What is it like to be a diesel mechanic? This article will give a brief overview of the job. Learn about the training and career opportunities available in this area. Continue reading to learn more about the job. Here are some of the most important characteristics of a diesel mechanic. It is possible to expect a lot from your job.
Job duties
A diesel mechanic's job entails maintaining and repairing diesel-powered vehicles. They are responsible to perform routine maintenance and repairs as well troubleshooting problems in order for vehicles to run smoothly. They also inspect engines and other mechanical equipment, such as transmissions, brakes systems, steering mechanisms, etc. To complete their tasks, they use power tools and laptop computers. They may also work overtime and on evening shifts. In some cases they might also conduct diagnostic tests of cars.
Diesel mechanics must be organized and efficient at communicating with others. He or she must perform diagnostic and repair work on vehicles, and test drive them to gauge their performance. He or she will also need to maintain service trucks and comply with a detailed checklist. A diesel mechanic must be physically fit. He or she must be able lift at least 150 lbs and can use a wide range of tools and equipment to accomplish a variety maintenance tasks.
Training is necessary
It's a lucrative career that is rewarding and fulfilling to be a diesel mechanic. According to BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), there are currently 281,300 positions for diesel mechanics. This field is expected to see a 3% increase in employment between now and 2029. You can expect to earn moderately in this field, but your earnings can rise with experience and education. Before you apply for this job, it is important that you understand the responsibilities of the position and what the salary is. This job requires great drive and technical skills. But, to succeed it often requires education and certifications.
A high school diploma is required for entry-level diesel mechanic work. While a high school diploma is not necessary to be successful, it is beneficial. This career has both certificate- and degree programs. The certificate programs are focused on the practical skills required for the job and not on general education. While this is the fastest path to getting a job as a mechanic, it limits your potential for advancement. Therefore, you should consider the type of program you would like to take.
Outlook for the Employment Market
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for diesel mechanics/service technicians' employment will rise by 3% in the next decade. This increase is slightly slower that the average for all occupations but it is still more than average. Due to increased truck freight, diesel mechanics will see an increase in demand. Also, more trucks and vehicles are likely to require regular maintenance and repairs. This will increase the demand for diesel mechanics.
Although the number of jobs available to diesel mechanics isn't high, they are still plentiful. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics diesel mechanics in transportation are expected to have a good job outlook. In 2019, 87,300 diesel mechanics worked in the transportation industry, but experts predict that the number will increase to 90,500 by 2029. That represents an increase of 3.8% in ten years. Technicians will have more advancement opportunities with the growing number of positions in the industry.
You have many career options
Considering a career as a diesel mechanic? This profession has plenty of career options, and you could earn upwards of $40,000 per year. Diesel mechanics can work on all kinds of machinery, including industrial equipment and autos. Your technical responsibilities could vary depending on what industry you work in. For example, a marine diesel engine mechanic is much different from a diesel truck mechanic.
You will need to take a certification course to become a diesel mechanic. On-the-job training is available for those who don't hold certification. To be certified as a diesel mechanic, they must pass an exam. Some employers require that their employees obtain ASE certification after two years of experience. Others might require diesel mechanics to obtain a commercial driver’s licence.
FAQ
Do I need to have a degree to work as an automotive mechanic? Do I have to study part-time?
While a degree is not required, it does help. Most employers prefer candidates who have studied for a full degree rather than those who haven't. It shows that your efforts have been put in and you have succeeded.
But, this doesn't mean you have to stop working while studying. Some universities allow students to complete coursework over the summer holidays and finish their studies later in the year. Other universities permit students to take classes part-time during the school year.
What is the average time it takes to become a mechanic?
It takes years of practice and experience to become an expert mechanic. Working under the guidance of a professional mechanic is the best way to learn how repair cars.
You will have to spend time in a garage learning about cars and mechanics. You'll need to study mechanical engineering books on mechanics and car design.
Additionally, you will need to attend an auto school.
The most important thing to do is start early. Do not wait to learn automotive technology. Start studying automotive technology now to become a mechanic.
Is it difficult to find a job as a mechanic in the automotive industry?
Yes, it's possible. Many garages list their vacancies online. Many people simply apply for the fun of it. Try applying to a few jobs and seeing if the garages accept student applications. Ask your friends and family to recommend anyone in the field. They might be willing to recommend someone.
Is it worth being a mechanic.
The answer to this question depends on what you want from life if you are looking for money, then yes, but if you're looking for meaning and purpose, then no.
You don't need to be a mechanic if you don't know how. You won't become rich from it. It won't make your name famous. It is unlikely that you will be made famous.
It would take you years to learn how to do everything correctly. Then you'd still have to pay someone else to fix your car when it breaks down. That's why most people don't bother doing it at all. They find something they enjoy instead.
In conclusion, if money is your main goal, you should go ahead. You can't live a meaningful existence if your goal is to make a living in the mechanic's business.
Statistics
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
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How To
How to Become an Auto Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she works at car dealerships, auto shops, garages, service centers, etc. He/she works with customers to repair their cars and trucks, ATVs or snowmobiles. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
To become an automotive technician, a person must first earn an associate's degree from a vocational college. After completing this program, he/she will need to pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence's (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. There are two sections to the ASE certification test. The first section tests your mechanical skills, while the second tests your practical knowledge. You will need to attend an authorized testing site in order to pass the test. These locations can be found online, or by contacting your local car dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. This process can vary depending on where the applicant lives. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. Some states permit technicians to work immediately after they are granted their license. Others require them to wait at least six consecutive months before they can be licensed.
To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. Apprenticeship programs usually last three years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes, if necessary.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen can spend up to five years learning how major systems work, including transmissions, differentials. They also learn how to adjust steering gear and suspensions. They learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Many employers prefer to hire Journeymen because they understand the job well.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 1.7 million available jobs in the automotive mechanic field in 2010. This number is expected to increase by 18% between 2009 and 2020. If a candidate decides to open his/her own shop, he/she should prepare to invest many thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies.
The salary of an automotive technician will depend on many factors including where you live, your education level, experience and the type of employer. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. Associate's degrees earn approximately $24,000 per annum. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earned about $27,000 per year. Masters' degree holders earn around $32,000 per annum. Salary increases are common, so a professional who earns less than $30,000 now could reasonably expect to earn $40,000 or more in just a few years.