Diesel mechanics' earnings vary depending upon their region, industry (trucking, construction, railroad), and other factors. Technicians in the West and Northeast tend to earn more than those in other regions, although these distinctions are gradually disappearing.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), the median hourly pay for all diesel mechanics in May 2018 was $22.76, or approximately $47,350 annually, for full-time employment. The department also reported that the lowest paid 10 percent of diesel mechanics earned approximately $31,200 a year. The highest paid 10 percent earned more than $72,180 a year. The DOL reports that diesel mechanics earned the following mean annual salaries by specialty:

natural gas distribution: $89,400
electric power generation, transmission, and distribution: $68,860
coal mining: $66,090
local government: $57,230
motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts and supplies merchant wholesalers: $49,750
automotive equipment rental and leasing: $48,370
automotive repair and maintenance: $46,500
truck transportation: $44,840

Mechanics who work for companies that operate around the clock, such as bus lines, may work at night, on weekends, or on holidays and receive extra pay. For example, mechanics working for construction companies during peak summer building seasons earn up to $1,500 a week. Some industries are subject to seasonal variations in employment levels, such as construction.

Many diesel mechanics are members of labor unions, and their wage rates are established by contracts between the union and the employer. Benefits packages vary from business to business. Mechanics can expect health insurance and paid vacation from most employers. Other benefits may include dental and eye care, life and disability insurance, and a pension plan. Employers usually cover a mechanic's work clothes through a clothing allowance and may pay a percentage of hand-tools purchases. An increasing number of employers pay all or most of an employee's certification training if he or she passes the test. A mechanic's salary can increase by yearly bonuses or profit sharing if the business does well.

Diesel Mechanics

Overview

Introduction

Quick Facts

Earnings

Work Environment

Outlook

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