Wages vary with level of training, experience and location. Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies with the employer's geographic location and industry. It also varies with the worker's skill and experience. Beginning apprentices earn from 50 to 75 percent of the rate of skilled workers.
Apprentices receive pay increases about every six months until they complete their apprenticeship.
Full-time truck and heavy equipment mechanics may receive benefits. Common benefits include health insurance, sick leave, and paid vacation. There were 6,910 people employed as bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists in Indiana in 1998. It is estimated that between 1996 and 2006, about 270 jobs per year for bus and truck mechanics and 64 jobs per year for mobile heavy equipment mechanics will need to be filled in this occupation. This number includes new jobs and jobs resulting from the replacement of current workers.