Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Louisiana
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Louisiana.
Career Guide Navigation
How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Louisiana
Louisiana diesel programs prepare students to repair trucks, construction machinery, agricultural equipment and industrial diesel systems. Coursework commonly includes HVAC, planetary gears, hydraulics, electronics and preventive maintenance.
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 Louisiana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Louisiana 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 Louisiana is approximately $1,960 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in Louisiana
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 Louisiana
Louisiana diesel mechanics usually complete technical-college training followed by supervised experience in trucking, marine, construction, agricultural or industrial equipment repair.
- Train in diesel engines, fuel systems, electrical diagnostics, drivetrains, hydraulics and mobile HVAC.
- Complete practical shop experience and consider ASE Medium/Heavy Truck certification.
- Obtain separate approval for official motor-vehicle inspections and EPA Section 609 or CDL credentials when applicable.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Louisiana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College | Minden | View Program |
| SOWELA Technical Community College | Lake Charles | View Program |
| Delgado Community College | New Orleans | View Program |
| Louisiana Delta Community College | Monroe | 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 Louisiana
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Louisiana
Louisiana does not require a general occupational license for ordinary diesel repair employees. Mechanics conducting official commercial-vehicle or school-bus inspections must satisfy Louisiana Motor Vehicle Inspection requirements, which can include training, experience and current ASE diesel credentials.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Louisiana
Employment is projected to grow 2%, from approximately 3,260 diesel mechanics in 2024 to 3,320 in 2034, with about 270 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 Louisiana?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Louisiana is approximately $58,680 per year, or $28.21 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Louisiana require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 2% from 2024 to 2034, with about 270 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
- Louisiana Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Louisiana Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Louisiana Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Louisiana Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Louisiana State Police — Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance — Licensing authority. Louisiana State Police — Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance