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Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

THE JOB

BUS AND TRUCK MECHANICS AND DIESEL ENGINE SPECIALISTS keep the equipment
under their care operating safely, dependably and economically.  Some work
mostly on diesel engines of equipment such as farm machines, ships,
locomotives, compressors and pumps used in oil well drilling and in
irrigation.  Others work mainly on construction equipment such as cranes,
power shovels, bulldozers and paving machines.  Mechanics work on diesel and
gasoline-powered vehicles such as buses and trucks.  They may also work on
equipment such as earth movers and graders.

Mechanics' duties vary with shop policy as well as the type of equipment
they work on.  In engine building shops, some mechanics repair and adjust
engines to restore them to good working order, while others specialize in
parts of the engine such as fuel injection systems.  Mechanics who work in 
garages or heavy equipment shops usually have more varied duties.  They may
work on engines, transmissions, differentials, chassis, brakes, steering
gears and front ends, as well as on motors, compressors, hydraulic and
electrical systems.  Depending on shop policy, mechanics have the option to
specialize in certain parts of the machine or vehicle they repair.  All
mechanics diagnose problems and dismantle, clean, repair, refit, assemble
and test the equipment according to manufacturers' manuals and
specifications.  Mechanics use pressure gauges, precision instruments,
torque wrenches and other hand tools to perform their duties.


WORKING CONDITIONS

Most mechanics work in repair shops that may be noisy, greasy and dirty.  Some
mechanics work outdoors in all kinds of weather.

The work requires considerable physical activity including some heavy
lifting.  Mechanics may stand, stoop, kneel and crouch during the course of
their work.

Hazards in this occupation include exposure to fumes, hand and finger
injuries, burns from hot surfaces and the possibility of electrical shock
from ignition systems.

Mechanics are expected to have their own tools and precision instruments,
which can cost from $1,000 to over $5,000.  Employers also provide tools and
power equipment.

Mechanics may join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace
Workers.  In the construction industry they may belong to the Operating
Engineers Union.


EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

The following information is from the California Projections of Employment
published by the Labor Market Information Division.

Estimated number of workers in 1993             19,840
Estimated number of workers in 2005             26,800
Projected Growth 1993-2005                         35%
Estimated openings due to separations by 2005    5,660

(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)

Employment of this group of mechanics is expected to increase faster than
the average for all occupations through 2005.  As freight transportation
increases, demand should remain steady during the next few years.  The
number of job openings will result almost equally from industry expansion
and from the need to replace mechanics who retire or leave the occupation
for other reasons.

Although the job market appears to be good for experienced mechanics, the
market for trainees or inexperienced workers is still competitive.

The introduction of computerized components requires that mechanics improve
their skill in electronic repair and troubleshooting.  Qualified,
experienced mechanics will have little difficulty in finding a job.


WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS

Wages vary by area, but the hourly median wage for Bus and Truck Mechanics
and Diesel Engine Specialists in California is $16.69.  Experienced
mechanics can earn over $24 per hour.

Fringe benefits include dental, vision, life insurance, paid vacations and
retirement plans.  The standard workweek is 40 hours.  Most shops provide
clean uniforms.


ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING

High school graduation is not necessary but it is preferred.  Most employers
will substitute experience for education.  Recommended school subjects
include auto shop, metal shop, machine shop and science. Good reading and
basic math skills are needed to study technical manuals and to keep up with
new technology and repair procedures.

Employers generally hire mechanics with one to five years of experience.
They may also hire applicants with two to three years of technical and trade
school training. Some employers will hire applicants who show mechanical
ability, or who have a lot of automobile mechanical experience.  Many small
employers tend to hire experienced mechanics.

Applicants may be required to take a pre-employment physical exam and a drug
test.  Required lifting can range from 50-70 pounds.  Essential skills
include the ability to use hand and precision tools, diagnostic equipment,
skill in electrical troubleshooting and general engine repair.

Union apprenticeships are available.  Apprentices must have a high school 
diploma or its equivalent and be at least 18 years old.  Apprenticeship programs
usually last four years.


ADVANCEMENT

For diesel mechanics, advancement is primarily in the form of more money and
better assignments.  Both result from increased experience and skill;
occasionally formal training in new equipment is available and helpful.
Diesel mechanics may also be promoted to supervisory positions, but
opportunities are limited and competition is keen.  A few mechanics advance 
to positions such as field service engineer or parts and supplies account 
representative.


FINDING THE JOB

Job seekers should apply directly with employers and unions.  Applicants who
attend trade schools should also consult with the school's placement office.
Newspaper advertisements are another source of job leads.  Job seekers may
also contact the local Workforce Services Office of the California Employment
Development Department.


ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Locals of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
and locals of the Operating Engineers Union often have information concerning
job availability.


RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES

Automobile Mechanics              No. 24
Automobile Body Repairers         No. 68


OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES

DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed.,1991)
Maintenance Mechanic         620.281-046
Mechanic, Industrial Truck   620.281-050
Diesel Mechanic              625.281-010

OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System
Bus and Truck Mechanics           853110


Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
        Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
        (916) 262-2162.