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Diesel Instructor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$89 - $115/hr

... Diesel engine operating requirements/room design, Fuel and Cooling systems, Emissions regulations ... In-house training instructors/programs * Employee referral bonus program * Tool allowances and tool ...

Diesel Instructor information

See Kentucky salary details

$9.6K

$49.8K

$69K

How much do diesel instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for diesel instructor in Kentucky is $49,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $58,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a diesel instructor?

Diesel Instructors are professionals who teach students or trainees about diesel engines, their components, maintenance, and repair techniques. They typically work in technical schools, community colleges, or specialized training centers, delivering both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Diesel Instructors are usually experienced diesel mechanics or technicians who have transitioned into teaching roles. Their responsibilities include developing lesson plans, demonstrating repair procedures, and preparing students for certification exams. They play a crucial role in equipping the next generation of diesel technicians with the skills needed in the automotive and heavy equipment industries.

What are the responsibilities of a diesel instructor?

A diesel instructor is involved in the training of students who want to learn the diesel mechanic trade. In this career, your duties may include offering hands-on instruction in an engine lab or auto shop or teaching the principles of diesel engine repair and maintenance in a classroom setting. In addition to working to teach students and apprentices, your responsibilities may include designing a curriculum for your course. During this process, you need to make sure your curriculum meets professional requirements for training or certification.

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

To thrive as a Diesel Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of diesel engine systems, repair techniques, and industry safety standards, usually backed by relevant certifications and experience in diesel technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, shop equipment, and training platforms such as learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and mentorship abilities are vital soft skills for effectively teaching and motivating students. These skills ensure instructors can deliver high-quality education, foster student engagement, and prepare future diesel technicians for real-world challenges.

What are some common challenges diesel instructors face when teaching students new technologies in diesel engine systems?

Diesel Instructors often encounter the challenge of keeping up with rapidly evolving diesel engine technologies and emissions standards. Teaching students to work with both traditional mechanical systems and newer computer-controlled engines requires continuous learning and curriculum updates. Additionally, instructors must tailor their teaching methods to accommodate varying levels of student experience and learning styles, ensuring that both hands-on and theoretical concepts are effectively communicated. Collaborating with industry partners and staying connected to current trends can help instructors offer students the most relevant and up-to-date training.

What is the difference between Diesel Instructor vs Heavy Equipment Instructor?

AspectDiesel InstructorHeavy Equipment Instructor
CertificationsDiesel mechanic certifications, instructor licensesHeavy equipment operation licenses, instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, workshops, diesel repair shopsConstruction sites, training centers, outdoor environments
Industry UsageAutomotive, transportation, diesel engine repairConstruction, mining, heavy machinery operation

Diesel Instructors primarily focus on teaching diesel engine repair and maintenance, often working in automotive or repair shop settings. Heavy Equipment Instructors specialize in training students to operate large machinery like bulldozers and cranes, typically in construction or industrial environments. While both roles require technical certifications and involve hands-on training, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

How much do diesel instructors make?

Diesel instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in technical schools, training centers, or vocational programs, and may need specialized knowledge of diesel engines and maintenance tools.

How to become a diesel instructor?

To become a diesel instructor, you typically need relevant industry experience as a diesel technician or mechanic, along with a valid commercial driver's license if applicable. Many programs require certification in diesel technology or teaching credentials, and some employers prefer candidates with teaching experience or specialized certifications such as ASE certification in diesel engines. Completing a training program or obtaining a teaching credential can also be necessary depending on the employer or state requirements.

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

The most popular types of Diesel Instructor jobs in Kentucky are:

Infographic showing various Diesel Instructor job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,769 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Diesel Mechanic Instructor

Kentucky Community & Technical College System

Madisonville, KY โ€ข On-site

$49K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Diesel Mechanic Instructor

Apply now Job no: 496462
Work type: Full-time
Location: Madisonville, KY
Categories: Faculty

Title: Diesel Mechanic Instructor

Salary Range:ย $$49,500

Contract Term Length:ย 10 Months

Standard Hours:ย 37.5

Work Location:ย On-Site

FLSA Status: Exempt

College: Madisonville Community College

Campus Location:ย Lisman Training Complex

Department: Workforce Solutions

Total Rewards

Madisonville Community College offers a competitive benefits package and an attractive work environment that supports excellence, innovation, and creativity, including:

  • Exceptional health care, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family
  • Tuition reimbursement/waiver for you, your spouse, and dependents
  • 403(b) retirement plan: a 5% employee contribution receives a 10% employer match
  • Vacation/Sick Time
  • Work-Life Balance
  • 9.5 Paid Holidays
  • 2 Weeks Institutional Closing Pay (Last 2 weeks of December) for qualifying positions
  • Employee Assistance Program

Job Summary

Faculty responsibilities include advising, committee work and other institutional services, community service, and professional development. The successful candidate must possess a strong commitment to student learning and will be receptive to using active and engaged teaching methods and technology in the classroom. In addition, candidates should demonstrate an interest in the mission of the comprehensive community college concept.

Job Duties:

Prepares for and instructs, through traditional classroom, shop, range, and distance education modes, classes in the discipline of Diesel Technician; Assignments may be at off-campus centers and may also include evening classes.
Provides availability and accessibility to students for purpose of academic consulting and support, in a manner appropriate to meet student needs, through a combination of scheduled office hours, e-mail accessibility or other effective means of responsive and timely communication.
Communicates expectations and establishes clear grading criteria through appropriate instructional means, to include but not limited to developing course syllabi, handouts, and materials supporting the instructional process; evaluates student progress and provides clear, timely feedback.
Participates in district, division, department, or general faculty meetings; in-service training; curriculum development; academic consulting; workshops or seminars; service on district or college councils or committees, or other activities within the scope of the position.
Complies with state and federal law applicable to professional duties and responsibilities; Follows established procedures in areas such as printing, turning in grades, bookstore orders, office support, student financial aid requirements, safety and health issues and related administrative processes.
Support and advance the college strategic plan, and perform other duties as assigned.
Instruct courses in related disciplines based upon individual qualifications and expertise.
Supervise paraprofessional employees or direct the work of assigned work-study students.
Demonstrate that assigned staff have been informed how behavior and performance will be assessed, receive timely and accurate feedback regarding performance, and any observed performance and behavioral problems are corrected promptly.
Collaborates with business and industry to maintain an awareness of current technologies, trends, and issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate degree or diploma in Diesel Technician Repair from an accredited institution and 2 years' experience.
A combination of formal training in Diesel Technology as evidenced through a documented record of training programs completed, plus either: 2 years of relevant work experience in the field of Diesel Technician, OR 2 years of relevant and recent teaching experience in Diesel Technician industry.
ASE or Master ASE Certifications required.
Broad background in Diesel Technology, Medium/Heavy Duty Trucks.
Previous teaching experience preferred.

Application Process:
Application Deadline: Open until Filled
Applicants will be notified if selected for an interview. Search may be extended if additional candidates are needed.
Applicants must complete and submit:
Online application - https://careers.kctcs.edu/madisonville
Cover Letter
Resume/CV
Copy of all college transcripts. Official transcripts needed within 30 days of hire.
Kentucky State Law requires state and national pre-employment background checks as a condition of employment.
ย 

Preferred Qualifications:

CDL Class A License preferred.

Employee Rights -ย Employee Polygraph Protection Act

Equal Opportunity Employer -ย The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is an equal educational and employment opportunity institution.

Advertised: 18 May 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:

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