How to Hire Diesel Technicians in 2025: What Employers Need to Know

Diesel Technicians are in high demand across RV, heavy equipment, logistics, marine, and dealership environments. Whether you need a tech for off-road machinery, in-shop diagnostics, or mobile fleet maintenance, finding qualified diesel talent isn’t getting any easier. With job openings far outpacing the number of trained candidates, businesses need to understand what these roles involve—and how to attract the right people.

This blog breaks down how to become a Diesel Technician, the current labor market, and why SourceLine’s targeted sourcing approach works for industries struggling to fill these roles.

What Does a Diesel Technician Do?

Diesel Technicians (also called Diesel Mechanics) inspect, diagnose, and repair diesel engines and related systems. They keep trucks, RVs, construction equipment, boats, and more running safely and efficiently.

Common Responsibilities:

• Diagnose engine and electrical issues

• Perform routine maintenance and safety checks

• Repair or replace transmissions, fuel systems, brakes, and hydraulics

• Work on mobile units, service bays, or in-field equipment

Where Diesel Techs Work:

• Commercial truck fleets

• RV service centers

• Marine repair shops

• Heavy equipment dealerships

• Mobile service operations

• Equipment rental companies and local dealers

Training, Certification, and Tools

Most Diesel Technicians start with a high school diploma or GED. From there, they might go straight into an entry-level role with on-the-job training, or attend a technical school.

Common Credentials:

• ASE Certification (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence)

• Manufacturer certifications (Cummins, CAT, Detroit Diesel, etc.)

• DOT Inspection or Air Brake certifications (for certain fleets)

• EPA 609 Certification (for A/C work)

Techs also need their own tools—many start building their toolbox early and grow it over time.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Job growth: 3% from 2023–2033 (average pace)

• Total open roles: 300,200 jobs nationwide

• Annual openings: ~25,600 per year

And that’s just the baseline. Many roles pay more depending on industry, location, and shift. In fields like heavy equipment and marine, certified techs with diagnostics or welding skills can earn well above average.

Why Diesel Tech Recruiting Is So Tough

It’s not just that there aren’t enough Diesel Technicians—it’s that every shop is looking for slightly different things.

• Techs specialize. Someone trained in Class 8 trucks might not be a match for a marine or RV role—and automotive techs are a different industry altogether.

• Shifts aren’t ideal. Many new techs start on second or third shift, which can deter younger workers.

• Job boards are overwhelming. Techs see the same recycled job posts and don’t know who to trust.

Most diesel technicians find jobs by word of mouth or direct outreach—not from cold applications. That’s where SourceLine comes in.

How SourceLine Helps Businesses Hire Diesel Technicians

At SourceLine, we don’t post jobs and wait. We identify your exact needs and actively reach out to techs who match what you're looking for. Whether you need someone skilled in diagnostics, hydraulics, field service, or trailer repair—we’ll help you find the right fit.

Our sourcing process:

• No commissions or contracts

• U.S.-based outreach—no bots or overseas outsourcing

• Candidates sourced based on your real hiring needs

We work within our specialized industries supporting shops, fleets, dealerships, and mobile repair businesses nationwide. Diesel talent is our specialty.

FAQ: Diesel Technician Careers

What industries hire diesel techs?

You’ll find diesel technicians working in service centers, dealerships, and field roles within logistics, RV, heavy equipment, agriculture, marine, and more.

Do diesel techs need ASE certification?

It’s not always required, but many employers prefer or pay more for certified candidates.

Is this a good career path for tradespeople?

Yes—diesel techs are in demand and often earn high wages with long-term job security.

How long does it take to become a diesel tech?

You can enter the field with a year of trade school or an apprenticeship. Most techs develop experience over several years and continue training as they go.

FAQ: Hiring Diesel Techs with SourceLine

What types of diesel roles does SourceLine help fill?

We specialize in skilled trades staffing, including:

• Diesel Technicians for Class 8 fleets

• Off-road and heavy machinery repair

• RV diesel engine service

• Marine diesel diagnostics and repair

• RV, Marine and Heavy Equipment Dealership and service center diesel techs

Can you find techs for mobile service technician roles?

Yes—we source both shop-based and field-based diesel techs within our specialized industries. Just tell us what you need.

About SourceLineSourceLine is a direct hire recruiting partner for skilled trades roles in the RV, Marine, Powersports, Heavy Truck and Equipment, and Solar industries. We connect service-driven companies with qualified, prescreened candidates through targeted outreach and industry-specific recruiting.

Whether you're hiring technicians, service staff, or field operations talent, we help you move fast and hire confidently — without relying on job ads or wasting time on unqualified applicants.

Learn more at www.thesourceline.com

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SourceLine does not recruit within the Automotive or Automotive Collision industries.