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TransportationGreen JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.Critical OccupationOccupation identified by industry partners as critical to business success.

Mechanic and Diesel Engine Technician

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.

Annual openings

452

Median wage

$70,480

Typical education

Additional post-secondary training or an Associate's degree

Growth 2026–2032

+6%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Additional post-secondary training or an Associate's degree

Credential requirement

Completion of a mechanic training program is expected by many employers and Automotive Service Excellence certifications are valued as well.

Work experience

No previous work experience is required, though completion of an apprenticeship is valued by many employers.

Employer competency information

  • Feedback from employers identifies the following competencies as being critical to success: mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting abilities, critical thinking, and basic computer skills (for using diagnostic tools.
Many employers have identified a shortage of diesel and automobile mechanics/technicians.
Some Technicians will also work on Electric, Hydrogen or Natural Gas Vehicles, with additional skills required and developed, often through additional training/certification, for those specialties.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
  2. Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
  3. Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
  4. Use handtools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.
  5. Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
  6. Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
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