Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialist

Loading state data...

Loading state data...

  Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Occupations

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialist

Also Called: Bus Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Diesel Technician (Diesel Tech), Fleet Mechanic, General Repair Mechanic, Heavy Truck Mechanic, Service Technician, Trailer Mechanic, Transit Mechanic, Truck Mechanic, Bus Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Diesel Technician (Diesel Tech), Fleet Mechanic, General Repair Mechanic, Heavy Truck Mechanic, Service Technician, Trailer Mechanic, Transit Mechanic, Truck Mechanic

What they do

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile or marine diesel engines.

$39,020
Starting Salary (2023)
$58,970
Median Salary (2023)
0.9%
Projected Job Growth
285,030
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
Use handtools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.
Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Analytical Thinking
Initiative
Integrity
Self-Control

What key skills are needed for this job?

Troubleshooting
Repairing
Operations Monitoring
Equipment Maintenance
Quality Control Analysis
Critical Thinking

Expected Knowledge

Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Common Activities

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

More Info

What can I do with this major? Logo

Explore 106 major profiles, common career paths and strategies to maximize opportunities.

Visit Site
My Next Move logo

Search career information in detail by keywords, browse by industry, or via your interests.

Visit Site
Career OneStop Logo

Explore career options, find training and education, plan for your job search and find local help and services.

Visit Site
BLS OOH logo

The Occupational Outlook Handbook - browse occupations and resources and explore occupation groups.

Visit Site
O*NET logo

The nation's primary source of occupational information. Complete data and information breakdowns for all careers.

Visit Site