Diesel Service Technician

DIESEL SERVICE TECHNICIAN: Diesel service technicians specialize in the maintenance and repair of large commercial vehicles, predominantly diesel-powered, such as semi-trucks and buses. Their responsibilities encompass inspecting various vehicle components, including brake systems, steering mechanisms, transmissions, and engines. They are tasked with repairing or replacing defective parts and conducting routine maintenance activities like changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires. Additionally, diesel service technicians are skilled in working on electrical and exhaust systems. Employment opportunities for these technicians are commonly found in transportation companies, public transit groups, or government agencies.

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HEAVY EQUIPMENT DIESEL TECHNICIAN:  Heavy equipment diesel technicians specialize in the maintenance and repair of vehicles and machinery used in farming, construction, and rail transportation. Their responsibilities include diagnosing mechanical issues using computerized tools, maintaining and repairing hydraulic and electrical systems, overhauling machinery, and replacing faulty parts. There are different types of heavy equipment diesel technicians, such as agricultural diesel technicians who focus on farming equipment, mobile equipment diesel technicians servicing construction and mining equipment, and locomotive diesel technicians handling train engines and railcars. These technicians may find employment opportunities with rental and leasing companies, government agencies, construction groups, or farm equipment wholesalers.  

SMALL-ENGINE DIESEL TECHNICIAN:   Small-engine diesel technicians specialize in working on various sizes and types of diesel engines commonly found in off-road vehicles and power equipment, including camping generators, garden tractors, snowmobiles, motorboats, and dirt bikes. Their job responsibilities typically involve discussing equipment issues and maintenance plans with customers, performing routine engine maintenance such as lubricating parts and replacing spark plugs, repairing or replacing broken parts, re-installing components and engines after repairs, and adjusting components based on desired specifications. Small-engine diesel technicians commonly find employment in repair shops.

The ideal diesel technician possesses attention to detail, communication skills, technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and a drive to succeed, ensuring success in this dynamic and growing industry. The evolving nature of technology emphasizes the importance of education in this field. To become a diesel technician, individuals can start their training through programs like those offered at Mountainland Technical College or UVU Diesel Technology programs. High school students can take automotive, welding, and diesel technology classes and receive concurrent enrollment credit or enroll at MTECH while still in high school. While on-the-job experience and apprenticeships are viable paths, attending a school can provide industry-specific skills in a shorter timeframe and prepare for ASE examinations. Educational requirements vary among employers, but having a high school diploma or GED is essential. Diesel technicians often take additional steps, such as completing training programs, gaining manufacturer-specific training, and earning ASE certification. 

Earning Potential Averages For Diesel Service Technicians: (Jobs.Utah.Gov)