*** Source: Trades Notebook for Skilled Trades Occupations in the Willamette Valley

Median Salary: $49,518/year

Diesel Technicians repair and maintain the diesel engines that power trains, ships, generators, and the equipment used in highway construction, logging, and farming. Technicians also maintain and repair power train, electrical, and hydraulic systems used in construction equipment, farm equipment, and trucks. Some technicians work for companies that maintain their own vehicles; in these jobs, technicians spend most of their time doing tasks that will help prevent future problems.

Skills:

  • Troubleshooting/Repair
  • Automotive Industry Knowledge
  • Electrical Systems
  • Maintenance
  • Teamwork/Collaboration

Job Titles:

  • Diesel Mechanic
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Fleet Mechanic
  • Maintenance Technician

Primary Tasks:

  • Inspect mechanical components of vehicles to identify problems.
  • Adjust vehicle components according to specifications.
  • Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
  • Service vehicles to maintain functionality.
  • Operate transportation equipment to demonstrate function or malfunction.
  • Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Repair defective engines or engine components.

Wages & Jobs

Training

Training in Heavy Equipment/Diesel Service Technology is available locally at Linn-Benton Community College. Graduates can also pursue opportunities in service departments of distributors and dealers, bus lines/railways, trucking and marine industries, schools, electric power plants, local industries and state and federal government departments.

High School/College Courses:

  • Mathematics (Algebra I, II, Geometry)
  • Welding
  • Industrial Arts
  • Automotive Shop (if available)

LBCC’s Program:

LBCC’s Heavy Equipment/Diesel Technology Program works closely with local employers to ensure that the program curriculum is relevant to the needs of local industry. Students get a balance of theory and practical experience gained by diagnosing, servicing, repairing, and rebuilding components and live equipment.

Student Sponsorship Programs:

Industry partners have programs designed to sponsor students enrolled in program. Students apply directly to the company, and if accepted, the company provides financial support to the student while progressing through the program. The student in return agrees to work for the sponsoring company during school breaks, and continue on as an employee after graduation. Participating companies include Papé, Republic Services, TEC Equipment, Ag West and Yamhill County.

John Deere Construction and Forestry Program: LBCC is one of seven colleges in the country with a John Deere Construction and Forestry Technician program. This program develops the technical competency and professional attributes of students to prepare graduates for high-paying and rewarding careers as a John Deere Construction and Forestry Equipment Technicians.

Learn more at www.linnbenton.edu/hed

Contact:

6500 Pacific Blvd. SW
Albany, Oregon 97321
541-917-4999
admissions@linnbenton.edu
www.linnbenton.edu

To apply to LBCC, visit: https://www.linnbenton.edu/futures-start-here/index.php.

Links for more information: