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Bus & Truck Mechanics & Diesel Engine Specialists

Also called: Bus Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Diesel Technician, Mechanic

What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
  • Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
  • Use handtools such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, and precision instruments, as well as power tools such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, and jacks and hoists.
  • Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
  • mechanical
  • product and service development
Transportation
  • movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Business
  • customer service
  • management
Safety and Government
  • public safety and security

Skills

Basic Skills
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • talking to others
Problem Solving
  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Hand and Finger Use
  • hold or move items with your hands
  • put together small parts with your fingers
Ideas and Logic
  • notice when problems happen
  • use rules to solve problems
Controlled Movement
  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
Hearing and Speech
  • tell the difference between sounds

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Integrity

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Facilities management software
  • Computerized maintenance management system software CMMS
  • Shop management software
Analytical or scientific software
  • Cummins Insite
  • Engine diagnostic software
Spreadsheet software
  • Microsoft Excel Hot Technology

Education

Education: (rated 3 of 5)
high school diploma/GED or
no high school diploma/GED
usually needed

Examples of Registered Apprenticeship programs include:

  • Bus Maintenance Technician
  • Machinist, Marine Engine
  • Mechanic, Industrial Truck
  • Oil-Field Equipment Mechanic
  • Tractor Mechanic

Job Outlook

Average Outlook
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
Salary
$46,360
$30,400
$69,870

Green Green jobs will change the work and skills needed.

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