Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

At a glance

  • Median Salary
    $47,838
  • Local Jobs
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  • Entry-Level Education
    Certification
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Occupation Profile

Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition. 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. Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment. Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices. Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.

By the Numbers

Daily Tasks

  • 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.
  • Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
  • Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
  • Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
  • Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
  • Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
  • Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
  • Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
  • Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
  • Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
  • Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
  • Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.
  • 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.
  • Adjust or repair computer controlled exhaust emissions devices.
  • Rebuild gas or diesel engines.
  • Specialize in repairing and maintaining parts of the engine, such as fuel injection systems.
  • Recondition and replace parts, pistons, bearings, gears, and valves.
  • Install or repair accessories.
  • Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.
  • Dismount, mount, and repair or replace tires.
  • Align front ends and suspension systems.
  • Maintain or repair vehicles with alternative fuel systems, including biodiesel, hybrid, or compressed natural gas vehicles.

Occupational Skills

What skills are necessary for a Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists career?

Hard Skills

  • Brakes
  • Diesel Engines
  • Electrical Systems
  • Heavy Equipment
  • HVAC
  • Hydraulics
  • Mechanics
  • Power Tool Operation
  • Preventive Maintenance
  • Suspension (Vehicle)

Soft Skills

  • Communications
  • Computer Literacy
  • Customer Service
  • Good Driving Record
  • Lifting Ability
  • Management
  • Operations
  • Troubleshooting (Problem Solving)
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Writing

Hard skills are specific, learnable, measurable, often industry- or occupation-specific abilities related to a position.

Soft skills can be self-taught and usually do not necessitate a certain completed level of education. They are essential in many industries and occupations.

Educational Programs

  • TypeCredentialHrsOnlineFinancial Aid
    CreditAAS Degree/L1/L260/52/37NoYes
  • TypeCredentialHrsOnlineFinancial Aid
    CreditAAS Degree, Level II Cert, Level I Cert60/52/35NoYes
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    Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

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