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Diesel Electrician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Electrician

Bay City, MI

$29.80/hr

The person in this position performs basic troubleshooting and electrical repairs on all diesel ... Diesel electrician training preferred * Four-year journeyman railroad electrician preferred * Valid ...

Union Pacific

Electrician Diesel Engines

Ralston, NE · On-site

$42.71/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

Union Pacific

Electrician Diesel Engines

Roseville, CA

$44.31/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

Union Pacific

Electrician Diesel Engines

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$44.31/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

Union Pacific

Electrician Diesel Engines

Pine Bluff, AR

$44.31/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

Union Pacific

Electrician Diesel Engines

Colton, CA · On-site

$42.71/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

G&W

Electrician

Bay City, MI · On-site

$29.80/hr

The person in this position performs basic troubleshooting and electrical repairs on all diesel ... Diesel electrician training preferred * Four-year journeyman railroad electrician preferred * Valid ...

Union Pacific Railroad

NE · On-site

$42.71/hr

As a Diesel Electrician, you will be an integral part of a dedicated group, responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the intricate electrical systems found in locomotives of various ages ...

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Diesel Electrician information

See salary details

$52K

$67.5K

$77K

How much do diesel electrician jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for diesel electrician in the United States is $67,503.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Diesel Electrician vs Heavy Equipment Mechanic?

AspectDiesel ElectricianHeavy Equipment Mechanic
CertificationsASE Diesel Certification, Electrical CertificationsASE Heavy Equipment Certification, Diesel Certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, power plants, large vehiclesConstruction sites, mining, agricultural equipment
Industry UsageTransportation, energy, manufacturingConstruction, mining, forestry

Both Diesel Electricians and Heavy Equipment Mechanics work with diesel-powered machinery, often requiring similar certifications. Diesel Electricians focus on electrical systems within diesel engines, while Heavy Equipment Mechanics handle overall maintenance and repairs of heavy machinery. The roles overlap in work environments and industry applications, but Diesel Electricians specialize more in electrical troubleshooting and wiring within diesel systems.

What are some common challenges faced by diesel electricians and how can they be addressed?

Diesel electricians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex electrical systems, working in confined or noisy environments, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology in diesel engines and control systems. Staying up-to-date with manufacturer training, regularly reviewing wiring diagrams, and collaborating closely with mechanical team members can help overcome these challenges. Effective communication and a proactive approach to safety are also essential for maintaining high performance and minimizing downtime.

What does a diesel electrician do?

As a diesel electrician, your job is to install, maintain, and repair diesel electrical systems, which in this case generally refers to electrical systems powered by one or more diesel generators. In this role, you may ensure user safety by checking for wear and tear on the system, patrol each site, report noted issues, and otherwise maintain the entire system. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a diesel electrician often involves working with both mechanical and electrical systems, making this job similar to a cross between regular electricians and engine mechanics. Some diesel electricians work in moving environments, such as on boats or trains.

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

To thrive as a Diesel Electrician, you need a solid background in electrical systems, diesel engine mechanics, and troubleshooting, often supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, wiring schematics, and industry certifications such as ASE or relevant electrician licenses is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in diagnosing complex issues and collaborating with team members. These skills ensure reliable equipment performance, minimize downtime, and maintain safety standards in demanding industrial environments.

What is a diesel electrician?

Diesel electricians are skilled technicians who install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in diesel-powered equipment, such as trains, trucks, and heavy machinery. Their work often involves troubleshooting electrical faults, replacing wiring, and ensuring all electrical components meet safety and performance standards. Diesel electricians may work in industries like transportation, construction, or manufacturing, and they require specialized knowledge of both diesel engines and electrical systems. They play a crucial role in keeping critical equipment running efficiently and safely.
More about Diesel Electrician jobs
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Who are the top companies hiring for Diesel Electrician jobs? The top employers for Diesel Electrician jobs are:
What states have the most Diesel Electrician jobs? States with the most job openings for Diesel Electrician jobs include:
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What are popular job titles related to Diesel Electrician jobs? For Diesel Electrician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Diesel Electrician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diesel Electrician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $67,503 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Electrician

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Bay City, MI

$29.80/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

SUMMARY:

The person in this position performs basic troubleshooting and electrical repairs on all diesel-electric locomotive equipment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration 
  • Wire, maintain, repair, rebuild, inspect, and install electrical equipment, including but not limited to rheostats, control systems, transformers, motors, generators, electric lighting fixtures, cab heaters, batteries and their charging systems, speed recorders, air compressor controls, temperature switches, starters, axle generators, coils, contactors, relays, and governors
  • Be responsible for preventative maintenance on all electrical components 
  • Troubleshoot and test single- and three-phase electrical systems on diesel-electric locomotives, including grounded components and wiring, high and low voltage, wheel slip, transition, and electrical load or no-load conditions 
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • Two years of relevant work experience 
  • Ability to read and comprehend written and oral instructions, including electrical schematics

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR CREDENTIALS: 

  • Associate degree in related subject matter
  • Diesel electrician training preferred
  • Four-year journeyman railroad electrician preferred
  • Valid driver’s license

Providence and Worcester Railroad Company is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

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