Diesel technicians can work across multiple industries to keep diesel-powered vehicles operating at peak performance. Their skills can help keep the economy moving by ensuring delivery trucks can safely transport cargo and transit buses can deliver passengers from one location to the next. Whether they’re helping vehicles cruise around town or across the country, skilled diesel technicians can help businesses and communities continue to run smoothly.
Diesel technicians possess a nuanced understanding of modern diesel technology and diesel-powered equipment. Pursuing this career path offers a diverse range for career growth, opportunities to further their expertise, and a chance to solve new challenges each day.
What is the Role of a Diesel Technician?
Diesel technicians, or diesel service technicians, aim to keep diesel-powered equipment and vehicles safe for use. They perform preventative measures to extend the longevity of diesel-fueled equipment as well as troubleshoot and repair faulty parts. Once they make repairs, they’ll test the new parts to ensure they function correctly.
Diesel technicians can be found across several industries such as agriculture, construction, and commercial transportation. As such, their skills can be used to maintain:
- buses (school, transit, coach, etc.)
- construction equipment (forklifts, cranes, bulldozers, etc.)
- emergency services vehicles
- delivery vehicles and more
What’s the Difference Between a Diesel Technician and a Diesel Mechanic?
Although the terms diesel technician and diesel mechanic are often used interchangeably, they are different roles. Diesel mechanics focus more on the hands-on aspect of repairs. They disassemble and assemble parts to identify the underlying cause of the problem.They typically replace worn-out parts, perform transmissions repairs, rotate tires, and more.
Diesel technicians have a broader skill set that allows them to service mechanical and electrical systems. They understand how integrated systems within diesel-powered equipment and vehicles work, which can help identify the underlying cause of mechanical malfunctions. They can pursue additional training and certifications to service more specialized components like vehicle air conditioning systems.
How Do You Become a Diesel Technician in Texas?
Diesel technicians typically hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Although aspiring diesel technicians can learn their trade on the job, completing training at a diesel tech school, vocational school, or community college can help them become competitive applicants. A Diesel Heavy-Truck program offers a hands-on environment for aspiring technicians to develop relevant skills, apply them in different scenarios, and learn from industry-experienced professionals.
During a diesel training program, students can learn how to:
- identify and diagnose common issues impacting diesel engines
- repair and replace worn-down or damaged diesel engine components
- analyze electrical and mechanical systems
- disassemble and reassemble diesel engines
- inspect, diagnose, and repair drive train components
- perform repairs based on state and federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations
- understand basic electrical theory as it relates to heavy-truck repair and more
After completing a Diesel Heavy-Truck program, some aspiring technicians may choose to pursue National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 609 certifications. Additionally, some technicians may choose to pursue a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which allows them to safely operate Class A and B vehicles.
Neither the ASE certification nor a CDL are required to work as a diesel technician in Texas. Holding either credential can speak to a technician’s skill set and expertise, which could make them a more competitive applicant. Earning an EPA Section 609 certification allows them to properly handle, recycle, and dispose of refrigerants when repairing motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) systems.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Diesel Tech in Texas?
Diesel technician training can typically be completed in two years or less. This timeframe can vary depending on:
- if a student enrolls on a full- or part-time basis
- the school’s program length
- whether a graduate chooses to pursue additional certification
At South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT), students can train to become an entry-level diesel technician in as little as 13 months. During this time, students can learn how to inspect various systems found in diesel-fueled vehicles including, but not limited to:
- electrical
- brakes
- diesel emissions
- suspension
- steering and more
Are Diesel Technicians in Demand?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Texas employs the most diesel engine specialists and bus and truck mechanics across the nation. Additionally, the job outlook for diesel technicians is projected to remain steady between 2022 and 2032. If these projections continue to hold, roughly 24,300 job openings may be available each year.
Diesel technicians may find employment in dealerships and independent repair shops. Due to the rapidly changing nature of this field, diesel technicians may receive additional training on the job to update their skills. They may also choose to specialize in specific systems, vehicle types, and more.
Is It Worth Becoming a Diesel Technician?
A career as a diesel technician can be rewarding for those interested in a hands-on career servicing heavy-duty vehicles and equipment. Each day is filled with new problems to solve, opportunities for skill development, and a fast-paced work environment. It challenges technicians to continuously learn new skills and adapt their approach based on new information.
Depending on where a diesel technician chooses to work, they may have the chance to work on a wide range of vehicles. Additionally, since most programs can be completed in two years or less, aspiring technicians can enter the workforce pretty quickly.
Start Training to Become a Diesel Technician
Pursuing a career as a diesel technician offers a unique mix of hands-on training, continuous learning opportunities, and an interest in heavy-duty vehicles. With its projected steady career outlook and relatively short training periods, a career as a diesel technician can be a fast way to prepare for and enter the workforce. Whether an aspiring technician is drawn to this field because of its fast-paced nature or projected career stability, it can be a rewarding path filled with personal and professional fulfillment.
Interested in learning how our Diesel Heavy-Truck program can help you prepare for your new career? Call 866-480-9766 or submit this form for more information!
Disclaimer: Information within this blog is for general information purposes only. STVT does not assume or guarantee certification/licensures, specific job/career positions, income earning potential or salary expectations based on the programs offered at STVT. Career and program information statements in this blog do not guarantee that programs or other information mentioned are offered at STVT.
