A diesel mechanic makes between $45,000 and $70,000 per year in the United States. Entry-level positions start around $40,000, while experienced mechanics can earn over $75,000 annually. Wages vary based on experience, location, and industry, with higher pay in transit, heavy equipment, and specialized repair sectors.
How Much Does a Diesel Mechanic Make on Average?
The average diesel mechanic salary in the U.S. is $60,640 per year. That’s about $29.15 per hour, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Whether it’s repairing school buses or keeping freight trucks running, diesel mechanics keep America moving—and their pay reflects it.
Quick snapshot:
- Entry-level techs: Start around $40,000/year
- Mid-career mechanics: Earn $55,000–$65,000/year
- Experienced diesel techs: Pull in $75,000+
- Top-tier specialists: Push past $90,000, sometimes six figures
These numbers vary depending on factors like certifications, specialization, and industry demand. Diesel mechanics play an important role in industries like logistics, transit, and power generation sectors that pay well for reliability and expertise.
Pay by Experience: From Rookie to Pro
More time in the trade = more money in your pocket. Diesel technician salaries grow steadily with hands-on experience, especially if you’ve got a strong work ethic and learn to handle advanced diagnostics and newer diesel systems.
Here’s how the numbers stack up:
| Experience Level | Hourly Pay | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $19–$22 | $40,000–$45,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–7 years) | $23–$29 | $48,000–$60,000 |
| Senior Tech (8–15 years) | $30–$38 | $62,000–$79,000 |
| Master Tech / Specialist | $40–$58+ | $85,000–$120,000+ |
Diesel engine specialists who’ve earned their stripes or better yet, an ASE Master certification—command higher pay thanks to their proven skills in repairing and maintaining internal combustion engines and diesel vehicles with efficiency.
Where You Work Matters: Location = Paycheck
Location makes a huge difference in what diesel mechanics earn. You’ll see much higher salaries in cities like San Francisco or New York, where demand is high and the cost of living drives up wages.
Diesel Mechanic Location & Salary Comparison Table
| Location/Source | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (Median, BLS) | $29.15 | $60,640 | National average as of May 2024 |
| New York, NY (Indeed) | $38.34–$39.47 | ~$79,747* | Includes ~$7,250/year in overtime |
| New York, NY (ZipRecruiter) | $30.93 | ~$64,334* | Based on April 2025 stats |
| Florida (Salary.com) | $23.00 | $49,591 | Wide range: $43,835–$56,495 |
| San Francisco, CA (Lincoln Tech) | – | Up to $83,370 | High living costs push wages higher |
| NY–NJ Metro (Lincoln) | – | $72,500 | Dense job market, unionized shops common |
| Midwest (Reddit, experienced tech) | – | $65,000–$90,000 | Skilled techs, company-dependent |
| Oregon (Reddit, Fleet Tech) | $31.50 | $89,000–$102,000 | Overtime-heavy workload |
| California (Union, Reddit) | $58.00 | $120,640+ | Includes benefits and scheduled raises |
| Location/Source | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (Median, BLS) | $29.15 | $60,640 | National average as of May 2024 |
| New York, NY (Indeed) | $38.34–$39.47 | ~$79,747* | Includes ~$7,250/year in overtime |
| New York, NY (ZipRecruiter) | $30.93 | ~$64,334* | Based on April 2025 stats |
| Florida (Salary.com) | $23.00 | $49,591 | Wide range: $43,835–$56,495 |
| San Francisco, CA (Lincoln Tech) | – | Up to $83,370 | High living costs push wages higher |
| NY–NJ Metro (Lincoln) | – | $72,500 | Dense job market, unionized shops common |
| Midwest (Reddit, experienced tech) | – | $65,000–$90,000 | Skilled techs, company-dependent |
| Oregon (Reddit, Fleet Tech) | $31.50 | $89,000–$102,000 | Overtime-heavy workload |
| California (Union, Reddit) | $58.00 | $120,640+ | Includes benefits and scheduled raises |
Bottom line? Diesel mechanics in metro areas often earn 20–50% more than their rural counterparts. But rural regions might balance lower pay with less stress and a lower cost of living.
Industry: What You Work On Affects What You Take Home
Not all diesel mechanic jobs pay the same. You’ll see better pay in industries where downtime costs companies big money—freight, heavy equipment, power generation, and transit systems.
Highest-paying diesel mechanic sectors:
- Public transit systems
- Fleet logistics companies
- Oil and gas contractors
- Heavy construction
- Railroad and marine services
These employers need diesel technicians who can troubleshoot diesel engines, electrical systems, and diesel equipment fast. Specialized diesel repair roles come with higher salaries, and often better benefits like tuition reimbursement or health insurance.
Certifications: Credentials That Pay Off
Certifications = more money. It’s that simple. Diesel mechanics who invest in ASE certification, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), or manufacturer-specific training often boost their salary by 10–25%.
High-value credentials:
- ASE Master Diesel Technician
- Cummins, Detroit Diesel, CAT certification
- CDL (especially Class A)
- EPA HVAC Certification
- DOT Brake Inspector Certification
These certifications prove your skills in diesel repair, especially for diesel engine diagnostics and complex electronic systems. They also make you eligible for managerial positions or lead tech roles two paths to higher salaries and better job stability.
Career Outlook: Diesel Mechanics Are in Demand
Diesel techs aren’t going anywhere. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% job growth rate for diesel service technicians by 2033. That’s around 11,000 new job openings, mostly from retirements and increased demand for fleet maintenance.
Why? Because diesel engines power a huge share of America’s economy from school buses to mining equipment. These engines are durable, efficient, and not easily replaced by electric systems, especially in heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment.
Career growth paths:
- Lead Technician
- Fleet Supervisor
- Diagnostic Specialist
- Shop Manager
- Mobile Diesel Mechanic
Hands-on experience, continuous training, and specialization open doors fast. Many start with a high school diploma, attend vocational school, and gain hands-on experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs.
So, What Can a Diesel Mechanic Really Expect to Make?
Most diesel mechanics earn $45,000–$70,000 annually, but smart career moves—like joining a union, specializing in fleet systems, or picking up overtime—can push you into six-figure territory.
Key salary boosters:
- Experience level
- Union membership
- Location
- Industry
- Certifications
If you’re willing to work long hours, invest in additional training, and pick up specialized skills, your earning potential climbs fast. It’s one of the few skilled trades where the ceiling is high and the path is clear
Typical Questions
Below you can read Q & As we typically get asked.
How does overtime impact a diesel mechanic’s annual earnings?
Overtime can add $10,000+ per year. In Oregon, mechanics earning $31.50/hour reported $89,000–$102,000/year by working 60–70 hours per week.
Do union diesel mechanics earn more?
Yes. Union jobs in California pay $58/hour and often exceed $120,000/year with benefits like health insurance and scheduled raises.
Are mobile diesel mechanics paid more?
Usually, yes. Some earn over $100,000 annually thanks to travel, on-site repairs, and urgent service calls for heavy equipment.
Do job types like heavy equipment vs. trucks—change pay?
Definitely. Mechanics who work on heavy machinery, ag equipment, or advanced fleet systems can earn $130,000–$150,000/year with experience and overtime.
Do job types like heavy equipment vs. trucks—change pay?
Definitely. Mechanics who work on heavy machinery, ag equipment, or advanced fleet systems can earn $130,000–$150,000/year with experience and overtime.
Are there big pay gaps between regions?
Yes. Diesel mechanics in New York or San Francisco can earn 30–60% more than those in rural areas, thanks to demand and cost of living.
How can diesel mechanics increase their salary?
Certifications, specialization, and leadership roles lead to higher pay. Advancing to fleet manager or lead technician significantly boosts salary potential.
