If you have a passion for working with vehicles and seek a stable, well-paying career, choosing a Diesel Mechanic in Georgia could be the right fit for you.
Discover how to become a skilled Diesel Mechanic in Georgia. Explore these Top Diesel Mechanic Schools in Georgia, along with their training options and requirements for a hands-on career, known for stability and competitive pay.
Diesel mechanics specialize in the maintenance and repair of diesel engines commonly found in larger vehicles.
Diesel Mechanic programs in Georgia provide the chance to grasp the basics of heavy diesel equipment and repair.
Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics focus on diesel-powered vehicles like buses, large trucks, boats, bulldozers, and more. Their tasks range from routine maintenance to thorough overhauls.
Training covers vehicle inspection, utilization of diagnostic computer technology, and understanding the unique needs of diesel engines, including electrical systems and powertrain components.
Certifications and Requirements for Becoming a Diesel Mechanic in Georgia
In Georgia, there are no specific state-set requirements for becoming a diesel mechanic.
The lack of government regulation allows employers to set their own criteria. However, most employers prefer candidates with a driver’s license, preferably with a clean driving record.
While on-the-job training is an option, completing a post-secondary education in the field, which typically takes a year or less, can provide a solid foundation for entering the workforce.
A high school diploma or GED is typically the minimum educational requirement, though post-secondary education is not mandatory.
Opting for additional training through a certificate or diploma program in diesel technology can be beneficial.
This not only increases your chances of being hired but may also lead to higher earnings, eliminating the need for extensive on-the-job training.
Certification is optional but worth considering, especially if you aim for increased income or aspire to operate your repair shop.
If you’re aiming for certification as a diesel mechanic, it’s crucial to ensure that the educational program you choose is endorsed by the ASE, the primary certification authority for mechanics.
An ASE-approved program will adequately prepare you for certification exams in various areas of diesel mechanics, such as transit bus, school bus, truck equipment, medium-sized duty trucks, and electronic diesel engines.
Successfully passing the exam grants you certification in that specific area.
Salary and Job Outlook for Diesel Mechanics in Georgia
Becoming a diesel mechanic offers several key benefits, including lucrative pay, consistently strong demand for labor, minimal student debt, and brief training periods.
Diesel professionals enjoy diverse opportunities in multiple industries, engaging with various vehicle systems and leveraging cutting-edge technologies.
This flexibility allows you to choose and participate in the industry that aligns best with your interests.
The field of diesel mechanics is on a steady growth trajectory. In Georgia, the profession is experiencing a notable percentage growth rate, with over 1,500 job opportunities expected in the state in the coming years.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, diesel mechanics nationwide earn an average annual salary of $47,300.
In Georgia, the mean annual salary is slightly lower at $46,100. However, with accumulated experience and certification, there’s potential to earn up to $68,000 annually in the state.
Diesel mechanics find employment in various sectors such as trucking and transportation companies, truck dealerships, repair shops, or within local government, school districts, and public transit systems.
The nature of their work requires bending, crouching, squatting, and stooping, along with extended periods on their feet and occasional heavy lifting.
Diesel mechanics perform both minor and major engine repairs utilizing a combination of handheld and power tools. Given the growth rate in Georgia, opportunities are available throughout the state.
List of Diesel Mechanic Schools in Georgia
- GM Service Technical College
- South Georgia Tech Industrial Services
- Atlanta Technical College
- South Georgia Technical College
- Cummins South Training Center
- Albany Technical College
- Oconee Fall Line Technical College
- Gwinnett Technical College
- Ogeechee Technical College
GM Service Technical College
The GM Service Technical College provides a specialized 12-week GM Technician Career Training program, offered in collaboration with Universal Technical Institute (UTI) at its Avondale, AZ campus.
This program is exclusively available to graduates of UTI’s 51-week basic automotive training curriculum. During the 12 weeks, students engage in a blend of hands-on and online learning to develop expertise in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles from Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac brands.
The program covers various topics, including electrical/electronics, brakes, HVAC, steering and suspension, engine repair, engine performance, diesel engine performance, and maintenance and inspection.
This program is a student-paid elective, providing comprehensive training for aspiring GM technicians.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://www.gmstc.com/
- Address: 6395 Shiloh Rd. Alpharetta GA
South Georgia Tech Industrial Services
South Georgia Technical College offers a comprehensive range of programs, including health care, personal services, business, industrial, and transportation technologies.
In the field of Diesel Mechanics, the college provides specialized courses such as Diesel Electrical/Electronic Systems Technician, Diesel Engine Service Technician, Diesel Equipment Technology, and Diesel Truck Maintenance Technician.
Each program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for entry-level positions in the diesel equipment service and repair profession.
The curriculum covers various aspects, including safety, tool usage, electrical/electronic systems, engines, and support systems.
Upon completion, students receive certificates or diplomas, positioning them for successful employment in the diesel industry.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: http://www.southgatech.edu
- Phone: 229-931-2394
- Address: 900 South Georgia Tech Parkway, Americus Georgia 31709
Atlanta Technical College
Atlanta Technical College offers diverse programs in Diesel Equipment Technology, providing options such as a diploma in Diesel Equipment Technology and technical certificates in Diesel Electronics Systems, Diesel Engine Service, and Diesel Truck Maintenance.
The technical certificate programs have a short duration of 1-2 semesters (one year or less), while the diploma program spans four semesters or two years. The curriculum includes both general education and specialization courses.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://atlantatech.smartcatalogiq.com/2023-2024/college-catalog/programs-of-study/diesel-equipment-technology/
- Address: 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30034
South Georgia Technical College
The Heavy Diesel Service Technician certificate program at South Georgia Technical College focuses on the theory, diagnosis, and repair of basic systems in diesel engines and equipment.
The comprehensive instruction covers shop safety, ship equipment, diesel engines, and fuel systems, electrical and electronic systems, off-road power trains, and heavy equipment hydraulics.
Successful completion of this program equips students to enter the industry as entry-level diesel service technicians.
The program is offered at various campus locations for convenience.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/heavy-diesel-service-technician/
- Phone: 229-931-2394
- Address: 900 South Georgia Tech Parkway, Americus Georgia 31709
Cummins South Training Center
The Cummins South Training Center in Georgia, in collaboration with UTI, offers a 12-week Cummins Engines elective providing hands-on training with state-of-the-industry engines and equipment.
Cummins invests in UTI labs to ensure graduates are well-prepared to work on their diesel equipment. Graduates earn Cummins qualifications in heavy-duty engine service and repair.
Cummins actively supports the program, granting students access to their full line of diesel equipment.
The Cummins Engines program focuses on comprehensive Cummins-specific training, preparing students for careers with Cummins Distributors or Authorized Dealers.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://www.uti.edu/programs/diesel/specialized-training/cummins-diesel-engines
Albany Technical College Diesel
Albany Technical College offers diverse educational pathways for students to pursue.
One notable program is the Diesel Engine Service Technician (DE21) Technical Certificate of Credit, which is embedded in the Diesel Equipment Technology Diploma.
This certificate program provides students with the necessary training to become entry-level diesel engine service technicians.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as diesel shop safety, tools and equipment, diesel electrical/electronic systems, and diesel engines and support systems.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://www.albanytech.edu/college-catalog/current/programs/diesel-engine-service-tec
- Phone: 229-430-3500 / 877-261-3113
- Address: 1704 South Slappey Blvd,. Albany, GA 31701
Oconee Fall Line Technical College Diesel
Oconee Fall Line Technical College (OFTC) offers a range of options in Diesel Equipment Technology, including technical certificates, a diploma, and an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.
The certificates cover various specializations and can be completed shortly. The programs are ASE-approved for certification.
OFTC’s hands-on program lets students work on modern equipment, maintain the college’s truck fleet, and gain real-world experience.
The Diesel Equipment Technology program is certified through Daimler Trucks of North America’s Get Ahead program, allowing students to acquire certifications before entering the workforce. Program durations range from 1 to 5 semesters, offering flexibility.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://oftc.edu/departments/diesel-equipment-technology/
- Phone: 1.877.399.8324
- Address: 1189 Deepstep Road, Sandersville, GA 31082 – North Campus
Gwinnett Technical College
Gwinnett Technical College’s Heavy Diesel Service Technician program combines theory and diagnosis training for diesel engines and heavy equipment systems.
The one-year program covers shop safety, diesel engines, fuel systems, electrical/electronic systems, hydraulics, and power train systems.
Students get hands-on experience through an internship at a local diesel equipment repair facility.
Program options include a Heavy Diesel Technology Diploma, Heavy Diesel Service Technician Certificate, and Diesel Equipment HVAC and Maintenance Technician Certificate.
The Heavy Diesel advisory board ensures a curriculum tailored to high-demand careers in the industry.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://gwinnetttech.edu/heavydiesel/
- Phone: 770-962-7580
- Address: Lawrenceville Campus, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Ogeechee Technical College
Ogeechee Technical College’s Diesel Technology program offers comprehensive training in the theory, diagnosis, and repair of basic systems in diesel engines and equipment.
The curriculum covers shop safety, shop equipment, diesel engines, fuel systems, electrical and electronic systems, off-road power trains, and heavy equipment hydraulics.
Graduates are prepared to enter the industry as entry-level diesel service technicians.
The program includes certificates in Heavy Diesel Service Technician, Diesel Electrical/Electronic Systems Technician, Diesel Engine Service Technician, and Diesel Truck Maintenance Technician.
Contact Info:
- Visit the Website: https://www.ogeecheetech.edu/academics/diesel-technology&
- Phone: (800) 646-1316
- Address: 1 Joe Kennedy Blvd. Statesboro, GA 30458
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I Become a Diesel Mechanic in Georgia? Individuals have the option to enroll in diesel mechanic programs offered by community, vocational, or technical schools, for at least two-year duration.
These programs aim to impart practical skills and techniques essential for diagnosing and repairing diesel-powered vehicles effectively.
What Degree is Best for a Diesel Mechanic?
For those aspiring to be diesel mechanics, choosing a major in automotive technology is recommended, with 57% of diesel mechanics opting for this specialization.
How much do diesel mechanics make in Georgia?
In GA, the average annual salary for a diesel mechanic is $50,500, though individual salaries can range from $23,000 to $84,500.
Various factors, including skills, experience, employer, bonuses, and tips, contribute to the salary variation.
How do I become a licensed mechanic in Georgia?
To become a licensed mechanic in Georgia, individuals must pass at least one relevant exam and possess a minimum of two years of work experience.
Additionally, the state mandates mechanics to obtain a state emissions inspection license, achievable through completing a training program and passing an ASE exam.
Do you need a license to be a mechanic in the US?
While a specific mechanic license may be required for operating an independent shop, the process varies by state.
Many states, including Georgia, offer online portals with detailed information on acquiring the necessary licenses or certifications.
What is the difference between a mechanic and a technician?
Mechanics typically focus on hands-on tasks like oil changes and brake pad replacements. In contrast, automotive technicians engage in both hands-on work and more complex tasks such as electrical diagnosis and addressing drivability issues.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue an educational program in diesel technology in Georgia opens doors to enhanced employment prospects and potential salary boosts, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
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