Diesel Technology

The Diesel Technology Program trains students for the medium to heavy duty truck industry.

With the fleet of vehicles on the roads today growing by the day, there's never been a higher demand for professional diesel mechanics to keep those vehicles running smoothly. With this program, students learn about everything from basic diesel engine repair to more advanced skills like diagnostics and troubleshooting.

And with career paths as diverse as fire and rescue, fleet maintenance, and even working for companies like BNSF Railway, UPS, Fed-Ex, or Waste Management. Companies like John Deere offer generous tuition reimbursements and tool packages as well.

Associate of Applied Science

73 Credits

Curriculum

hands-on experience

What's Different About Northeastern's Diesel Technology Program?

If you're looking for a career in diesel technology, Northeastern Junior College has you covered. In their Diesel Technology Program, you'll have the opportunity to learn all about the electrical systems, air brake systems, engine performance, and steering and suspensions that make these powerful machines run.

Not only will you gain hands-on experience with these complex systems, but you'll also learn about industry regulations and safety protocols that are crucial for success in this field.

With highly qualified instructors and state-of-the-art facilities, the program will help you gain the skills you need to succeed in the exciting world of diesel technology.

full-scale diesel engine lab

More than just your average college program.

Northeastern Junior College's Diesel Technology Program is more than just your average college program. For starters, Northeastern focuses on providing their students a well-rounded college experience.

Whether you're a commuter or a resident, Northeastern's campus is vibrant and full of opportunities to get involved in student life. Secondly, the program is affordable and offers financial aid to those who need it. But what really sets Northeastern's Diesel Technology Program apart is the emphasis they place on hands-on experience.

Many other programs focus on theory only, but Northeastern takes pride in its facilities that provide students with the chance to hone their craft and gain practical knowledge.

These facilities include a full-scale diesel engine lab and a fleet of diesel powered machines, such as tractors and construction rigs in addition to trucks, which allow students to work on real-world projects and be career-ready upon graduation.

NJC diesel technology female working on engine

90% placement rate

Certified Diesel Technicians are in High Demand

If you're looking for a career that's in high demand and pays well, consider becoming a certified diesel technician. Northeastern Junior College's Diesel Technology Program can prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed for success in this exciting and rapidly growing field.

According to recent Labor Statistics, the demand for diesel technicians is expected to increase over the coming years, making this an ideal time to enter the field.

With an impressive 80% pass rate on industry certification exams, our program has a proven track record of helping students achieve success. And with a 90% placement rate for graduates, you can feel confident in your ability to find a fulfilling career after completing the program.

More about the Program

Entry Requirements

Please complete the Diesel Program Application once you have applied at Northeastern.

Supplies & Tools

Required to start 2nd year

Tool Box sufficient to hold tools
Hex Key Wrench Set - Standard (.050" - 3/8") (7/16" - 1/2" optional)
Hex Key Wrench Set - Metric (2mm - 12mm)
Stud-to-Post or Charging/Test Adapter
Chisels - Cold 5/8", 3/4"
Combination Wrenches - Standard (3/8" - 1") (up to 1 and 1/4" optional) Metric (6mm - 19mm) (up to 24mm optional)
Digital Multi-meter - minimum 10 meg. ohms impedance CAT III ( Fluke 87 or 88)
Electrical Pliers - Crimper/Stripper
Files and Handles - 12" Fine 12" Coarse 12"
Half Round Flare Nut Wrench Set - Standard (3/8" - 3/4") Metric (7mm - 19mm)
Flashlight ( pocket)
Goggles - (per OSHA requirements)
Hack Saw
Hammers - Ball Peen - 16 oz. and 24 oz. Soft Face 3lb sledge
Hearing Protection - (per OSHA requirements)
Inspection Mirror
Magnetic Pickup Tool
Mechanic's Steel Ruler - Machinist Rule
Pliers - Adjustable Joint Locking Pliers Needle Nose Side Cutters
Slip-joint Punches - Pin 3/16" - 3/8" Starter 3/16" - 3/8"
Aligning Punch Set Brass punch Center punch
Punch holder
Safety Glasses (Side Panels) - (per OSHA requirements)

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032.

Despite limited employment growth, about 24,300 openings for diesel service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment

As more freight is shipped across the country, additional diesel-powered trucks will be needed to carry freight wherever trains and pipelines are neither available nor economical. In addition, aging vehicles with diesel engines are likely to require more maintenance and repair, supporting the need for diesel technicians.

However, demand for these workers may be reduced as more firms turn away from diesel-powered trucks in favor of electric ones, which require less maintenance and repair. For example, trucks used for short-haul transportation, such as local delivery services, are expected to increasingly be electric.

Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual wage for diesel service technicians and mechanics was $54,360 in May 2022. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,030, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,340.

In May 2022, the median annual wages for diesel service technicians and mechanics in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Local government, excluding education and hospitals	$62,940
Wholesale trade	$58,750
Automotive repair and maintenance	$52,800
Rental and leasing services	$50,390
Truck transportation	$48,940

Many diesel technicians, especially those employed by truck fleet dealers and repair shops, receive a commission in addition to their base salary.

Most diesel technicians work full time. Overtime is common, as many repair shops extend their service hours during evenings and weekends. In addition, some truck and bus repair shops provide 24-hour maintenance and repair services.