How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Rhode Island

Diesel engines are the power behind large trucks, buses, commercial boats and heavy equipment like bulldozers and cranes. If you enjoy taking things apart and figuring out how they work, think about pursuing a career as a diesel mechanic. As a Rhode Island diesel mechanic, you’ll be able to maintain and repair diesel engines of all types, and your skills will be valued by many people and companies that rely on diesel engines for their livelihood.

Requirements for Becoming a Diesel Mechanic in Rhode Island

Post-secondary training or certification isn’t a requirement for becoming a diesel mechanic in Rhode Island, but most employers prefer candidates who have at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. Formal training programs in diesel technology are available at some community colleges and vocational schools.

Training Programs to Prepare You to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Rhode Island

Completing a formal training program can help you to thoroughly understand all types of diesel engines. Since diesel engines are continually becoming more complex, potential employers often prefer candidates who can prove they’ve had training in a program that includes both theory and hands-on practice. Since Rhode Island is such a small state, you may need to obtain training in nearby states such as Massachusetts or Connecticut. Some nearby diesel engine training programs include:

• Lincoln Tech. This diesel technology training program is offered at several locations including East Winsor, Connecticut. Students learn to service trucks, buses, power generators and heavy equipment. Classes are taught by highly trained ASE-certified instructors.
• Universal Technical Institute. Diesel mechanic training is offered at ten locations including Norwood, MA. In less than a year, you can complete their core program and learn to diagnose, repair and replace diesel engines. Specialized training is also offered.

Certification and Licensing of Diesel Mechanics in Rhode Island

Formal certification or licensing of diesel mechanics isn’t required in the state of Rhode Island. However, you may want to eventually consider obtaining national certification through a reputable organization such as National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Even though this isn’t required, if you obtain national certification, you prove your dedication and commitment to the field along with your mastery of diesel engines to potential employers and clients.

Job Outlook and Salary Information for Rhode Island Diesel Mechanics

Job growth in the field of diesel mechanics is projected to be about 5 percent across the United States between 2018 and 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is about average for all types of jobs. In the state of Rhode Island between 2016 and 2026, Career OneStop reports that growth in this field is projected to be approximately 7 percent, slightly better than the national average.

Diesel mechanics in the state of Rhode Island in 2018 earned an average of $49,620. The same year, the median hourly wage in this field in the state was $23.86. Completing formal training or obtaining national certification is likely to increase your earning potential.

Working as a Diesel Mechanic in Rhode Island

There are a variety of places that hire diesel mechanics in Rhode Island. Job opportunities are available with trucking companies, leasing companies and repair shops. Your job functions will include inspecting diesel engines, deciding what work needs to be done and completing maintenance or repair as needed. The equipment you work with may sometimes be heavy or greasy and include hand tools, power tools and machine tools.

Maintaining and repairing diesel engines isn’t usually a 9-to-5 job. You may work in the evenings, nights or overtime, or you might be on call to fix diesel engines whenever help is needed around the clock. Your skills and knowledge of methods to keep people moving by road, sea, air or rail will be in demand all over the state of Rhode Island, particularly in or near larger cities such as Providence and Warwick.