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Diesel Entry Level Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... time in an entry-level Technician role * A valid driver's license * Able to perform safety ... Diesel tech school diploma * Previous or current ASE certifications * Basic welding skills (Oxy ...

Mechanic

Ames, IA · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

Diagnose, repair, and maintain diesel engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, brakes, and ... hire date. Entry-level driver Training is available upon hire through the Iowa DOT. The ...

Showing results 21-22

Diesel Entry Level information

What is a diesel entry level job?

Diesel entry level jobs refer to positions for individuals who are beginning their careers in the field of diesel technology or diesel mechanics. These roles typically involve assisting experienced technicians with maintenance and repair of diesel engines, learning to diagnose mechanical problems, and performing basic tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Entry-level diesel workers often work under supervision while gaining hands-on experience and knowledge of diesel engines and related systems. These positions are a great way to start a career in the diesel industry and often offer opportunities for further training and advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a diesel entry level technician?

To succeed as a Diesel Entry Level Technician, you need basic mechanical aptitude, understanding of diesel engine systems, and often a high school diploma or automotive technology coursework. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and sometimes basic certifications like ASE Entry-Level Certification is beneficial. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for performing accurate repairs, ensuring safety, and building a foundation for career growth in diesel mechanics.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level diesel technicians, and how can they successfully overcome them?

Entry-level diesel technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex engine issues, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and managing a fast-paced workload. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to continuously seek hands-on experience, ask questions from more experienced colleagues, and take advantage of any manufacturer-provided training programs. Building strong communication skills and staying organized can also help technicians efficiently collaborate with team members and supervisors, ensuring smoother workflow and professional growth.

What is the difference between Diesel Entry Level vs Diesel Technician?

AspectDiesel Entry LevelDiesel Technician
CertificationsBasic ASE certifications or noneAdvanced ASE certifications often required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level shops, dealerships, or fleet servicesMore complex repair shops, dealerships, or industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with basic maintenance, inspections, and repairsDiagnosing and repairing complex diesel engine issues
Experience Level0-2 years2+ years experience typically required

While Diesel Entry Level roles focus on basic maintenance and assisting senior technicians, Diesel Technicians handle more complex diagnostics and repairs. The entry-level position is ideal for those starting in the industry, whereas Diesel Technicians are more experienced professionals responsible for advanced repairs and troubleshooting.

How to get into diesel entry level with no experience?

To start a diesel entry-level position with no experience, focus on obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent and consider completing a technical training program or apprenticeship related to diesel mechanics. Gaining basic knowledge of engines, tools, and safety procedures can improve your chances, and some employers may offer on-the-job training for entry-level candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Diesel jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Diesel jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Diesel Entry Level jobs in Iowa?

For Diesel Entry Level jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Diesel Entry Level jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Diesel Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Diesel Entry Level job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Trailer Mechanic - Afternoon Shift

XPO

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$34.51/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


XPO rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

What you’ll need to succeed as a Trailer Mechanic at XPO

Minimum qualifications:

  • 1 year of verifiable experience in heavy-duty maintenance and/or time in an entry-level Technician role
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Able to perform safety inspections of equipment and prepare safety documentation
  • Basic computer skills
  • Available to work a variety of shifts, including days, evenings, nights and weekends
  • Brake inspection qualified as defined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, Section 369.25
  • Vehicle Inspection qualified in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, Section 369.19
  • Basic hand tools required for heavy-duty trailer maintenance

Preferred qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent work-related or military experience
  • Prior mechanical experience such as automotive or skilled trades
  • Diesel tech school diploma
  • Previous or current ASE certifications 
  • Basic welding skills (Oxy/Acetylene, MIG and ARC)

 

About the Trailer Mechanic job

Pay, benefits and more:

  • Experienced Trailer Mechanics can earn up to $34.51/hour Including afternoon shift premium
  • 2nd Shift, 2:00pm-10:30pm Monday - Friday
  • Company-provided uniforms
  • Tool allowance of $400 per quarter 
  • Full health insurance benefits on day one
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Earn up to 13 days of PTO over your first year, with accruals starting on day one
  • 9 paid company holidays
  • 401(k) option with company match
  • Education assistance
  • This is a Motor Carrier Act Exempt position

What you’ll do on a typical day:

  • Perform routine maintenance functions and adjustments on trailing equipment, in compliance with the manufacturers, DOT, and company schedules
  • Access any area of the equipment to perform necessary maintenance, including inspecting and performing work in, on or under parts of trailers
  • Repair or rebuild all or part of equipment systems
  • Abide by DOT, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Interstate Authority, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other rules and regulations
  • Maintain proficiency in equipment and technologies that enhance our productivity
  • Move trailers throughout the property, and operate a hostler in all types of weather
  • Enter job times and parts on repair orders to track activity
  • Operate specialized tooling and vehicles
  • Ensure the work area is always clean, safe, and organized
  • Interact with operations and shop management

Trailer Mechanics are required to:

  • Lift objects of various shapes, sizes, and weights frequently up to 50 lbs. and occasionally more than 75 lbs.
  • Safely walk and stand for extended periods on various surfaces that may be uneven or slippery, including working outdoors in inclement weather
  • Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel
  • Walk and stand for extended periods on a loading dock that is not climate-controlled and may be slippery

About XPO

XPO is a top ten global provider of transportation services, with a highly integrated network of people, technology and physical assets. At XPO, we look for employees who like a challenge and can communicate effectively in all situations. We want to leverage your skills and years of experience to drive positive results while ensuring a bright future for yourself and XPO. If you’re looking for a growth opportunity, join us at XPO. 

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran or other protected status.

All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug test. 

The above statements are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties and skills for this job classification. 

Review XPO's candidate privacy statement here.


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About XPO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in Greenwich, Connecticut, XPO Logistics, Inc., operating under the brand name XPO, is a one of the leading companies in the transportation and logistics sector. Operating its services in 30 countries, the company employs the use of ground-breaking technology in providing a broad suite of logistics services including supply chain management, freight brokerage, last mile logistics, and intermodal and drayage transportation. XPO's impressive history dates back to 2011 and within its relatively short existence, it has made a series of acquisitions to consolidate its top-notch range of services. Their mission is to provide outstanding results to customers by envisioning and implementing significant advancements in freight transportation and logistics.

Industry

Import-export

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greenwich, CT, US