Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Missouri
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Missouri.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Missouri
Missouri offers associate degrees and certificates focused on medium/heavy trucks, construction machinery and agricultural diesel equipment.
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 Missouri
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Missouri 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 Missouri is approximately $1,280 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in Missouri
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 Missouri
Missouri diesel mechanics commonly complete college diesel technology training followed by supervised fleet, dealership or equipment-repair experience.
- Study medium/heavy truck engines, electrical systems, brakes, drivetrains, hydraulics and preventive maintenance.
- Complete cooperative work experience, an internship or employer technician training.
- Obtain ASE, EPA Section 609, inspection or CDL credentials when required by the position.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Missouri
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| St. Louis Community College | St. Louis | View Program |
| Crowder College | Neosho | View Program |
| Three Rivers College | Sikeston | View Program |
| State Technical College of Missouri | Linn | 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 Missouri
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Missouri
Missouri does not require a general state license for diesel mechanics. Separate authorization may be necessary for regulated vehicle inspections, refrigerant work or commercial driving.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Missouri
Employment is projected to grow 3%, from approximately 7,000 diesel mechanics in 2024 to 7,230 in 2034, with about 590 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 Missouri?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Missouri is approximately $59,360 per year, or $28.54 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Missouri require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in Missouri. 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 Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 3% from 2024 to 2034, with about 590 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
- Missouri Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Missouri Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Missouri Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Missouri Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Missouri Division of Professional Registration — Licensing authority. Missouri Division of Professional Registration