If you're interested in a career working on heavy vehicles, then you may want to learn how to become a diesel mechanic. This occupation requires a lot of hands-on work and involves repairing large pieces of machinery. To be a diesel mechanic, you will need a high-school diploma or GED. Additionally, you will need a commercial driver’s license. Once you have finished your education and earned your license you can get started on your dream job.
GED, or high school diploma
To become a diesel engine mechanic, you need to have a high-school diploma or GED. The process generally takes two years, including hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training. For a diesel mechanic program, you should follow the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation’s (NATEF) recommendations. While you complete your education, it is possible to choose to work as an entry-level employee. These positions offer hands-on training and are a great way for you to get started.
Earning an associate's diploma
An associate's in diesel mechanics can help you if your passion is diesel engines. This job is highly in demand and you can advance your education and make a career out of it. Diesel mechanics can specialize in different engines and mechanical systems. They can also repair over 70 diesel-powered overroad tractors.
Getting an ASE certification
You will be required to pass many tests as a diesel mechanic throughout your career. There are many certifications you can earn, but it is important to choose the one that is relevant to your expertise. There are many areas of expertise in the field. These include aircraft, boat engines, school buses engines, farm equipment, construction vehicles, and marine engines. Getting ASE certification can help you get a better job and more opportunities in your field.
How to get a commercial driver’s license
Working in a field that requires truck driving is an option. A diesel mechanic might be the right choice for you. A CDL lets you legally operate a truck even if it's only minor repairs. This license can also be a great way for employers to see that you are serious about this field.
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 on many different types of engines, such as airplanes and school buses. Many work with specific brands and are responsible for electrical systems on farm and construction equipment. There are many options for becoming a diesel mechanic. But getting a CDL in order to be a diesel technician is the easiest.
Job prospects
Diesel mechanics' job prospects are good. From 2016 to 2026, employment is expected to increase nine percent. This is more than the average for all occupations. The demand for diesel trucks to transport freight will grow. Electric cars will make diesel more attractive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (USBLS), more than 35,000 jobs are expected to be created between 2016-2026. Diesel mechanics will see more work as a result of increased truck usage.
FAQ
What should I know about car mechanics
For an auto mechanic job, you don’t have to be an expert in cars. The only thing you need is the ability to fix them. Most people start by fixing things like changing tires or fitting brake pads.
You will need to understand written instructions, read diagrams and follow the basic rules of good practices. You must also be able judge if parts need to replaced or repaired.
It's important to remember that you shouldn't attempt to repair vehicles without having received proper training and guidance. This is especially true if your job involves expensive parts like transmissions or engines.
Even though you don't need to be an expert on cars, it is important to understand the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and physical physics. This will include understanding the basic principles of engine operation and brake function.
It is also important to remember that you will need to be able to handle many situations. If your vehicle has been in an accident, you might need to be able to handle it. You will also need to be able to deal with accidents and breakdowns.
Finally, you need to be willing and able to quickly learn new skills. In order to be able diagnose and fix problems, you will also need to know how to do simple maintenance tasks such tightening bolts.
Do I need to have a degree to work as an automotive mechanic? Can I study part time?
A degree isn't necessary, but it certainly helps. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who have completed a complete degree. It shows you are dedicated and have worked hard to achieve your goals.
You can still study while working, however. Some universities permit students to do coursework during summer holidays and complete their studies later in a year. Others let students take classes part-time throughout the year.
Is it worth learning to be a mechanic?
The answer depends on what you are looking for in life. If money is your goal, then you can answer "yes". But if you are searching for meaning and purpose, then you should not answer this question.
If you don’t possess any mechanics skills, you won’t be able to do it. You won't become rich from it. You won't become famous. And it's unlikely to change your life.
You would need to spend years learning how to do everything properly. Also, you would need to hire someone else to fix it if it broke down. Most people avoid doing this. They find something they enjoy instead.
You can make a lot of money if you are looking to do well. The mechanic's profession is not the right place for you if it means that you will live a fulfilled life.
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)
- 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)
- 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 become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she works in car dealerships as well as auto shops, garages, and service centers. He/she helps customers fix their cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, lawn mowers, snowmobiles, tractors, trailers, farm equipment, planes, helicopters, jet skis, watercraft, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, golf carts, etc. An automotive technician must be capable of diagnosing problems and making repairs safely, accurately and efficiently.
An associate degree from a vocational school is required for anyone who wishes to become an automotive technician. After completing this program, he/she must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. You must attend one of the authorized testing sites to take the test. These locations are available online or through your local automotive dealer.
Before becoming an automotive technician, a candidate must pass the test. This process is different depending on where you live. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. Some states allow technicians to become licensed right away after receiving their license. While others wait until they have had at least six years of experience as an automotive technician.
To become an automotive technician, one must apply at a local dealership. New employees are usually apprentices when they first get hired. Apprenticeships typically 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. Classes are offered by most schools during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
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. You will also learn how to repair complicated electrical components, as well as how to remanufacture engines and rebuild transmissions. Because they have the experience and knowledge to do the job right, employers love hiring journeymen.
Candidates who pass the required exams are eligible for a license. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2010, nearly 1.7 Million automotive mechanic jobs were available. 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.
Many factors affect the automotive technician's salary, including location, education, experience, and employer type. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. An individual with a high school diploma can earn about $21,000 per annum. Associate's degrees earn approximately $24,000 per annum. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earned about $27,000 per year. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. A common trend is for salary increases to occur so a professional making less than $30,000 can reasonably expect to be earning $40,000 or more within a few years.