Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Montana
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Montana.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Montana
Montana technicians commonly train through two-year colleges and employer programs serving agriculture, construction, mining, trucking, logging, and public fleets.
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 Montana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Montana 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 Montana is approximately $2,460 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in Montana
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 Montana
Montana diesel mechanics typically complete diesel technology education and receive paid, supervised training in a truck, agricultural, construction-equipment, or fleet shop.
- Complete a certificate or associate degree in diesel technology or obtain equivalent employer-based training.
- Study diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, air brakes, drivetrains, welding, and electronic diagnostics.
- Obtain EPA Section 609 certification when servicing mobile air-conditioning systems.
- Meet federal annual-inspector and brake-inspector qualification requirements for regulated commercial vehicle work.
- Earn ASE or manufacturer certifications for advanced diagnostic and equipment-service positions.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Montana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Montana State University–Northern – Diesel Technology | Havre | View Program |
| Helena College – Diesel Technology | Helena | View Program |
| City College at Montana State University Billings – Diesel Technology | Billings | View Program |
| Highlands College of Montana Tech – Automotive Technology | Butte | 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 Montana
Montana Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Montana Department of Labor and Industry
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Montana
Montana does not require a statewide occupational license for general diesel mechanics. A CDL, EPA refrigerant credential, federal commercial-vehicle inspection qualification, or employer-required equipment certification may apply.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Montana
Montana’s long-distance freight routes and equipment-dependent agriculture, mining, construction, and forestry sectors should support strong demand for qualified diesel mechanics.
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 Montana?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Montana is approximately $63,100 per year, or $30.34 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Montana require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in Montana. 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 Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 7.6% from 2022 to 2032. 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
- Montana Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Montana Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Montana Motor Vehicle Division — Licensing authority. Montana Motor Vehicle Division