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Apprentice Diesel Electrician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BNSF

Electrician Diesel Engines- Temple, TX

Temple, TX

$77K - $92K/yr

The Electrician Diesel Engine position is critical for ensuring the reliable operation and safety ... period for Apprentices. The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative ...

Waste Management

Apprentice Diesel Mechanic

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30.75/hr

... to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks ... Our technicians are trained to provide superior maintenance on diesel equipment. We care about our ...

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Apprentice Diesel Electrician information

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$36

How much do apprentice diesel electrician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice diesel electrician in the United States is $22.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Why do most apprentices quit?

Most apprentices in diesel electrician programs quit due to challenges such as demanding physical work, long hours, and difficulty balancing training with personal life. Additionally, some may leave because of inadequate support, unclear expectations, or frustration with the learning curve of technical skills and tools like diagnostic equipment. Persistence and proper mentorship are key to completing an apprenticeship in this field.

What is the difference between Apprentice Diesel Electrician vs Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician?

AspectApprentice Diesel ElectricianApprentice Heavy Equipment Technician
CertificationsBasic electrical and diesel engine training, often includes industry-specific certificationsHeavy machinery repair, hydraulic systems, and diesel engine certifications
Work EnvironmentWorkshops, construction sites, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, mining operations, heavy equipment maintenance facilities
Industry UsageTransportation, trucking, industrial sectorsConstruction, mining, agriculture sectors

Both roles involve working with diesel engines and electrical systems, but Apprentice Diesel Electrician focuses more on electrical wiring and diagnostics, while Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician emphasizes repairing heavy machinery. The choice depends on your interest in electrical systems versus mechanical and hydraulic repairs within industrial settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Diesel Electrician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Diesel Electrician, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, electrical testing equipment, and safety procedures is important, and completion of an apprenticeship program or technical coursework is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and accurate maintenance and repair of diesel-electric equipment in demanding work environments.

What are Apprentice Diesel Electricians?

Apprentice Diesel Electricians are entry-level workers who are learning to inspect, repair, and maintain the electrical systems of diesel locomotives and related equipment. They work under the supervision of experienced electricians, gaining hands-on experience while studying electrical theory and safety protocols. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting electrical issues, replacing faulty wiring, and performing routine maintenance. This apprenticeship is often a step toward becoming a fully qualified diesel electrician, offering both classroom training and practical, on-the-job experience.

Is 25 too old to be an electrician?

Age is not a barrier to becoming an apprentice diesel electrician. Many apprentices start in their 20s or later, and the profession values skills, training, and certifications over age. As long as you meet the requirements and are willing to learn, you can pursue this career at 25 or older.

Is 30 too old to start an apprenticeship?

Starting an apprentice diesel electrician program at age 30 is generally acceptable, as many apprenticeships value skills, motivation, and work ethic over age. Adults often bring valuable life experience and dedication, and programs typically do not have age restrictions, making it possible to begin training at any age. Success depends on commitment, completing required certifications, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What are some typical challenges an Apprentice Diesel Electrician might face in their first year, and how can these be overcome?

As an Apprentice Diesel Electrician, you may initially find it challenging to balance hands-on work with learning complex electrical systems on diesel equipment. Adjusting to safety protocols, understanding technical manuals, and troubleshooting under supervision can also be demanding. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively seek feedback from experienced electricians, commit to ongoing learning, and take advantage of training resources offered by your employer. Building strong communication skills and asking questions when unsure will help you progress confidently through your apprenticeship.

Can you make $100,000 a year as an electrician?

Apprentice diesel electricians typically do not earn $100,000 annually, as this level of income is usually achieved after gaining experience and obtaining journeyman or master certifications. Experienced electricians working in industrial or specialized fields with overtime and advanced skills can reach or exceed this salary level, but it generally requires several years of work and skill development.
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Apprentice Diesel Electrician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Diesel Electrician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,449 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Locomotive Electrician

Locomotive Electrician

Canadian National Railway Company

Stevens Point, WI

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

165th of 358 rated logistics

Job description

Locomotive Electrician

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

Locomotive Electricians perform inspections, major and minor repairs, overhauls and servicing on all types of locomotives.

Working Conditions

  • Work shift work which consists of irregular hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime.
  • Work in a shop environment and outside in all weather conditions.
  • Occasionally work in confined spaces and at elevated heights.
  • Frequent stooping, lifting, kneeling, bending, crouching, and climbing.
  • Minimal travel required.

Major Responsibilities

  • Inspect, service, and maintain locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, including troubleshooting or repairing, replacing, cleaning, and adjusting parts.
  • Troubleshoot and diagnose engine malfunctions and make required repairs.
  • Assemble and start engines.
  • Use test equipment, lubrication equipment, and other vehicle repair tools and equipment, and operate said tools in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Prepare inspection, maintenance, and work reports, and record details on prescribed forms in accordance with established procedures.
  •  Operate locomotive on shop tracks.
  • Test locomotives on shop track after repair.

Requirements

  • Valid driver's license.
  • Highschool diploma or equivalent GED.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements of the position.
  • Using measuring devices and understanding visual display.
  • Basic technical knowledge of electrical theory and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Frequent lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs. and occasionally up to 70 lbs. 
  • Displays good hand-eye coordination.

Assets

  • Valid CDL for the class and type of equipment operated
  • Ability to certify company equipment in accordance with regulatory standards
  • Experience troubleshooting hydraulic and electronic systems
  • Welding skills
  • Basic computer skills
  • Automotive or diesel electrician experience and/or electrician diploma/apprenticeship
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork skills and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Displays good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety and client satisfaction.

What We Offer

  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Paid Training:

Newly hired Electricians take part in several weeks of paid training, which includes a mix of classroom instructions, and field experience. This consists of 3 weeks on CN Campus (Homewood, IL), 2+ weeks at the local shop (the location you were hired for), and another 3 weeks at CN Campus.

The training guides the new Electrician through the critical safety skills required to work on the railroad. Successful completion of the training course is mandatory to maintain a role as an Electrician at CN.

 

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision). 
  • Criminal background check
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 3 weeks at CN Campus (Classroom training & Knowledge Checks)
  • 2+ weeks working at local shop (on-the-job training)
  • 3 weeks at CN Campus

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