For anyone even thinking about being a diesel technician this is a definite must-read.

The Job
First off if you’re going to be a diesel technician you should know that diesel engines work on some of the highest power engines out there. For example a diesel engine would be found in most large trucks, trains, and buses.

As a diesel technician you would be working on and repairing such engines but you also may work on other kinds of machines like high powered tractors, cranes, and bulldozers. The job is becoming much more intricate and there is more knowledge necessary to be a diesel technician today so the value of these jobs is increasing.

You must be good with your hands because you will be using all kinds of high powered tools as well as welding and flame-cutting tools at times.

Schooling
Most employers do look for graduates of some kind of training program which one can find in some community colleges and trade and vocational schools. The program is normally 6 months- 2 years. You will not just be in the classroom. This is definitely a hands-on learning profession. There are even some employers who may hire you without formal schooling but for that on the job training for at least a few years is necessary.

Certification
Those diesel technicians who are driving the larger vehicles will need commercial licenses. There is a national certification but many employers actually do not require it. Attaining this certification though can only help you whether it is to expand your knowledge or to help get a job as a diesel technician. There are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) administered exams which the applicant must pass as well as showing proof of two years work experience to gain certification. To retain this certification the technician must be retested every five years.

Job Outlook
The need for diesel technicians is going to increase over the upcoming years. As vehicles are replaced to burn cleaner fuel there will be more work for diesel technicians.

Earnings‘
The advantage of this career is that it is extremely specialized so once you receive the proper training you will really be important to whoever you work for. This is why diesel technicians are well paid. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Dept. of Labor the median hourly earnings of a diesel engine specialist including incentive pay were $18.11 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $14.48 and $22.07 an hour. So as you can see if you are good with your hands and like electronics as this industry is starting to head in that direction you can have a well paid career as a diesel technician.