09/03/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/03/2024 11:28
Why do many students seek out an accredited trade schools to learn the diesel mechanic trade? Because they know that hands-on skilled careers like diesel mechanics cannot be outsourced and that these skills are in demand. For those who want to turn their passion for diesel engines and trucks into an essential technical job that that must be done locally, then a diesel technician training program can be very beneficial for them. Statistics certainly support this scenario: more than 24,000 diesel technician positions are projected to be available across the nation every year from now until 20321, making this a steady career path to consider.
New technicians entering the field might not be able to predict what each workday will be like, so this job description can serve as a guide to better define the typical day on the job at a diesel maintenance facility.
You'll draw on every skill that you master during training and put them to good use during your daily tasks. While the work of a diesel technician is often physically demanding, the technicians who work on this essential type of equipment really enjoy what they do. Each day on the job brings new challenges to solve, and drawing on your technical know-how and skills to find solutions allows for a sense of satisfaction that technicians get from successfully completing a technical task.
The daily routine for a diesel technician will depend on the type of job you accept. And this is where it gets very interesting. Diesel power is used in so many industries that the applications seem endless.
This is why the diesel mechanic is considered an essential job. Every industry and employer will offer a slightly different daily routine, but you will use the same technical skills regardless of the application.
A diesel technician should have a solid foundational theory in the diesel power cycle, technical proficiency, mechanical aptitude, and strong problem-solving skills. Technicians need an in-depth understanding of the diesel engine, its components and ancillary equipment, electrical systems, and computerized diagnostic tools. Skills should also include:
In summary, the diesel mechanic job description involves a mix of hands-on technical tasks and diagnostic work. From fixing engine components to conducting emissions tests, the diesel mechanic's responsibilities are as diverse as the applications and industries they are used in.
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement. Many employers look for candidates that have completed diesel technician training at a reputable vocational school. This is how a prospective employer knows that the candidate being considered has a certain level of understanding and skill needed to enter the field.
The right candidate can receive training through either an apprenticeship or a technical school. While the former is possible, the latter offers a wider exposure to new technology, industry tools and software and the many nuances that are gained only through learning from a combination of classroom, simulator2, and hands-on technical training.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers various certifications, including the Diesel Engines (T2) certification. This certification can enhance your career prospects as it certifies a specific level of competency. It is also beneficial to earn a commercial driver's license (CDL), as road testing for diagnosis and quality control are an important part of the job.
The diesel technician is a key component in keeping society powered safely, and the helps maintain a smoothly operating economy. This is why it should be considered an essential occupation. Lincoln Tech's diesel technician programs can give students the necessary theoretical education combined with hands-on training in an on-the-job like setting. This training is offered at six Lincoln Tech campuses.
References:
1 National Center for O*NET Development. National Employment Trends: 49-3031.00 - Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists. O*NET OnLine. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/49-3031.00?g=Go
2 "Air Brake Troubleshooting Demonstration Using the Bendix EC-60 ABS/ATC/ESP Advanced System Trainer", at the Lincoln Tech campus in Indianapolis, IN. Video demonstration: https://www.lincolntech.edu/media/automotive/diesel-technology/air-brake-troubleshooting-demonstration-using-bendix-ec-60