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Diesel Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Diesel Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11.7K

$60.8K

$84.3K

How much do diesel instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for diesel instructor in Portland, OR is $60,770.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $71,100.00 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.
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Diesel Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diesel Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,770 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Parts Sales Counterperson I

Pape Trucks Inc

Portland, OR

$21 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Engage with customers face-to-face or over the phone to identify their parts needs and provide recommendations.

  • Use product literature, specialized software systems, and knowledge of parts and diesel trucks to offer accurate solutions.

  • Build trust and maintain customer relationships through effective communication and customer service.

Job description

PAPE’ KENWORTH – PORTLAND, OR

 

PARTS SALES COUNTERPERSON I:

Do you love working in a positive, high-energy environment? Do you enjoy providing a great experience for customers? If you answered yes to these questions, we would love to hear from you!

Pape’ Kenworth, a premier capital equipment dealer in the West, is looking for a motivated and customer-oriented Parts Sales Counterperson I to join our team.

At Pape’, we invest in your growth. From robust training programs to continuous support, we equip our team members with the tools to succeed. In return for your hard work, we offer competitive compensation, exceptional benefits, and a strong work-life balance designed to support you and your family.

Make a difference. Grow your career. Join the Pape’ Team!

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

In the Parts Sales Counterperson I role, you will be the go-to parts expert for customers looking to maintain and repair their class 7 & 8 diesel trucks. Whether it's face-to-face at the counter or over the phone, you will play a vital role in ensuring our customers get the right parts when they need them most.

Your day-to-day will involve actively engaging with customers to identify their needs and providing recommendations. You will use a combination of product literature, specialized software systems, and your own growing knowledge of parts and diesel trucks to offer timely and accurate solutions. Your ability to translate technical details into actionable parts support will set you apart and create lasting relationships with the clients we serve.

This role isn’t just about moving parts—it’s about building trust. We’re looking for someone who values customer service and is eager to become a reliable partner to our clients. Your positive attitude, attention to detail, and commitment to finding the best solutions will be key to your success. In return, we offer an environment where your contributions are recognized, your growth is supported, and your dedication is rewarded.

WHAT YOU NEED:

  • Verifiable parts counter experience or applicable mechanical/service experience.
  • Basic knowledge of parts inventory.
  • Self-motivation and assertive drive.
  • Ability to perform at a high level in a fast-paced and team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with customers by telephone and in person to sell company parts and other services.
  • Above-average organizational skills.
Compensation: $21-32/hr (Depending on Experience)

 

Why work for Pape’:
  • Competitive pay based on your skills, training, and experience level.
  • Outstanding benefits including – 401(k) & Roth 401(k) Retirement Plans with Company Match; Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts (Flex Plans); Life Insurance; Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance; Employee Assistance Program; Online and Instructor-Led Training; Tuition Reimbursement for Training Programs.
  • Progressive Vacation Plans, Sick Leave & Paid Holidays – Members receive 80 hours of vacation (First year is prorated for new hires based on start date), 40 hours of Sick Leave, and 7 paid holidays each year. Pape’ vacation plans also have tiers based on your seniority, so as your seniority grows, your vacation time off does as well.
  • Advancement – Pape’ is a dynamic, growth-oriented organization with a focus on promoting from within.  
  • Stability and reputation — Pape’ is a family-owned, fourth-generation company with over 160 locations, over 4,000 members and 85 plus years of experience. Pape’ is known for their stability, honesty and integrity.
  • Equipment – Pape’ has the largest equipment inventory in the West and an unparalleled parts inventory!
  • Employee impact – Enjoy an open-door policy where your voice will be heard and your opinions will matter.
  • Training – You will be provided with training and mentoring to prepare you for your role and continued learning to grow your skills.
The Pape’ Group maintains a drug-free workplace and as such, requires candidates to successfully pass a pre-employment drug test.