With today’s economy, the first question on anyone’s mind is generally related to salary. Will I make a decent living if I choose a trade in diesel mechanics? Will it be enough to support my family? Will the cost of training be worth the salary? Is there job security? Is it a wise choice? The answer to all those questions is “yes,” however, you’re not going to get rich, by no means, but you will be able to provide an honest living for yourself and family, all while helping others.
The job outlook for diesel mechanics is very positive. Due to the excessive freight that is shipped continually across our country, the BLS reports that the field is expected to grow by 5% between 2018 to 2028, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Job security is almost assured for those with proper training and applicable certifications.
Like any other career, you will need to start at the bottom and work your way up. Usually, most who begin their career in mechanics of any kind start in a home garage. Although that type of hands-on training is helpful, formal training from a reputable school is imperative to take advantage of the best salary. On-campus training is very common to find in your local community; however, some trade schools do offer online classes, as well.
After you complete your training, a diesel mechanic will typically start work doing essential maintenance and routine repairs, sometimes in an apprenticeship capacity. The typical starting salary for this trade is approximately $30,000 or less per year, for those with less than five years of experience.
As you progress, you will be expected to gain ASE certification. These acknowledgements will help you gain the confidence needed to perform your job duties with knowledge and skill… and will increase your wallet size, as well. The average salary for an ASE certified diesel mechanic is approximately $46,360 annually, as of May 2017. In addition, with increased experience, you can earn upwards of $70,000 per year, depending on job location, master certifications, and responsibilities.
If you would like to learn more about this trade field, please see our picks for the Best Online Schools in Diesel Mechanics.