Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

What the job really is

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines. Includes mechanics working primarily with automobile or marine diesel engines.

At a glance

• Sector: Installation, Maintenance & Repair
• O*NET-SOC code: 49-3031
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Dismount, mount, and repair or replace tires.
• Install or repair accessories.
• Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.
• 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.
• Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
• Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
• 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.
• Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.

Tools and technology

Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, SAP software, Acetylene torches, Adjustable crescent wrenches, Adjustable widemouth pliers, Adjustable wrenches, Ball peen hammers, Battery chargers

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
• Rail Car Repairers
• Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
• Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
• Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
• Motorcycle Mechanics
• Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.