Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Oregon
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Oregon.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Oregon
Oregon offers diesel programs focused on trucks, agricultural machinery, forestry equipment, marine engines and modern electronic emissions systems. Several programs include internships and manufacturer-supported 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 Oregon
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Oregon 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 Oregon is approximately $3,330 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics in Oregon
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 Oregon
Oregon diesel mechanics generally complete technical education and supervised experience with trucks, agricultural machinery, forestry equipment or marine engines.
- Study engine overhaul, electronics, hydraulics, powertrains, air brakes and emissions-control systems.
- Complete an internship, cooperative work experience or manufacturer-supported training component.
- Consider ASE certification and obtain EPA Section 609, CDL or emissions-inspector credentials when required.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Oregon
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Chemeketa Community College | Brooks | View Program |
| Linn-Benton Community College | Albany | View Program |
| Portland Community College | Portland | View Program |
| Southwestern Oregon Community College | Coos Bay | 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 Oregon
AGCO NexTECH/Diesel Internship Pathway
Organization: Chemeketa Community College and AGCO
Daimler Get Ahead Program
Organization: Daimler Truck and Chemeketa Community College
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Oregon
Oregon does not require a general state occupational license for employee diesel mechanics. Separate credentials may apply to mobile A/C refrigerant work, commercial driving, emissions inspection or particular public-fleet positions.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Oregon
Employment is projected to grow 5%, from approximately 4,830 diesel mechanics in 2024 to 5,060 in 2034, with about 420 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 Oregon?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Oregon is approximately $63,970 per year, or $30.76 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Oregon require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic workers in Oregon. 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 Oregon?
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 Oregon?
Oregon projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 420 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
- Oregon Wages for Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Oregon Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services — Licensing authority. Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services