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Diesel Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Diesel Apprentice information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$17

$21

$23

How much do diesel apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for diesel apprentice in Riverside, CA is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid apprenticeship?

The highest paid apprenticeships are often in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or construction, where apprentices can earn competitive wages that increase with experience. Some specialized technical apprenticeships, including those in manufacturing or engineering, also offer higher pay, especially when combined with certifications or advanced skills. Overall, wages vary by industry, location, and level of expertise.

What is a Diesel Apprentice?

A Diesel Apprentice is an entry-level technician who is learning how to repair, maintain, and service diesel engines and related equipment under the supervision of experienced mechanics. Typically, diesel apprentices participate in a structured training program that combines hands-on work with classroom learning. Their duties may include assisting with diagnostics, performing routine maintenance, and gradually taking on more complex repair tasks as they gain skills. This role is a common first step for those interested in becoming certified diesel mechanics.

Can you learn to be a diesel mechanic through an apprenticeship?

Yes, a diesel apprentice can learn to be a diesel mechanic through a structured apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices typically gain hands-on experience working with tools and equipment, and may need to obtain certifications or licenses to work independently. This pathway provides practical skills and industry knowledge essential for a career as a diesel mechanic.

What types of hands-on training and mentorship can a Diesel Apprentice expect during their apprenticeship?

As a Diesel Apprentice, you can expect to receive extensive hands-on training, often working under the direct supervision of experienced diesel mechanics or technicians. You'll be introduced to diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines, learning everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Mentorship is a key component; senior technicians typically guide you through procedures, safety protocols, and troubleshooting techniques. This collaborative environment helps build your confidence, technical skills, and prepares you for more independent work as your apprenticeship progresses.

Is 35 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for becoming a diesel apprentice, and individuals of various ages, including 35, can successfully pursue apprenticeships in this field. Employers value skills, motivation, and a willingness to learn, regardless of age, and many apprenticeship programs welcome mature applicants. Age should not be a barrier to starting a diesel apprenticeship if you meet the program requirements and are committed to gaining hands-on experience and certifications.

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

To thrive as a Diesel Apprentice, you need foundational mechanical aptitude, basic knowledge of diesel engines, and often a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and safety protocols is typically required, and enrollment in or completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate repairs, safe operations, and effective progression toward becoming a certified diesel technician.

How much does a diesel apprentice make at Love's truck Stop?

A diesel apprentice at Love's Truck Stop typically earns between $12 and $15 per hour, depending on experience and location. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may work towards certifications in diesel technology.

What is the difference between Diesel Apprentice vs Diesel Technician?

AspectDiesel ApprenticeDiesel Technician
CertificationsNone required initially; on-the-job trainingRelevant certifications like ASE Diesel Certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, supervisedSkilled, independent work in repair shops or garages
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with basic repairs, learning diagnostic proceduresPerforming repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance independently

The main difference between a Diesel Apprentice and a Diesel Technician is experience and skill level. An apprentice is in training, focusing on learning basic skills under supervision, while a technician is a trained professional capable of performing complex repairs independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Diesel jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Diesel jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Diesel Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA? For Diesel Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Diesel Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Diesel Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Diesel Apprentice jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Diesel Apprentice job openings:
Diesel Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diesel Apprentice job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,730 per year, or $21 per hour.

Diesel Technician (Military Veterans)

Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP)

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Tom's Isuzu Truck Center of Santa Ana, California is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Isuzu Service Technician.

This opportunity is part of the Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP), a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill-approved Registered Apprenticeship program designed to help qualified Veterans transition into the commercial truck industry. Through IVAP, participants may gain hands-on dealership experience while working toward successful completion of apprenticeship and certification requirements.

IVAP connects qualified applicants with participating Isuzu dealerships seeking skilled technical talent. Qualified applicants receive recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and guidance through the Registered Apprenticeship and GI Bill benefits process, where eligible.

What You Will Do

As an Isuzu Service Technician Apprentice, you may support dealership service operations by assisting with the inspection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of Isuzu commercial vehicles. This may include working alongside dealership service teams, participating in on-the-job learning, and completing program-related apprenticeship requirements.

Ideal candidates may have experience in one or more of the following areas:

Wheeled vehicle maintenance
Diesel mechanics
Heavy equipment maintenance
Automotive repair
Aircraft maintenance
Generator maintenance
Fleet maintenance
Military maintenance supervision

Requirements

Transitioning Service Member or U.S. Military Veteran status
3-5 years of military or civilian technician work experience
Honorable military discharge or Commander's Statement of Service
Hands-on experience with diesel, automotive, heavy equipment, aircraft, generator, fleet maintenance, or related mechanical systems
Ability to provide work references
Clean driving record, as attested by the applicant
Ability to complete the IVAP technical assessment
Ability to pass applicable dealership background, driving record, or drug screening requirements

Preferred qualifications include:

Diesel engine maintenance or repair experience
Experience with commercial trucks, fleet vehicles, or heavy equipment
Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and shop equipment
Experience working with electrical, braking, suspension, HVAC, or driveline systems
ASE certifications, technical school training, or military maintenance training
Strong troubleshooting, communication, and teamwork skills

Benefits

Isuzu IVAP Apprenticeship Highlights

Potential full-time employment with a participating Isuzu dealership
Program designed specifically to support Transitioning Service Members and U.S. Military Veterans
Participation in a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill-approved Registered Apprenticeship program, where eligible
Eligible Veterans may apply for and receive GI Bill benefits during the apprenticeship, where eligible
Access to tools, equipment, vehicles, and training needed to complete apprenticeship and certification requirements, as provided through the participating dealership and IVAP program structure
Opportunity to apply military mechanical experience toward a civilian Isuzu Service Technician career
Recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and apprenticeship process guidance

Hiring decisions, wages, employee benefits, employment offers, and employment conditions are determined by the participating Isuzu dealership. Applicants are applying for employment with a participating Isuzu dealership and not with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. or Educational Resource Systems, Inc.

GI Bill is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Use of the term does not imply endorsement, affiliation, or approval by VA.

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