How to become a bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialist

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.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists do

• Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
• Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
• Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
• 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.
• Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
• Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Speaking
• Active Listening
• Monitoring
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies
• Writing

Is bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialist a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 21% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Hawaii $80,080
• Washington $77,900
• Alaska $75,580
• Maryland $74,790
• California $73,950

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.