A Day in the Life of a Diesel Technician

A diesel technician is responsible for keeping important fleet vehicles on the road. These specialty technicians know the ins and outs of diesel vehicles and work tirelessly every day to ensure that the drivers of these vehicles remain safe and that the businesses behind these commercial vehicles can continue to operate smoothly.

While no two jobs are exactly alike, most diesel technicians will experience a similar day-to-day work life. Today, we’ll take a look at what a day in the life of a diesel technician looks like and why this lucrative career might be the right next step for you.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

During a diesel mechanic’s daily life, there are a few essential duties and responsibilities that will be performed.

Each day will begin by reviewing repair orders and checking in with management to see what the day entails. Throughout the day, the work a diesel technician performs will depend a lot on what vehicles have been brought in.

Diesel technicians assist with everything from routine repairs and maintenance to major diesel engine overhauls.

Diesel Technician standing in front of Transwest sign

"Being a Diesel Mechanic at Transwest has changed my life... Everything being in its place and a process to streamline the details and improve is an often overlooked blessing." -Josh G., Diesel Mechanic

While the specific job of a diesel technician might differ a little between companies, the following are all common duties and responsibilities of diesel mechanics:

Perform work as outlined in repair orders.
Verify the warranty, if applicable, on all repair orders.
Perform all work with efficiency and accuracy and in accordance with dealership and factory standards.
Diagnose and repair vehicle malfunction.
Communicate with the parts department to secure necessary parts.
Save and tag warranty parts.
Advise the shop foreman and provide recommendations if the repair order needs to be adjusted.
Repair documented in technician comments during each active time punch.
Road test vehicles as needed for quality assessment.
Maintain a working knowledge of factory technical bulletins.
Ensure customer vehicle cleanliness.
Maintain a neat and orderly work area.
Be accountable for all dealership-owned tools.
Uphold federal, state, and local regulations governing the disposal of hazardous waste.

Perform job duties and functions with flexibility in the event circumstances shift, i.e., emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technology developments.

As you can see from this list, the work of a diesel mechanic is varied. No two days are exactly the same, and the overarching goal of each day is to ensure that customers are assisted and trucks are back in service.

Common Work Environment and Physical Requirements for the Job

In addition to the work performed every day, most diesel mechanics will share a similar work environment and physical requirements of the job.

When it comes to the environment, diesel technicians will be performing work both inside and outside. This can take place in all weather situations and requires a fair level of physical strength. Most diesel mechanics will be moving between sitting, standing, bending, and stooping for prolonged periods of time.

Additionally, due to the nature of engine and maintenance work, becoming a diesel mechanic requires manual dexterity, fine manipulation, and the ability to reach with hands and arms. Most jobs will require a diesel mechanic to lift up to 80 pounds, and technicians must be able to operate simple to complex heavy-duty machinery.

Shift hours will vary depending on the specific service center’s hours. Generally, diesel mechanics will be working standard business hours any of the seven days of the week.

For mobile diesel mechanics, work hours might include evenings and nights. These mechanics are often on call 24/7 to assist with roadside breakdowns.

The Benefits of Becoming a Diesel Mechanic

As a diesel technician, you'll have more than just a job, you'll have a calling. You'll work with some of the most talented technicians in the industry.

Each day will be a little different than the one before, and you’ll have the chance to make your work your own.

Not only that, but you’ll know at the end of every day you are helped to ensure that the country’s supply chain is able to run smoothly. You will be contributing to the safety of drivers on the road, as you ensure that all vehicle components are working as intended.

Join the Transwest Team

At Transwest, we hire diesel mechanics on a regular basis. We invite you to consider joining the very best crew of professional diesel engine technicians. With our team, you’ll get the chance to work on Freightliner and Western Star products, Detroit Diesel, CAT, Cummins, and more.

All of our locations provide clean, safe working conditions, with the latest tooling and computer diagnostic equipment.

Additionally, by becoming a member of the Transwest family, you can take advantage of our certification program to expand your skills and further your career.

Learn more about open positions today. We have service departments across the U.S., allowing you to find the perfect location for your needs. We look forward to hearing from you soon.