Occupations49-3031.00

Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses and trucks, or maintain and repair any type of diesel engines.

Median annual pay
$60,640

BLS, 2024

Employment
319,900

U.S., 2024

Ten-year outlook
+2.4%

2024–34

Annual openings
26,500

Projected average

The work

Core tasks

  1. 01Use 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.
  2. 02Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
  3. 03Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
  4. 04Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
  5. 05Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
  6. 06Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
  7. 07Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
  8. 08Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
  9. 09Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
  10. 10Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
  11. 11Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
  12. 12Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Critical ThinkingSpeakingActive ListeningMonitoringReading ComprehensionActive LearningLearning StrategiesWritingMathematicsScience

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading

U.S. employment is projected to move from 319,900 in 2024 to 327,700 in 2034, a +2.4% change.

BLS projects an average of 26,500 openings each year over the period, including openings created by workers leaving the occupation.