Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in North Dakota
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in North Dakota.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in North Dakota
Technicians may complete diesel technology programs and obtain paid experience with agricultural, energy, construction, trucking, equipment-dealership, or public-fleet employers.
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 North Dakota
The salary figure shown on this page represents the North Dakota 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 North Dakota is approximately $6,960 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in North Dakota
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 North Dakota
North Dakota diesel mechanics typically complete a diesel technology program and gain supervised experience servicing trucks, agricultural machinery, or heavy equipment.
- Complete a certificate, diploma, or associate degree in diesel technology.
- Train in engines, electronic controls, air brakes, hydraulics, drivetrains, emissions systems, and preventive maintenance.
- Obtain EPA Section 609 certification before servicing mobile air-conditioning systems.
- Meet federal annual-inspector and brake-inspector qualification requirements when applicable.
- Obtain a CDL if commercial vehicle operation or road testing is an assigned duty.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in North Dakota
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota State College of Science – Diesel Technology | Wahpeton | View Program |
| Bismarck State College – Diesel Technology | Bismarck | View Program |
| Lake Region State College – Precision Agriculture/Diesel Training | Devils Lake | View Program |
| Williston State College – Diesel Technology | Williston | 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 North Dakota
Diesel Technician Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: North Dakota Department of Commerce
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in North Dakota
North Dakota does not require a general diesel mechanic license. CDL, refrigerant, federal inspection, and employer or manufacturer qualifications may apply to particular duties.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in North Dakota
Energy production, agriculture, freight transportation, construction, and severe winter operating conditions support continuing demand for diesel technicians in North Dakota.
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 North Dakota?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in North Dakota is approximately $67,600 per year, or $32.50 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does North Dakota require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in North Dakota. 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 North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 6.3% 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
- North Dakota Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. North Dakota Diesel Mechanic Wages
- North Dakota Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. North Dakota Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- North Dakota Department of Transportation – Driver License Division — Licensing authority. North Dakota Department of Transportation – Driver License Division