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Diesel Technician Degree - Online and Campus Programs

How excited are you about your new car? Take a minute, though, and think about how it got to you. It probably arrived on a truck, and that truck was probably diesel-fueled. So, you owe an enthusiastic thank you to the diesel service technician that made it all happen.

What a Diesel Engine Technician Does

The diesel engine technician is the diesel doctor. His or her patients are buses, trucks, locomotives and any other machine that operates using a diesel engine. Whether via diesel engine technician training or experience, this tech must be an expert in diesel engine technology, because some of his duties include:

repairing electrical systems
maintaining equipment
adjusting engine functions
complying with environmental regulations

Diesel Engine Technology Training

Given that these professionals are dealing with substantial machines, employers prefer hiring graduates from diesel engine technician programs. Many community colleges and trade schools offer a diesel engine technician degree. This typically involves:

six months to two years of diesel engine technician classes
thirty hours per week of hands-on training
technology or laboratory courses

While a diesel engine technician certificate is preferred, a state commercial driver's license is mandatory.

Salary Potential and Job Outlook for a Diesel Engine Technician

A diesel engine technician makes approximately $18.94/ hour. There is also potential to receive commission, which is usually derived from the labor cost charged to the customer.Many technicians are members of a union, which can offer insurance options and employment protection. Employment is expected to grow by about 6% in the next decade. Given that diesel fuel is considered more efficient and durable than its competitors, there could be new job opportunities in the near future.