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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May of 2023, the median annual diesel technician salary was $58,970. This equates to $28.35 per hour.
Schneider invests in its diesel technicians by providing a results-based incentive pay program where associates can earn above and beyond their base pay, as well as an award-winning benefits package.
Like all jobs, though, how much a diesel technician makes depends on many different factors. Take a look at a breakdown of those factors below.
What influences how much a diesel technician makes in 2025?
1. What type of diesel technician you are.
Typically, diesel technicians who have advanced skills earn more. For example, at Schneider, a master technician or a lead technician earns more than an entry level diesel technician does.
Plus, those who become highly specialized in one area (such as tractor, trailer, bulk, refrigerated, etc.) are typically compensated with higher diesel technician wages due to their unique skillset.
2. If you have a degree.
Generally, someone with a technical degree in diesel technology will earn a higher starting diesel technician salary than someone without one.
3. How much industry experience you have.
How long you have been in the industry typically impacts how much you make as a diesel technician.
For example, a diesel technician with eight years of shop experience would most likely earn a higher hourly rate than a diesel technician with no experience.
4. What hours and days you work.
Diesel technicians usually have the option to work first, second, or third shift and weekends, as many companies that employ them have 24/7 operations.
Those who choose a non-traditional work schedule are often compensated extra for it. At Schneider, for example, diesel technicians on second and third shift earn a $1.50 per hour shift differential. Those who work on weekends earn a $0.65 per hour shift differential.
5. If you work overtime.
While diesel technicians average about 40 hours per week, those interested in earning extra pay can usually take advantage of overtime.
Most diesel technicians earn an hourly rate, including those who work at Schneider. This means they are paid extra when they work more than 40 hours in a week. Plus, many employers, like Schneider, pay diesel technicians a higher rate per hour when they’re working overtime.
6. Where you live.
Where you live can impact how much you make as a diesel technician. At Schneider, for example, pay rates vary by shop location. That’s because rates are based on the cost of labor in each geographical region.
7. Who you work for.
In addition to a paycheck, some companies offer other forms of compensation in the form of benefits.
Some of the benefits Schneider offers, for example, include:
- Medical, dental and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Company-provided uniforms and tools.
- Discounts on boots.
- Company-paid training.
- Annual Incentive Program.
