Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

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.

Tasks Include:

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.
Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Projections Quick View:

Virginia: +15.7%

National: +14.5%

Education

High School Diploma

Job Zone:

Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Income Range:

Moderately High ($36,000 - $49,999)

Average Earnings:

National

$42,250.00

State

$42,427.74

Regional

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Description

Career Cluster:

Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics

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.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Education

Required Level of Education

High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate) = 40.11%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades) = 39.36%
Some College Courses = 12.04%
Less than a High School Diploma = 8.49%

Related Work Experience

Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 27.00%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 25.10%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 24.19%
None = 11.40%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 7.74%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 3.26%
Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years = 1.30%

On-Site or In-Plant Training

Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 35.32%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 29.28%
None = 23.44%
Up to and including 1 month = 8.70%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 3.26%

On-the-Job Training

Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 51.57%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 25.67%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 20.80%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 1.30%
None or short demonstration = 0.66%

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

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.
Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, and pressure gauges.
Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery such as pumps and compressors.
Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
Recondition and replace parts, pistons, bearings, gears, and valves.
Inspect and verify dimensions and clearances of parts to ensure conformance to factory specifications.
Disassemble and overhaul internal combustion engines, pumps, generators, transmissions, clutches, and differential units.
Specialize in repairing and maintaining parts of the engine, such as fuel injection systems.
Repair and adjust seats, doors, and windows, and install and repair accessories.
Rebuild gas or diesel engines.
Align front ends and suspension systems.

Supplemental Tasks Include:

Operate valve-grinding machines to grind and reset valves.

Tasks Include:

Adjust or repair computer controlled exhaust emissions devices.
Follow green operational practices involving conservation of water or energy or reduction of solid waste.
Maintain or repair vehicles with alternative fuel systems, including biodiesel, hybrid, or compressed natural gas vehicles.
Measure vehicle emissions to determine whether they are within acceptable limits.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Tools and Technology

Tools Include:

Blow torches (Acetylene torches)
Adjustable wrenches (Adjustable crescent wrenches)
Adjustable widemouth pliers
Adjustable wrenches
Welders (Arc welders)
Hammers (Ball peen hammers)
Battery chargers
Induction heaters (Bearing heating ovens)
Pneumatic sanding machines (Blast cleaning cabinets)
Specialty wrenches (Bleeder wrenches)
Compressed air gun (Blow guns)
Gauges or inspection fixtures (Bore gauges)
Boring tools (Boring bars)
Boring tools
Box end wrenches
Brake repair kits (Brake shoe adjusting tools)
Punches or nail sets or drifts (Brass drifts)
Hammers (Brass hammers)
Gas welding or brazing or cutting apparatus (Brazing equipment)
Slings (Chain slings)
Hammers (Claw hammers)
Cold chisels
Combination wrenches
Hammers (Cross peen hammers)
Blow torches (Cutting torches)
Speed sensors (Decelerometers)
Depth gauges
Desktop computers
Portable data input terminals (Detroit diesel electronic control DDEC readers)
Diagonal cut pliers (Diagonal cutting pliers)
Calipers (Dial calipers)
Gauges or inspection fixtures (Dial gauges)
Power drills (Drill machines)
Workshop presses (Drill presses)
Dynamometers (Dynanometers)
Feeler gauges
Files
Specialty wrenches (Flare nut wrenches)
Portable data input terminals (Flash card readers)
Forklifts
Engine or component test stands (Fuel pump test stands)
Gas welding or brazing or cutting apparatus (Gas welding equipment)
Engine or component test stands (Governor test stands)
Power grinders (Grinding machines)
Saws (Hacksaws)
Portable data input terminals (Handheld diagnostic computers)
Ear plugs (Hearing protectors)
Hex keys
Hoists
Drill bits (Hones)
Hydraulic pumps
Hydraulic pumps (Hydraulic rams)
Impact wrenches
Pressure sensors (Injector pop testers)
Calipers (Inside calipers)
Jacks
Lathes
Locking pliers
Metal inert gas MIG welding machinery (Metal inert gas MIG welders)
Micrometers
Milling machines
Multimeters
Needlenose pliers
Open end wrenches
Calipers (Outside calipers)
Paint sprayers (Paint spray guns)
Personal computers
Pneumatic impact wrenches (Pneumatic wrenches)
Power drills
Power grinders
Power sanders
Power saws
Pressure indicators (Pressure gauges)
Pry bars
Specialty wrenches (Pump wrenches)
Workshop presses (Punch presses)
Punches or nail sets or drifts (Punch sets)
Stamping dies or punches (Punches)
Putty knives
Files (Rat tail files)
Ratchets
Reamers
Rivet tools (Riveting tools)
Safety glasses
Protective gloves (Safety gloves)
Screwdrivers
Shears
Hammers (Sledgehammers)
Slip or groove joint pliers (Slip joint pliers)
Specialty wrenches (Slug wrenches)
Thickness measuring devices (Snap gauges)
Retaining ring pliers (Snap ring pliers)
Socket sets (Socket wrench sets)
Feeler gauges (Spark plug gapping tools)
Sockets (Spark plug sockets)
Pressure or steam cleaners (Steam cleaning equipment)
Tachometers
Tape measures
Circuit tester (Test lights)
Pressure indicators (Tire pressure gauges)
Torque wrenches
Tungsten inert gas TIG welding machinery (Tungsten inert gas TIG welding equipment)
Two way radios
Utility knives
Vacuum pumps
Resurfacers (Valve seat grinders)
Locking pliers (Vise grip pliers)
Voltage or current meters (Voltmeters)
Adjustable widemouth pliers (Water pump pliers)
Welding tools (Welding equipment)
Welding masks (Welding hoods)
Wheel balancing equipment (Wheel balancers)
Wire lug crimping tool (Wire crimpers)
Wire cutters (Wire cutting tools)
Stripping tools (Wire strippers)
Workshop cranes

Technologies Include:

Data base user interface and query software

Database software

Facilities management software

Shop management software

Word processing software

Word processing software

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Special Requirements

Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Education: Most Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Additional Resources

More details about work opportunities for diesel service technicians and mechanics may be obtained from local employers such as trucking companies, truck dealers, or bus lines.

For general information about a career as a diesel service technician or mechanic, write:

Detroit Diesel
Personnel Director
MS B39
13400 West Outer Dr.
Detroit, MI 48239

Information on how to become a certified medium/heavy-duty diesel technician or bus technician is available from:

ASE
101 Blue Seal Dr. SE
Suite 101
Leesburg, VA 20175
http://www.asecert.org

For a directory of accredited private trade and technical schools with training programs for diesel service technicians and mechanics, contact:

Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology
2101 Wilson Blvd.
Suite 302
Arlington, VA 22201
http://www.accsct.org

National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
13505 Dulles Technology Dr.
Herndon, VA 20171-3421
http://www.natef.org

For a directory of public training programs for diesel service technicians and mechanics, contact:

SkillsUSA-VICA
P.O. Box 3000
14001 James Monroe Hwy.
Leesburg, VA 22075
http://www.skillsusa.org

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Knowledge

%	Subject	Description
92.00	Mechanical	Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
57.00	Public Safety and Security	Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
55.25	Transportation	Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
52.00	English Language	Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Skills

%	Subject	Description
65.50	Repairing	Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
65.50	Troubleshooting	Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
59.50	Operation Monitoring	Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
59.50	Equipment Maintenance	Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
59.50	Operation and Control	Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
53.00	Quality Control Analysis	Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
53.00	Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
53.00	Speaking	Talking to others to convey information effectively.
53.00	Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
50.00	Monitoring	Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
50.00	Equipment Selection	Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
50.00	Complex Problem Solving	Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Abilities

%	Subject	Description
72.00	Control Precision	The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
68.75	Arm-Hand Steadiness	The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
68.75	Manual Dexterity	The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
68.75	Multilimb Coordination	The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
68.75	Near Vision	The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
65.50	Finger Dexterity	The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
65.50	Problem Sensitivity	The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
62.50	Hearing Sensitivity	The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
59.50	Deductive Reasoning	The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
59.50	Inductive Reasoning	The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
59.50	Oral Comprehension	The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
56.25	Speech Recognition	The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
56.25	Oral Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
56.25	Depth Perception	The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
56.25	Extent Flexibility	The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
53.00	Visual Color Discrimination	The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
53.00	Static Strength	The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
53.00	Trunk Strength	The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.
53.00	Speech Clarity	The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
53.00	Category Flexibility	The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50.00	Selective Attention	The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
50.00	Response Orientation	The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
50.00	Visualization	The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
50.00	Information Ordering	The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
50.00	Flexibility of Closure	The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50.00	Reaction Time	The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Work Activities

%	Subject	Description
82.00	Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material	Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
81.50	Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
78.00	Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
73.25	Making Decisions and Solving Problems	Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
72.75	Getting Information	Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
68.75	Handling and Moving Objects	Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
67.25	Performing General Physical Activities	Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
66.50	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
65.75	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
65.25	Controlling Machines and Processes	Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
64.00	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
60.25	Documenting/Recording Information	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
58.25	Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
58.00	Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
52.50	Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People	Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
51.75	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
51.75	Interacting With Computers	Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
51.50	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
50.25	Processing Information	Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Work Styles

%	Subject	Description
84.25	Attention to Detail	Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
80.75	Dependability	Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
71.75	Cooperation	Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
68.75	Analytical Thinking	Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
68.75	Independence	Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
67.50	Integrity	Job requires being honest and ethical.
63.25	Initiative	Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
62.25	Achievement/Effort	Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
61.00	Adaptability/Flexibility	Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
60.50	Persistence	Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
58.50	Self Control	Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
52.75	Innovation	Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
51.50	Stress Tolerance	Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Work Values

%	Subject	Description
66.67	Support	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
55.50	Relationships	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Work Context

%	Subject	Description
97.00	Exposed to Contaminants	How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
95.00	Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets	How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
93.60	Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls	How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
92.20	Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
91.00	Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting	How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
90.20	Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable	How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
87.60	Spend Time Standing	How much does this job require standing?
86.60	Outdoors, Exposed to Weather	How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
86.20	Face-to-Face Discussions	How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
86.20	Freedom to Make Decisions	How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
85.40	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate	How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
83.80	Structured versus Unstructured Work	To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
82.00	Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings	How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
82.00	Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions	How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
81.00	Contact With Others	How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
80.40	Telephone	How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
79.40	Exposed to Hazardous Equipment	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
78.00	Frequency of Decision Making	How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
77.80	Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results	How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
77.00	Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body	How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
76.40	In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment	How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
76.20	Very Hot or Cold Temperatures	How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
73.00	Outdoors, Under Cover	How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
73.00	In an Open Vehicle or Equipment	How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
69.20	Time Pressure	How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
68.40	Consequence of Error	How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
68.40	Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions	How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
67.80	Work With Work Group or Team	How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
67.40	Physical Proximity	To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
66.20	Exposed to Hazardous Conditions	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
65.20	Spend Time Walking and Running	How much does this job require walking and running?
64.20	Responsible for Others' Health and Safety	How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
62.60	Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People	How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
62.40	Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling	How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
59.40	Coordinate or Lead Others	How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
56.40	Responsibility for Outcomes and Results	How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
55.20	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
54.60	Exposed to High Places	How often does this job require exposure to high places?
53.00	Level of Competition	To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
52.40	Frequency of Conflict Situations	How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
51.80	Importance of Repeating Same Tasks	How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Overall Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Examples
- These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include food service managers, electricians, agricultural technicians, legal secretaries, interviewers, and insurance sales agents.
Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Earnings Benefits*

Region	Entry Level	Average	Experienced
United States	$26,820.00	$43,660.00	$52,930.00
Virginia	$30,492.41	$42,427.74	$48,390.34

Region	Entry Level	Average	Experienced
Bay Consortium	$31,588.59	$49,016.01	$57,728.71
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	$33,660.29	$44,411.22	$49,786.69
Central VA/Region2000	$28,868.92	$36,905.24	$40,922.90
Crater Area	$29,595.99	$39,496.13	$44,445.70
Greater Peninsula	$33,944.22	$41,927.82	$45,919.11
Hampton Roads	$31,353.33	$40,552.77	$45,151.47
New River/Mt. Rogers	$26,127.95	$39,221.33	$45,769.03
Northern Virginia and Alexandria/Arlington	$32,485.01	$45,618.95	$52,185.92
Piedmont Workforce	$30,686.09	$41,073.99	$46,267.94
Shenandoah Valley	$29,665.96	$41,334.60	$47,168.42
South Central	$25,822.72	$36,130.51	$41,284.91
Southwestern Virginia	$21,108.41	$38,618.98	$47,373.25
West Piedmont	$29,270.48	$41,635.77	$47,818.42
Western Virginia	$30,160.81	$39,760.80	$44,561.30

* Earnings Calculations:

State and Regional Earnings:
   Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
   Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.

National Earnings:
   Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
   Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Employment Projections

National	2010	2020	% Change
United States	242,200	277,400	+ 14.5%

State	2010	2020	% Change
Virginia	6,703	7,755	+ 15.7%

Region	2010	2020	% Change
Bay Consortium	283	345	+ 21.9%
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	976	1,141	+ 16.9%
Central VA/Region2000	194	219	+ 12.9%
Crater Area	114	134	+ 17.5%
Greater Peninsula	281	328	+ 16.7%
Hampton Roads	821	947	+ 15.3%
New River/Mt. Rogers	498	567	+ 13.9%
Northern Virginia and Alexandria/Arlington	1,292	1,552	+ 20.1%
Piedmont Workforce	155	184	+ 18.7%
Shenandoah Valley	658	755	+ 14.7%
South Central	175	196	+ 12.0%
Southwestern Virginia	272	315	+ 15.8%
West Piedmont	205	223	+ 8.8%
Western Virginia	508	580	+ 14.2%

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Workforce Connection.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Related Occupations

Related Occupations

Careers in Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance Pathway:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

View Videos

The following videos are available for this occupation:

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics (6.31 Mb)
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists (2.59 Mb)

Macromedia Flash is required for viewing the videos. If you do not have the Flash plugin, it is freely available for download.

En Español:

Bus, Truck, and Diesel Engine Mechanics (2.4)

Quicktime 5 is required for viewing the Spanish videos. If you do not have the Quicktime plugin, it is freely available for download.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Military Training

The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:

Aircraft Accessories
Aircraft Engines
Automotive, General
Auxiliaries
Construction Equipment
Construction, General
Electric Power
Electricians
Main Propulsion
Not Occupationally Qualified, General
Tracked Vehicles

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Proficiency Ratings

These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency	Rating
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material	4.5
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	4.5
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	4.0
Making Decisions and Solving Problems	4.0
Getting Information	4.0
Handling and Moving Objects	4.0
Performing General Physical Activities	3.5
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	3.5
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	3.5
Controlling Machines and Processes	3.5
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	3.5
Documenting/Recording Information	3.5
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	3.5
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	3.5
Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People	3.0
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	3.0
Interacting With Computers	3.0
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	3.0
Processing Information	3.0
Analyzing Data or Information	3.0
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	3.0
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	2.5
Training and Teaching Others	2.5
Thinking Creatively	2.5
Scheduling Work and Activities	2.5
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	2.5
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization	2.5
Developing Objectives and Strategies	2.5
Assisting and Caring for Others	2.5
Monitoring and Controlling Resources	2.5
Coaching and Developing Others	2.5
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	2.5
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	2.5
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	2.0
Provide Consultation and Advice to Others	2.0
Performing Administrative Activities	2.0
Developing and Building Teams	2.0
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	2.0
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	2.0
Selling or Influencing Others	2.0
Staffing Organizational Units	1.0

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Titles

Biodiesel Engine Specialist
Boat Diesel Motor Mechanic
Boat Engine Mechanic
Boat Engines Installer
Boat Mechanic
Bus Mechanic
Bus or Truck Garage Mechanic
Certified Mechanic
Deep Submergence Vehicle Crewmember
Diesel Engine Erector
Diesel Engine Fitter
Diesel Engine Mechanic
Diesel Machinist
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel Mechanic Apprentice
Diesel Motor Mechanic
Diesel Service Technician
Diesel Technician
Diesel Tractor Engine Mechanic
Engine Maintenance Mechanic
Engine Mechanic
Farm Equipment Engine Mechanic
Farm Implement Engine Mechanic
Farm Machinery Engine Mechanic
Fleet Mechanic
Fleet Service Manager
Garage Mechanic
General Repair Mechanic
Heavy Duty Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Engine Mechanic
Heavy Repairer
Heavy Truck Mechanic
Industrial Truck Mechanic
Journeyman Bus Mechanic
Locomotive Mechanic
Maintenance Mechanic
Marine Diesel Mechanic
Marine Diesel Technician
Marine Engine Machinist
Marine Engine Machinist Apprentice
Marine Engine Mechanic
Mechanic
Medium/Heavy Truck Mechanic
Motor Mechanic
Oil Field Equipment Mechanic
Ordnance Truck Installation Mechanic
Overhauler, Bus, Truck
School Bus Mechanic
Service Technician
Tank Truck Engine Mechanic
Tractor Expert
Tractor Mechanic
Tractor Mechanic Apprentice
Tractor Trailer Mechanic
Trailer Mechanic
Transit Mechanic
Transportation Mechanic
Truck Bench Mechanic
Truck Engine Technician
Truck Mechanic
Truck Mechanic Apprentice
Truck Trailer Mechanic
Truck, Railroad, and Bus Engine Mechanic
Truck, Railroad, and Bus Motor Mechanic
Truck, Railroad, and Bus Transmission Mechanic
Truck, Railroad, and Bus Tune Up Mechanic
Vehicle Mechanic

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Related Schools

J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Northern Virginia Community College
Southside Virginia Community College
Southwest Virginia Community College
Tidewater Community College
Virginia Highlands Community College

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.