Diesel Systems Technician

Program Objective

The objective of the Diesel Systems Technician program is to provide quality educational training designed to meet the current and future needs of the bus, truck and diesel systems industry. To accomplish this, the following guidelines are established; assist student to choose, prepare for, enter, and be gainfully employed in the bus, truck and diesel repair field; offer a program which emphasizes sound fundamentals while responding to the needs of this particular industry; provide courses to meet current and specific needs of student and this industry.

Occupational Outlook

O*NET Program Detail

Curriculum Framework

Program Outlook

The Diesel Systems Technician program provides students with the technical knowledge and skills for employment as Truck, Bus, and Diesel Mechanics in the Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Repair Industry. Instruction includes a combination of classroom theory and practical experience. The program also offers supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in Heavy Duty Truck and Bus Repair occupations. This program is certified by the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF). Students are eligible to join SkillsUSA.

Program Content

The content includes but is not limited to maintaining and repairing diesel engines and electrical systems; reconditioning diesel fuel injection systems; overhauling diesel engines; performing diesel engine preventive maintenance, employability skills and safety practices.

Length of Program

The average length of this program is 1800 hours (approximately 18 months) for adult attending full-time. Actual time is dependent upon enrollment status (full- time/part-time) and the length of time the student requires to achieve competencies. This program contains several occupational completion points designed to prepare students for various entry level jobs within this occupational area.

Admission Requirements

Students must be at least 16 years old and not attending high school
Application Interview by a guidance counselor
Fees for supplies and textbooks are required.

Entrance Dates

This program operates on an open-entry, open-exit basis. Students may enter the program anytime during the school year. Entrance is dependent upon space availability. Call (305) 557-1100 for more information.

Career Opportunities

Bus, Truck and Diesel Engine Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic Helper, Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Fleet Maintenance Technician, Industrial Truck Mechanic, Service Writer, Service Manager.

Graduation Requirements

Completion of all Occupational Completion Points (OCP’s)
Satisfy Basic Skills Requirements
Mathematics 11 Language 10 Reading 10
No financial obligations
Students must complete the Clearance packet to receive program certificate.

OCP	Course Number	Course Title	Course Length
A	DIM0101	Diesel Engine Mechanic/Technician Helper	150 hours
B	DIM0131	Diesel Air Brakes Technician	150 hours
C	DIM0153	Diesel Preventive Maintenance Technician	300 hours

Program Cost

In-state residents—$2.56 per hour (Subject to change)
Out of state resident—$10.25 per hour (Subject to change)
$15.00 application fee
Material fee—Varies by program
Identification Card fee—$5.00 per trimester
Students must purchase books/kits and/or uniforms, if applicable

Program Hours

Monday—Friday 8:00 am—1:40 pm
Monday—Friday 5:30 pm—10:30 pm

Approximate Total Cost

$5,250.00

Employment Requirements

Employers prefer that diesel service technicians and mechanics complete a program at a postsecondary institution.
Industry certification, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is usually required once the person is employed.
EPA licensure for technicians working with refrigerants.

Salary

According to the 2017 Bureau of Labor Statics the median pay for a Diesel Service Technician was $47,350 per year or $22.76 per hour. Visit: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/