Diesel Mechanic Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $80,410 | |
| Massachusetts | $73,623 | |
| New York | $70,494 | |
| New Jersey | $69,142 | |
| Connecticut | $68,873 | |
| Washington | $68,228 | |
| California | $67,901 | |
| Alaska | $66,333 | |
| National Median | $58,970 |
How to Become a Diesel Mechanic
Diesel mechanics inspect, repair, and overhaul buses, trucks, and other vehicles with diesel engines.
Meet the education requirement
Most diesel mechanics enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the ASE diesel certification
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $38,920 and rises toward $86,096 with experience.
Diesel Mechanic salary: common questions
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make an hour?
The median hourly wage for diesel mechanics is $28.35, which works out to about $58,970 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays diesel mechanics the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for diesel mechanics at $80,410 per year — 36% above the national median of $58,970.
What is the salary range for diesel mechanics?
Most diesel mechanics earn between $38,920 and $86,096 per year. The middle 50% earn $47,766 to $73,123, with a median of $58,970.
Is becoming a Diesel Mechanic a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 4% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $58,970 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.