Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May of 2021, the median annual diesel technician salary was $48,690. This equates to $23.41 per hour.
In 2022, Randall Reilly published a research report that provided the annual pay, before taxes, but including overtime, bonuses and incentives for heavy-duty trucking diesel technician. This report stated:
- 9% earned $40,000-$49,999 annually.
- 22% earned $50,000-$59,999 annually.
- 15% earned $60,000-$69,999 annually.
- 23% earned $70,000-$79,999 annually.
- 10% earned $80,000-$89,999 annually.
Like all jobs, though, how much a diesel technician makes in 2023 depends on a variety of factors.
What influences how much a diesel technician makes in 2023?
1. What type of diesel technician you are.
Typically, diesel technicians who have more advanced skills earn more. For example, at Schneider, a master technician or a lead technician earns more than an entry level diesel technician does.
Furthermore, diesel technicians who become highly specialized in one area (tractor, trailer, bulk, refrigerated, etc.) are typically compensated with a higher wage 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 tech 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 these types of workers are 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 also earn a higher wage at Schneider.
5. If you work overtime.
Additionally, while diesel technicians average about 40 hours per week, those interested in earning additional pay can usually take advantage of overtime.
Most diesel technicians earn an hourly rate, including those who work at Schneider, which means they are paid extra when they work over 40 hours in a week. Plus, many employers, like Schneider, pay diesel technicians a higher rate per hour when working overtime.
6. Where you live.
Where you live can influence how much you make as a diesel technician. At Schneider, for example, pay rates vary by shop location, as rates are based on the cost of labor in that 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.
Check out Schneider's full list of benefits for diesel technicians.
