Replacing gasoline engines in commercial applications, diesel-powered vehicles transport supplies to corporations and retailers and increasingly power consumer cars.
With the trucking industry being an essential component to America’s infrastructure, diesel mechanics and technicians have various job opportunities available to them across the nation.
Diesel mechanics repair and maintain diesel engines in trucks, trains, private vehicles, and buses, ensuring the vehicles run at optimal efficiency.
Individuals who wish to obtain a position as a diesel mechanic in Washington need to complete the required educational training in order to be successful in this career.
Educational Prerequisites
All colleges require potential students to meet certain educational criteria before acceptance into the school is approved.
Most diesel mechanic programs in Washington require students to fulfill specific educational prerequisites, such as earning their high school diploma or GED, in order to be considered eligible for the program.
Some even require students to have completed additional courses in math, science, and English.
Educational Requirements
In order to become successful as a diesel mechanic in Washington, individuals need to complete the necessary training and educational coursework. Many companies offer special certificate programs that teach new hires the techniques and skills needed to become a diesel mechanic in that particular industry.
To ascertain a higher paying position at a company in Washington, individuals can enroll in a technical or vocational school to gain both educational experience and hands-on experience.
When researching potential diesel mechanic programs, individuals need to ensure the school is accredited through the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), preparing them for further certification in this field.
Associate of Science in Diesel Technology
Depending on the desired position, aspiring diesel mechanics can earn an Associate of Science in Diesel Technology, which takes approximately two years to complete.
During the classroom instruction, students learn troubleshooting techniques and practical skills for properly maintaining diesel-powered vehicles, and hands-on training teaches students how to effectively diagnose mechanical malfunctions and implement repair procedures on diesel-powered engines.
- AC systems
- Power trains
- Hydraulics
- Electrical systems
- Power transmissions
- Heavy duty brakes
- Diesel engine technology
- Fuel systems
Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology
For those whose goal is to ascertain a managerial position in the mechanic industry, earning a Bachelor of Science in Diesel Technology offers the necessary training in diesel technology and management courses to prepare them for leadership opportunities at an upstanding company.
A bachelor’s degree program takes a minimum of four years to complete, training students in the core fundamentals of diesel techniques and repair methodologies. Management coursework can cover various subjects, such as natural sciences, mathematics, and humanities.
Students will also be required to take the following courses in diesel technology:
- Welding theory
- Heavy duty automatics
- Diesel shop management
- AC systems
- Diesel engines lab
- Diesel fuel systems
- Diesel electrical systems
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
Certification in Washington
According to Washington’s law, diesel mechanics do not have to earn their certification in this field in order to legally practice in the state, but more and more employers are requiring their candidates to obtain further certification in diesel technology, especially if the available job calls for specialized training.
Diesel mechanics can earn their certification by taking the applicable exam offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which certifies the mechanic in a specialized sector of this industry, such as:
- Steering systems
- Brakes
- Preventative maintenance
- Electrical systems
Individuals who pass the examination prove that they fully comprehend the national standards in diesel technology repair and methodologies, giving them an additional competitive edge for potential employers and allowing them to find a higher paying position in their specialized field.
Diesel mechanics who are certified in diesel technology need to re-test every five years, which ensures they remain up to date with the latest procedures and technologies.
Career Outlook
Because the trucking industry is crucial to today’s economy, diesel mechanics can count on a stable employment expectation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 5,770 diesel mechanics were employed in the state of Washington, with statistics showing an expected employment increase of 35,200 in this industry by 2020.
Depending on the available position, company location, educational training, and previous experience, diesel mechanics can make anywhere between $26,820 and $63,250 per year.
The BLS reports that the annual mean wage of a diesel mechanic in Washington is approximately $52,200, with the highest paying industries being:
- Deep Sea Transportation – $79,250
- Federal Executive Branch – $68,800
- Courier and Express Delivery – $59,740
- Electric Power Generation – $59,450
- Scientific Research and Development Services – $59,310
From self-owned garages to large mechanic corporations, diesel mechanic work in a variety of settings. In order to increase one’s chances of finding employment in Washington’s mechanic industry, individuals should complete the educational training and certification they need to open up various employment opportunities.