If you're interested in a career working on heavy vehicles, then you may want to learn how to become a diesel mechanic. This type of occupation is highly hands-on, and involves working on enormous pieces of machinery. You will need a high school diploma, or a GED to become a diesel mechanic. Also, you should get your commercial driver's permit. After you have completed your education and obtained your license, it is possible to start your dream job.
GED or high school diploma
To be a diesel technician, you will need a high school diploma. It usually takes two years to complete the process, which includes hours of classroom instruction and hands on training. You should follow the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) recommendations for a diesel mechanic's program. While you study, you might also consider working in an entry-level role. These positions offer hands-on training and are a great way for you to get started.
Earning an associate's diploma
An associate's degree is an excellent way to get started if you are passionate about diesel engines and wish to work on commercial vehicles. This job is highly in demand and you can advance your education and make a career out of it. Diesel mechanics are skilled in various engine and mechanical systems. They also work on over seventy diesel-powered over-road tractors.
Obtaining an ASE certification
You will pass numerous tests throughout your career as a Diesel mechanic. There are many certifications, but you should only select the ones that apply to your specific area of expertise. There are a variety of specialties within the field, including aircraft, marine engines, school bus engines, farm equipment, and construction vehicles. Getting ASE certified is a great way of increasing your chances of finding a job that pays well and offers more opportunities.
Obtaining a commercial driver’s permit
A diesel mechanic is a good choice if you want to work in a field that involves a lot of truck driving. Even if you are only doing minor repairs, a CDL will allow you to legally drive a truck. In addition, this license is a great way to add value to your resume and signal to employers that you're committed to this field.
How to get a CDL
Although you may be interested in an automotive mechanics degree, you may also be interested working as a diesel mechanic. Diesel mechanics work with engines in a variety vehicles, from planes to school buses. They also work on electrical systems for farm and construction equipment. Many are certified to work with particular brands. There are many routes to becoming a diesel mechanic. The easiest is to obtain a CDL.
Job prospects
The job outlook for diesel mechanics is good. There is a nine percent chance that employment will grow between 2016-2026, which is faster than for all other occupations. Increased freight transport by diesel trucks will drive up demand. Electric cars will increase demand for diesel trucks. This will cause the industry to continue to grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that between 2016-2026, there will be 35,000 additional jobs. More diesel mechanic jobs will be created by the increasing truck usage.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to be a truck mechanic?
While you may not have the formal qualifications to perform this job, your skills are well-rounded in working on engines and trucks. Your experience is invaluable as you know how to diagnose problems quickly and efficiently.
Additionally, you have a solid knowledge of diesel technology that will enable you to determine what parts are necessary to repair our vehicles.
What is the difference between an automotive technician and a mechanic?
Both are related, but they are not the same. A mechanic repairs cars and an automotive technician performs maintenance.
A mechanic should be able to do simple tasks quickly and have good manual dexterity. They must also be able to diagnose problems accurately and repair them effectively.
An automotive technician requires more technical skills than a mechanic. They must be capable of reading blueprints and using tools such as drills, wrenches, etc.
They must also be able perform complex procedures safely. They should also be familiarized with the different types of engines as well as electrical systems.
They must also be able comprehend how the various parts interrelate with one another.
This means that mechanics usually make less money than automotive technicians. There are many job opportunities in both.
What is the job description for a mechanic in a car?
There are three main areas of employment for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is the place most people begin to consider becoming mechanics. In fact, it's probably the easiest way to get started. You can either work at a shop owned by someone else or set up your own business.
If you choose to work at a store, you need to join a union. Once you're accepted into the union, you'll receive training from the union.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
Register with the government if you want to open your garage. After registering, you'll be required to meet certain standards.
You will receive a license to run your garage once you have registered.
Your license will permit you to sell spares parts and perform minor repairs. It will not permit you to fix major engine issues.
You will be expected to sell spare parts and also offer guidance and advice to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who specialize in one area of the car. They might specialize in one area, such as brakes and tires.
Some dealerships hire general mechanics to handle all aspects of car repair.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. Employers are able to choose which candidates will best suit their position.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates are already familiar with basic mechanics and can therefore learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. Instead, they tend to focus on providing high-quality service.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. As a result, these jobs are generally better paid than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages may not be better places to work. Many business owners prefer to own their businesses and not delegate the responsibility to others.
So you may find yourself working long hours without having any say over what happens during the day.
You should also expect to earn lower wages than if you were employed at a dealership.
There are many jobs that can be switched between. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
Or, if your dream is to work for an independent garage you can contact the owner directly.
Unfortunately, finding a new job can be difficult. There are plenty of other factors that influence how much you earn.
This could include the type of vehicle that you are working on and whether or not you charge an additional for labor.
Statistics
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to get certified as a mechanic
These certifications are for those who wish to be certified as automotive technicians. They provide an overview of all areas of auto repair, including engine diagnostics, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, steering, fuel injection, air conditioning, heating, exhaust, transmission, diagnostic tools, body repairs, collision damage repair, collision repair, paintless dent removal, motor vehicle emissions testing, and much more.
The 12-hour program includes three months of on the job training at a dealership participating. Students must complete a minimum of 60 clock hours of classroom study per semester and pass a written exam, including theory and practical questions. After completing the coursework, students can take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence’s (ASE) state examination. For employment as an automotive technician, certification by ASE is necessary.