Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Bus and truck mechanics diagnose and repair diesel engines and vehicle systems in buses, trucks, and other diesel-powered equipment. They work in repair shops, transit facilities, trucking companies, and marine settings. The job involves hands-on troubleshooting, replacing parts, and performing routine maintenance to keep vehicles operating safely.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves inspecting vehicles for mechanical problems, using diagnostic tools to identify issues, and repairing or replacing worn components like engines, transmissions, and brakes. Mechanics might spend several hours under a vehicle, then move to the shop floor to test repairs. Work includes scheduled maintenance, emergency breakdowns, and documentation of completed repairs in service records.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're detail-oriented and practical, preferring to work with your hands and follow established procedures. You're drawn to problem-solving with machines, understand how systems work, and take satisfaction in getting vehicles back in reliable condition. You work well independently and in structured environments.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $62,850 | $80,080 | $85,040 | 690 |
| Washington | $63,700 | $77,900 | $92,880 | 7,410 |
| Alaska | $62,450 | $75,580 | $83,210 | 860 |
| Maryland | $60,920 | $74,790 | $84,180 | 3,030 |
| California | $60,110 | $73,950 | $84,740 | 20,940 |
| Massachusetts | $59,920 | $73,270 | $84,410 | 4,870 |
| New Jersey | $59,740 | $72,340 | $79,850 | 8,160 |
| New Hampshire | $60,440 | $71,390 | $82,700 | 1,040 |
| Colorado | $59,300 | $70,480 | $79,780 | 4,600 |
| New York | $58,420 | $70,100 | $86,450 | 13,230 |
| Nevada | $58,240 | $68,410 | $80,950 | 1,990 |
| Connecticut | $60,300 | $67,300 | $81,160 | 2,860 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Automobile & Light Truck Certification - A9 Light Vehicle Diesel Engines — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist Certification - L2 (L2) — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Parts Specialist Certification - P1 Medium-Heavy Truck Parts Specialist (P1) — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Medium-Heavy Truck Certification - T2 Diesel Engines (T2) — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Automobile & Light Truck Certification - A8 Engine Performance — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Parts Specialist Certification - P2 Automobile Parts Specialist — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-3031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.