Want to learn more about a career in diesel repair and maintenance? Read through our background information on diesel technician careers and contact one of our featured diesel mechanic schools today.

The diesel engine is the workhorse powering the Nation's trucks and buses, because it delivers more power and is more durable than its gasoline-burning counterpart. Diesel-powered engines also are becoming more prevalent in light vehicles, including pickups and other work trucks. *

Diesel service technicians and mechanics, also known as bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, repair and maintain the diesel engines that power transportation equipment such as heavy trucks, buses, and locomotives. Some diesel technicians and mechanics also work on heavy vehicles and mobile equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors, and combines. A small number of technicians repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks, or boats. *

Opportunities are expected to be good for persons who complete diesel mechanic school training programs.

Employers prefer to hire graduates of formal training programs because these workers often have a head start in training and are able to quickly advance to the journey level. (Generally, diesel technicians need at least 3 to 4 years of on-the-job experience to qualify as journey-level diesel technicians.)

Also, diesel maintenance is becoming increasingly complex, as more electronic components are used to control engine operation. For example, microprocessors regulate and manage fuel timing, increasing engine efficiency. In modern shops, diesel service technicians use hand-held computers to diagnose problems and adjust engine functions. * *

Voluntary certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is recognized as the standard of achievement for diesel technicians and mechanics. Technicians may be certified as Master Heavy-Duty Truck technicians or in specific areas of heavy-duty truck repair. Diesel technicians may opt for ASE certification as schoolbus technicians.

For certification in each area, a technician must pass one or more of the ASE-administered exams and present proof of 2 years of relevant hands-on work experience. Two years of relevant formal training may be substituted for up to 1 year of the work experience requirement. *