Man inspecting a diesel engine
Diesel Equipment & Truck

Big opportunities in high torque careers

If you like working on big machines and solving complex mechanical problems, a career in diesel technology might be a great fit. Diesel technicians keep the world moving by maintaining and repairing the engines that power trucks, buses, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and more. These engines are built to last, but they need skilled hands and sharp minds to stay running smoothly. Diesel work requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to keep learning as systems become more advanced with new emissions technology and electronics. It’s a high-demand field with excellent job stability, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work in a variety of industries, from transportation and logistics to farming and heavy equipment.

Bus and Truck Mechanics

Maintain or repair any type of diesel engine.

Median to Top Salary

$65,000 - $90,400

Future Outlook*

2,467 OPENINGS

Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics

Repair and maintain very large vehicles such as cranes, bulldozers, graders or conveyers.

Median to Top Salary

$74,200 - $93,200

Future Outlook*

1,358 OPENINGS

Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians

Repair and maintain farm equipment.

Median to Top Salary

$60,900 - $75,000

Future Outlook*

693 OPENINGS

Excavating and Loading Machine Operators

Operate machines to remove and load loose material.

Median to Top Salary

$73,800 - $97,500

Future Outlook*

371 OPENINGS

Find the right college for you

Minnesota State has 25 colleges with transportation related program pathways. Below is the list of colleges that support these career pathways. Expand each one to see what each college offers!

Campus Location
1601 Jefferson St, Alexandria, MN 56308
Degrees / Diplomas / Certificates
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Alexandria technical and community college exterior shot
Campus Location
2200 Riverland Dr, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Degrees / Diplomas / Certificates
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Campus Location
235 Marshall Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Degrees / Diplomas / Certificates
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*All data is from the Minnesota State Transportation Center of Excellence’s Demand Analysis and Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development Labor Market Information. *Future Outlook is the number of job openings over the next five years.

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