Diesel engines are the standard for long-range trucking in the United States. A diesel-powered engine is more efficient than a gasoline-powered engine. Additionally, diesel fuel releases more heat energy per gallon than gasoline. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that approximately 242,000 diesel mechanics positions were available in 2010. The job growth rate is projected to be 15 percent, which is close to the national average. The total number of new diesel mechanic jobs added by 2020 is estimated at 35,000.
Diesel mechanics investigate and repair faulty engines. They lift up cars and trucks on hydraulic jacks to examine them from underneath, follow a checklist to diagnose a problem, perform routine maintenance like an oil change and test drive vehicles to make sure they are fixed. Diesel mechanics often work in odd positions and handle heavy equipment. Mean wages for diesel mechanics in Nebraska are about $37,000. Experienced diesel mechanics can earn as much as $42,000. The majority of diesel mechanics work full-time. Overtime and overnight shifts are relatively common.
People looking for jobs as diesel mechanics in Nebraska would do well to start their search in Douglas County, which has the highest number of diesel mechanic jobs of all counties in the state. Community colleges like Metropolitan Community College in Omaha and Central Community College in Grand Island provide training programs for diesel mechanics. Northeast Community College in Norfolk also offers a program for heavy truck maintenance and repair.
Nebraska has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at four percent. The Transportation, Warehousing and Utilities sector in Nebraska employs over 50,000 people, about six percent of the Nebraska workforce. Nebraskans are known for their work ethic and industriousness. Nearly half of Nebraska's communities are served only by trucks. Plenty of work is available for would-be diesel mechanics if they look for jobs. Nebraska is one of only nine states that have higher Gross Domestic Product per capita than in 2007.
Below you will find a list of diesel mechanic schools in Nebraska, you can either click the school of your choice to find more information about the school or apply now to the school using the “Contact” button.
