About This Career Path
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile or marine diesel engines.
Transportation, Logistics & Distribution
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines.
Transportation, Logistics & Distribution Industry
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Average
$51,640
ANNUAL
$24.83
HOURLY
Entry Level
$36,760
ANNUAL
$17.67
HOURLY
Mid Level
$48,480
ANNUAL
$23.31
HOURLY
Expert Level
$66,450
ANNUAL
$31.95
HOURLY
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
5,750
Projected job openings through 2030
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Job Titles
Entry Level
JOB TITLE
Trainee
Mid Level
JOB TITLE
Diesel Technician
Expert Level
JOB TITLE
Master Technician/Service Manager
Supporting Programs
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
01
Use handtools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.
02
Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
03
Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
04
Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
05
Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
06
Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
07
Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
08
Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
09
Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
10
Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
KNOWLEDGE
Transportation
KNOWLEDGE
Education and Training
KNOWLEDGE
English Language
KNOWLEDGE
Public Safety and Security
SKILL
Repairing
SKILL
Troubleshooting
SKILL
Operations Monitoring
SKILL
Equipment Maintenance
SKILL
Critical Thinking
ABILITY
Near Vision
ABILITY
Arm-Hand Steadiness
ABILITY
Finger Dexterity
ABILITY
Manual Dexterity
ABILITY
Control Precision
Transportation, Logistics & Distribution
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