Some diesel mechanics specialize in fuel injection, transmissions, electrical, cooling or hydraulic systems. Others do maintenance checks that might include inspecting brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts. Diesel mechanics are usually employed by industrial organizations such as mining companies, commercial trucking lines, or independent repair shops. A formal 4-year apprenticeship is another way to learn diesel mechanics. However, employers are becoming more reluctant to make such a long-term investment in training.
Some mechanics learn their skills on the job.
These unskilled beginners usually do tasks such cleaning parts, fueling, etc. These beginners can advance as they gain experience. Employment of diesel mechanics is expected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Additional diesel mechanics will be needed to repair and maintain the growing numbers of buses and heavy construction equipment. Due to the greater durability and economy of the diesel engine relative to gasoline engines, buses and trucks of all sizes are expected to be increasingly powered by diesel engines, thus creating new jobs for diesel mechanics.