Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Colorado
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Colorado.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Colorado
Colorado programs prepare technicians for medium- and heavy-duty truck work through engine rebuilding, electrical diagnostics, brakes, suspension, air systems and emissions-control training.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Diesel Mechanic Salary in Colorado
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Colorado median wage for diesel mechanic workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $60,640, the median wage in Colorado is approximately $9,840 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in Colorado
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONDiesel Mechanic Training Requirements in Colorado
Colorado diesel technicians commonly enter through a technical college, private trade school or dealer-sponsored training pathway.
- Train in diesel engine diagnosis, electronic controls, air brakes, suspension, drivetrains and emissions systems.
- Gain supervised experience with trucks, construction machinery or fleet equipment.
- Consider ASE certification and obtain EPA Section 609, CDL or emissions-related credentials when required.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Colorado
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln College of Technology | Denver | View Program |
| CMU Tech — Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction | View Program |
| Pikes Peak State College | Colorado Springs | View Program |
| Community College of Aurora | Aurora | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESDiesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Programs in Colorado
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Colorado
Colorado does not require an individual occupational license for general diesel mechanics. EPA refrigerant certification, CDL qualifications and emissions or inspection credentials may apply to specific assignments.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Colorado
Colorado has the strongest projected growth in this group: employment is expected to increase 10%, from approximately 4,850 workers in 2024 to 5,350 in 2034, with about 480 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the diesel mechanic salary in Colorado?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Colorado is approximately $70,480 per year, or $33.87 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Colorado require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in Colorado. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become a diesel mechanic in Colorado?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 1–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are diesel mechanics in demand in Colorado?
Colorado projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 10% from 2024 to 2034, with about 480 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Colorado Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Colorado Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Division of Professions and Occupations — Licensing authority. Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Division of Professions and Occupations