How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Connecticut

Diesel engines power large vehicles such as buses and trucks, and they also power heavy equipment such as cranes and bulldozers. If you’re interested in understanding how diesel-powered engines run and how to maintain and repair them, consider a career as a diesel mechanic.

When you work as a diesel service technician and mechanic, you would inspect, maintain and repair diesel engines of all types. A career as a diesel mechanic in Connecticut can be an interesting and rewarding field that’s in high demand.

Requirements in Connecticut for Becoming a Diesel Mechanic

Becoming a diesel mechanic in Connecticut starts with obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent. Training to become a diesel mechanic can be done while in high school at certain vocational schools or at community colleges. Going on to complete postsecondary education isn’t a requirement, but because of the increasing complexity of diesel engines, many employers are more likely to select applicants who have proved their dedication and expertise by obtaining formal training.

Training to be a Diesel Mechanic in Connecticut

Training programs can help you to be as competitive as possible in the job market and can also help you to have a thorough understanding of the workings of diesel engines and how to diagnose, repair and maintain them. Examples of formal diesel mechanic training programs in Connecticut include:

• Lincoln Tech. Located in East Windsor, CT, this program provides students with the skills they need to repair and maintain trucks, tractors and many types of machinery. Classroom training is combined with real world diesel bays fully equipped with the tools needed to learn to become a diesel mechanic.
• CTECS. Students who wish to learn to become a diesel mechanic while in high school can do so through Connecticut Technical Education and Career System. Over 1,400 hours of training is provided in the trade technology area, including both theory and practice. This opportunity is available in Manchester, CT.

Certification or Licensing Requirements for Connecticut Diesel Mechanics

The state of Connecticut doesn’t require licensing or certification for diesel service technicians and mechanics. Many people in this field obtain optional certification through organizations such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This organization is nationally recognized and can help to prove to potential employers that you’re knowledgeable in the field of diesel mechanics and may also help you to obtain a higher salary.

Job Outlook and Salary Potential for Diesel Mechanics in Connecticut

Despite being a fairly small state, the job outlook for diesel mechanics in Connecticut is very promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports projected job growth of about 5 percent across the United States for diesel mechanics between 2018 and 2028. Projected growth in Connecticut in this field is expected to be approximately 10 percent between 2016 and 2026, according to Career OneStop.

Salary potential for diesel mechanics in Connecticut is excellent, with a median annual salary of $57,930 in 2018. Those who are paid on an hourly basis earned an average of $27.91 per hour the same year.

A Career as a Connecticut Diesel Mechanic

When you pursue a career as a diesel service technician and mechanic in Connecticut, your job will involve everything from minor repair to major overhaul of diesel engines. You’ll inspect vehicles and follow technical charts and manuals to determine the work required. You’ll use a wide variety of tools including handheld tools and power or machine tools. Equipment may be greasy at times, and you may work in a fairly noisy environment.

You may work long hours, including overtime, since many repair shops are open evenings, weekends or may offer around-the- clock emergency service. Many opportunities are available for mechanics who can maintain and repair diesel engines in trucking companies, dealerships and repair shops, especially in large cities such as Bridgeport, New Haven and Hartford, and across the state of Connecticut.