Thinking about a career where your hands, skills, and problem-solving can make a difference? Diesel mechanics are professionals who keep the world moving—literally. This profession isn’t just limited to the trucking industry; there is a variety of industries and environments where diesel mechanics may work, including courier services and the natural gas industry.
From trucks and buses to farm and construction equipment, as well as heavy machinery like cranes, mobile equipment, and even working aboard a ship, nearly every major industry across the country relies on skilled diesel technicians to keep fleets running safely and efficiently. For example, airport mechanics may service cranes, while marine diesel mechanics work on ships, and others maintain mobile equipment for research or environmental programs.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top companies hiring diesel mechanics in 2025, what they pay, and what it’s like to work there. You’ll also learn how to get started in the field, from certifications and apprenticeships to specialized training programs that can help you land your first job faster. These companies were selected based on publicly available hiring data and salary averages in 2025 from ZipRecruiter, Indeed, and Glassdoor.
Key Takeaways
- The top companies hiring in 2025 include Republic Services, Penske, FedEx Freight, UPS, and Cummins.
- Many employers now seek technicians trained in hybrid, electric-diesel, and advanced diagnostic systems.
- Trade schools and apprenticeships remain the most practical paths into the diesel field, often requiring less than two years of study.
What is a Diesel Mechanic?
Before we take a deep dive into the top companies hiring diesel mechanics, let’s first outline what exactly a diesel technician is.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a diesel technician inspects, diagnoses, and repairs diesel-powered vehicles, machinery, and mobile equipment across transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors.1 Diesel mechanics are not only truck mechanics; many earn degrees or certifications in diesel technology to advance into engineering or supervisory roles. Major industries like transportation, commercial generators, agriculture, and construction depend on diesel technicians for maintenance and repairs.
Diesel engines differ from natural gas engines in compression ratio and torque output, making them ideal for work that includes heavy equipment. Because of this, diesel technicians must understand mechanical systems as well as advanced computer diagnostics and emissions controls.
How to Get a Diesel Mechanic Job
To land a diesel mechanic role, you’ll need the right mix of education, hands-on training, and industry credentials. Getting a job placement helps when you start with the right steps. You need technical skills and basic knowledge of construction equipment. Employers also look for someone who knows how to do routine maintenance and preventative maintenance.
- Get a degree. Postsecondary education or certification in diesel or automotive technology can help you get started.
- Get an ASE diesel certification. Industry-recognized ASE certifications verify credibility and skill level.
- Create a professional resume and cover letter. Presentation still matters for skilled trades.
- Use job boards. Platforms like Indeed are great at helping you find job openings in your area.
Aspiring diesel technicians can also enter the field through trade schools or registered apprenticeship programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping candidates gain experience while avoiding student debt.
Top diesel mechanic training programs in 2025 include:
- Universal Technical Institute (UTI) – Offers hands-on Diesel Technology training with manufacturer partnerships.
- Lincoln Tech – Diesel and Truck Technology programs emphasizing fleet maintenance fundamentals.
- WyoTech – Accelerated nine-month Diesel Technology diploma focused on heavy-equipment diagnostics.
Top Companies Hiring Diesel Mechanics in 2025
These are some employers actively recruiting diesel mechanics in 2025 across sectors like logistics, waste management, and defense. Reliable diesel technicians remain essential for the supply chain, construction, and fleet reliability nationwide.
| Company | Average Annual Pay |
|---|---|
| Ryder System | $59,346 |
| Penske Truck Leasing | $58,673 |
| FedEx Freight | $60,394 |
| UPS | $58,798 |
| Cummins | $58,798 |
| Aerotek | $60,444 |
| U.S. Army | $58,798 |
| Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores | $83,737* |
| Sunbelt Rentals | $50,345 |
*Salary information as of October 2025, according to Indeed.
Ryder System
Ryder is an American logistics, supply chain, and transportation solutions company. The company hires diesel technicians to maintain its heavy-duty vehicles across the U.S. The average annual salary of a diesel mechanic at Ryder as of August 2025 is about $59,346 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.2
Ryder Reviews
Glassdoor reviews rate the company around 3.4 out of 5 stars.11 Employees highlight opportunities for advancement, though employees report low work-life balance and a disorganized work environment.
Penske Truck Leasing
Penske Truck Leasing provides commercial truck rentals and logistics management across North America, South America, Asia, and Europe. According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay of a diesel mechanic at Penske is about $58,673 per year, with competitive benefits and room for advancement.3
Penske Truck Leasing Reviews
Employee reviews rate working at Penske 3.4 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, as of October 2025.12 The general consensus is that the company offers decent pay; however, they also cite long hours and a toxic work environment.
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is a leading less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier with over 25,000 vehicles in operation. Diesel mechanics at FedEx Freight earn an average salary of $60,394 per year, as of August 2025—above the national median for the field.4
FedEx Freight Reviews
Employees give the company high marks—3.6 out of 5 stars—or excellent career training and development.13 Reviews also mention supportive teams and flexible schedules.
UPS
UPS employs thousands of diesel technicians to service delivery and freight trucks worldwide. Diesel mechanics earn approximately $58,798 annually and benefit from career advancement opportunities.5
UPS Reviews
Employee feedback in October 2025, according to Glassdoor, emphasizes excellent benefits and pay; however, reviews note that physical demands and long hours tend to be common in peak seasons.14
Cummins
Cummins designs and manufactures advanced diesel and hybrid power systems. Diesel technicians at Cummins earn around $58,798 per year, depending on experience and region.6 The company is a global leader in clean-engine technology and emission solutions.
Cummins Reviews
Glassdoor reviews in October 2025 show strong marks—with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.15 Employees appreciate the company’s career development but cite modest pay growth over time.
Aerotek
Aerotek connects diesel mechanics to contract roles in logistics, aviation, and manufacturing. Diesel technicians working at Aerotek report average earnings of $60,444 per year in October 2025, according to ZipRecruiter.7
Aerotek Reviews
Although roughly 55% of employees would recommend working at Aerotek as of October 2025, Glassdoor reviews praise Aerotek’s vibrant workplace and corporate culture.16
U.S. Army
The U.S. Army employs diesel mechanics to maintain tactical vehicles and heavy equipment worldwide. The average annual salary in October 2025 for military diesel technicians is approximately $58,798, with full benefits and paid training.8
U.S. Army Reviews
The Glassdoor employee rating in October 2025 averages out to 3.8 out of 5 stars.17 Soldiers cite great leadership and training opportunities, job security, and stable salaries, though long hours can get in the way of work-life balance.
Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores
Love’s Travel Stops operates over 560 truck stops nationwide and hires certified diesel technicians for its Truck Care centers. Diesel mechanics earn about $83,737 annually as of October 2025, according to Indeed, with additional bonuses and benefits packages.9
Love’s Travel Stops Reviews
Employee feedback on Glassdoor as of October 2025 generally describes the culture as supportive. Some reviews note solid benefits and upward mobility, while also mentioning operational inefficiencies and supply chain issues.18
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Sunbelt Rentals
Sunbelt Rentals provides construction and industrial equipment services across North America. Diesel technicians at Sunbelt earn $50,345 annually, as of August 2025, depending on skill level and experience.10
Sunbelt Rentals Reviews
Glassdoor reviews, as of October 2025, praise the company’s career development opportunities and the fact that it prioritizes safety, but note that understaffing can lead to overwork and stress.19
Diesel Mechanic Salary Comparison by State
Diesel mechanics’ median wages vary widely by state, influenced by the cost of living and industry concentration. According to data from Zippia in 2025, the 10 top-paying states include:20
- Alaska – $61,033
- Washington – $60,343
- Connecticut – $61,110
- Nevada – $53,453
- Rhode Island – $61,259
- New Hampshire – $56,882
- Maine – $53,641
- Wyoming – $50,929
- New York – $58,928
- Vermont – $53,594
Why You Should Become a Diesel Mechanic in 2025
Diesel mechanics enjoy hands-on work and paths to advanced roles in evolving vehicle fleets. Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow two percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations.21
The future of diesel technology includes hybrid electric-diesel systems, advanced emissions sensors, and predictive analytics tools that monitor vehicle health in real time. Diesel maintenance work remains largely hands-on and resistant to automation, offering potential for long-term employment prospects.
Top Companies for Diesel Mechanics FAQ
What is the highest-paying diesel mechanic job?
According to data from ZipRecruiter in 2025, the top-paying diesel mechanic roles include diesel engineer, fleet technician, and truck service electrician.
What state is best for diesel mechanics?
According to data from Zippia, high-paying states in 2025 include Alaska, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.20
What is the demand for diesel mechanics?
Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow by two percent from 2024 to 2034, reflecting steady long-term demand.21
How long does it take to become a diesel mechanic?
It depends on the specific route you take; however, the BLS suggests that it can take inexperienced diesel engine repair trainees roughly three to four years before they’re considered a journey-level diesel technician.22
Sources
2 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/ryder-system/Salaries/Diesel-Mechanic-Salary
3 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/Penske/Salaries/Diesel-Mechanic-Salary
4 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/fedex-freight/Salaries/Maintenance-Mechanic-Technician-Salary
5 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Ups-Diesel-Mechanic-Salary#Yearly
6 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cummins-Diesel-Mechanic-Salary#Yearly
7 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/aerotek/Salaries/Diesel-Mechanic-Salary
8 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Military-Diesel-Mechanic-Salary#Yearly
10 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/Sunbelt-Rentals/Salaries/Diesel-Mechanic-Salary
11 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Ryder-System-Reviews-E575.htm
12 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Penske-Reviews-E2933.htm
13 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/FedEx-Freight-Reviews-E15813.htm
14 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/UPS-Reviews-E3012.htm
15 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Cummins-Reviews-E187.htm
16 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Aerotek-Reviews-E18267.htm
17 https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-US-Army-EI_IE41322.11,18.htm
19 https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Sunbelt-Rentals-Reviews-E19665.htm
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