As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Diesel Technician III in the United States is $63,490 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $31.
However, a Diesel Technician III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Diesel Technician III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Diesel Technician III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Engine Mechanic I | 0-1 years | $49,895 |
| Diesel Engine Mechanic II | 1-3 years | $56,077 |
| Diesel Technician III | 3-5 years | $63,490 |
| Diesel Maintenance Supervisor | 5+ years | $76,954 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Diesel Technician IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Dedication | 10.5% |
| Technical Services | 2.53% |
| Visual Inspection | 2.07% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Honesty and Integrity
|
$76,823 |
21%
|
|
Dedication
|
$67,299 |
6%
|
|
Presentation
|
$67,299 |
6%
|
|
Integrity
|
$66,665 |
5%
|
|
Technical Services
|
$66,030 |
4%
|
|
Troubleshooting
|
$66,030 |
4%
|
Diesel Technician III salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $71,073. While startup companies pay approximate $60,126.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $60,126 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $63,591 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $68,634 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $71,073 |
For Diesel Technician III roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Internet and Construction sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Diesel Technician positions in Telecom or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Diesel Technician III as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet | $82,537 | $40.0 | 30% |
| Construction | $76,188 | $37.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $73,014 | $35.0 | 15% |
| Software & Networking | $73,014 | $35.0 | 15% |
| Transportation | $71,744 | $34.0 | 13% |
Understanding how a Diesel Technician III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Diesel Technician III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Maintenance Supervisor | $77,000 | 21% |
| Automotive Service Technician IV | $67,500 | 6% |
Salaries for a Diesel Technician III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $52,606 in 2023 to around $51,946 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Diesel Technician III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $52,606 |
| 2024 | $52,338 |
| 2025 | $51,946 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Internet industry offers the highest average compensation for Diesel Technician III roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
The diesel mechanic trade is not dying; in fact, it remains essential due to the ongoing demand for diesel engines in various industries. With a salary range from $61,790 to $75,790, skilled diesel technicians are well-compensated for their expertise. The need for maintenance and repair of diesel vehicles ensures a stable job market for these professionals.
A diesel technician in the US earns an annual salary ranging from $61,790 to $75,790. On average, this translates to a monthly pay of approximately $5,157 to $6,316. The midpoint salary is around $68,790, which equates to about $5,732 per month.
While diesel technicians work on Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) that require drivers to have a Class A or Class B CDL, most diesel technicians do not need a CDL themselves. The salary for diesel technicians ranges from $61,790 to $75,790, with a median salary of $68,790, reflecting the skills and expertise required in this field.
A Level 3 Diesel Technician is skilled in using computer electronic systems to diagnose issues and repair or refurbish parts. They maintain detailed maintenance logs and ensure that all services adhere to quality standards and safety protocols. The salary for this role typically ranges from $61,790 to $75,790, with a mid-point of $68,790.
The trade of a Diesel Technician offers competitive salaries, with a minimum salary of $61,790, a mid-range salary of $68,790, and a maximum salary of $75,790. This makes it a lucrative option for those skilled in diesel mechanics, reflecting the demand for expertise in this field.
Diesel Mechanics Are Paid Well If you're wondering how much diesel mechanics make, they are actually compensated quite well. The salary for a diesel technician ranges from a minimum of $61,790 to a mid-range of $68,790, with the potential to earn up to $75,790. This competitive pay can contribute significantly to financial stability and wealth over time.
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