Becoming a Diesel Mechanic

Becoming and being a diesel mechanic is often dirty work and working on cars can be frustrating. Most mechanics love cars and thus don’t find it frustrating so much as enjoyable. There is a range of different mechanics, some perform general car repairs and some specialise in brakes, air conditioning, or diesel engines.

Mechanics need to know how a car works, how the elements of an engine work together, understand electrical circuits, legal regulations (road worthiness and business practices) and how to use welders and other common tools. Mechanics work out of garages and usually work regular hours or slightly later hours to accommodate clients who work full time hours.

To be a diesel mechanic one would need to be interested in engines, be relatively fit, like manual work, technically oriented and once 18 would need a drivers licence. Many apprentices begin at the age of 16, after they have finished year 10. Many mechanics are also required to hold a First Aid Certificate.

Most mechanics begin their career with an apprenticeship and progress through demonstration of skill and increasing value to the business. There are course offered at TAFE’s across Australia that can also assist in furthering knowledge and gaining an apprenticeship; certificates in Automotive, automotive mechanics, as well as specialised course in LPG systems, diesel systems and mechanical servicing.

The salary of a diesel mechanic depends on experience and other areas of knowledge. It can range from $39K to $55K. Many mechanics are paid on a casual hourly basis or a permanent basis with an hourly rate, as opposed to salaries like white collar professions.

Find a position in the mechanic field as a diesel mechanic and further information here.