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Diesel Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Diesel Mechanic

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$32 - $43/hr

Manage a team of trainees and collaborate with other diesel mechanics. * Demonstrate strong time management, organization, problem-solving, and customer service skills. * Manage repairs of electrical ...

Pape Machinery Inc C&F

Technician Trainee

Fremont, CA

$29.79 - $48.74/hr

PAPE' MACHINERY, INC. - CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY DIVISION - FREMONT, CA TECHNICIAN TRAINEE : Do you ... Auto/Diesel Technology is preferred. * Must have a starter set of general tools. * Ability to ...

PetersonCat

Truck Technician Trainee

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$30.67 - $48.56/hr

Peterson Trucks has a need for a Truck Technician Trainee based at our San Leandro, CA location ... in Diesel Technology or other closely related field; and a minimum of one years of related ...

Peterson

Truck Technician Trainee

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$30.67 - $48.56/hr

Peterson Trucks has a need for a Truck Technician Trainee based at our San Leandro, CA location ... in Diesel Technology or other closely related field; and a minimum of one years of related ...

W.W.Williams Company

Technical Trainer

Rialto, CA

$70K - $100K/yr

Observes trainees in the laboratory and answer trainees' questions. * Administer written and ... Its products and service offerings include diesel engines, transmissions, bumper-to-bumper truck ...

W.W.Williams Company

Technical Trainer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Observes trainees in the laboratory and answer trainees' questions. * Administer written and ... Its products and service offerings include diesel engines, transmissions, bumper-to-bumper truck ...

Universal Waste Systems

Mechanic

Perris, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... Trainees. * Participate in external, Department and Company-wide trainings to increase skill sets and improve service. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of: * Diesel and/or compressed natural ...

Universal Waste Systems

Mechanic

Perris, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... Trainees. * Participate in external, Department and Company-wide trainings to increase skill sets and improve service. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of: * Diesel and/or compressed natural ...

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Diesel Trainee information

What is the difference between Diesel Trainee vs Diesel Mechanic?

AspectDiesel TraineeDiesel Mechanic
CertificationsBasic technical training, entry-level certificationsAdvanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, workshops, on-the-job learningRepair shops, service centers, fieldwork
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning diagnostics, assisting in repairsPerforming repairs, diagnostics, maintenance
Experience LevelEntry-level, in training phaseExperienced, skilled technician

The Diesel Trainee role is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining skills under supervision, while a Diesel Mechanic is a fully qualified professional responsible for diagnosing and repairing diesel engines. Trainees typically undergo training programs, whereas mechanics have hands-on experience and certifications. Both roles are essential in the diesel industry, but they differ in responsibility and expertise level.

What are Diesel Trainees?

Diesel Trainees are entry-level workers who are learning the skills needed to become diesel mechanics or technicians. They typically work under the supervision of experienced professionals, assisting with the maintenance, repair, and inspection of diesel engines and heavy-duty vehicles. Their responsibilities may include basic diagnostics, cleaning parts, changing oil, and learning to use specialized tools. Diesel Trainees often participate in formal training programs or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience and technical knowledge. This role serves as a starting point for a career in diesel technology.

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

To thrive as a Diesel Trainee, you need a basic understanding of diesel engine mechanics, troubleshooting, and maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or technical coursework in automotive technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, repair manuals, and safety equipment is typically required, while certifications like ASE can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and good communication skills help trainees adapt and collaborate effectively with experienced technicians. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing technical expertise and ensuring safe, efficient service in diesel engine repair environments.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a Diesel Trainee in their first year on the job?

As a Diesel Trainee, your first year typically involves hands-on learning under the supervision of experienced diesel mechanics. You’ll assist with routine maintenance, engine diagnostics, and basic repairs on diesel-powered vehicles and equipment. You'll also be introduced to safety protocols, use of specialized tools, and proper documentation procedures. This entry-level role is designed to build foundational skills, and many employers offer formal training programs or mentorship to help you progress toward becoming a certified diesel technician.
What are the most commonly searched types of Diesel jobs in California? The most popular types of Diesel jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Diesel Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Diesel Trainee job openings:
Diesel Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diesel Trainee job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Diesel Technician, Instructor

Saronic Technologies

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Summary
Saronic is seeking a Diesel Technician Instructor to design, develop, and deliver advanced technical training programs focused on diesel propulsion systems supporting our autonomous surface vessels (ASVs). This role blends curriculum development, hands-on maintenance training, and field-based technical support to ensure mission readiness across internal teams, contracted customers, and DoD partners.
You will be responsible for both creating and executing hands-on training initiatives that encompass diesel engine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and system troubleshooting. This role also contributes to team readiness, supports development of professional certification pathways, drives technical standards, and ensures personnel are prepared to maintain and sustain Saronic-operated vessels in operational environments.
Responsibilities:
Training Delivery & Instruction
  • Lead instructor-led training for internal personnel and external customers on diesel engine systems, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting workflows
  • Facilitate hands-on labs, practical maintenance exercises, and field-based training events
  • Serve as the primary interface for trainee learning, ensuring comprehension, engagement, and technical proficiency
  • Evaluate trainee performance, administer assessments, and provide actionable feedback and remediation
  • Lead certification events and qualification checkouts for diesel maintenance personnel

Curriculum & Content Development
  • Translate real-world maintenance workflows and technical procedures into structured, scalable training programs
  • Develop and maintain training materials, including lesson plans, SOPs, technical guides, and practical exercises
  • Continuously refine curriculum based on field experience, trainee performance, and system updates
  • Partner with Engineering, Product, and Mission Operations teams to ensure training reflects current configurations and approved maintenance practices

Customer Training & Enablement
  • Own customer onboarding and training delivery for diesel maintenance programs
  • Translate complex mechanical and electrical concepts into clear, operator-focused instruction
  • Act as a trusted technical advisor to customers during training and early operational deployment
  • Gather feedback from trainees and customers to inform improvements to training and maintenance processes

Field Operations & Training Support
  • Support on-site and on-water training events, demonstrations, and mission scenarios
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot diesel engine issues in operational environments while incorporating lessons into training
  • Ensure training environments reflect real-world maintenance conditions and operational constraints
  • Assist with validation of maintenance procedures and system performance in field settings

Systems Maintenance & Technical Expertise
  • Perform and instruct routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks
  • Diagnose and repair diesel engine malfunctions, mechanical issues, and electrical faults
  • Inspect, test, overhaul, and rebuild diesel engine systems including fuel systems, turbochargers, and exhaust systems
  • Utilize diagnostic tools, technical manuals, and schematics to support troubleshooting and instruction
  • Maintain accurate records of maintenance procedures, service history, and system performance

Team Collaboration
  • Collaborate with Mission Training, Engineering, Mission Operations, and Product teams to align training with system updates
  • Support knowledge transfer from development teams into training programs
  • Foster a collaborative, learning-focused environment across instructors and trainees
  • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to other instructors and maintenance personnel
Role Requirements:
  • Demonstrated success in technical instruction, field maintenance, or hands-on mechanical leadership roles
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to support multiple training events
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated problem-solving ability in dynamic operational environments
  • Ability to travel up to 50% in support of training and field operations
Qualifications:
  • 4-8+ years of experience as a diesel technician, preferably in marine or heavy equipment environments
  • Marine Diesel and/or Volvo VODIA experience strongly preferred
  • Proven experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines and related systems
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to read and interpret technical manuals, diagrams, and schematics
  • Experience with diagnostic tools such as scan tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopes
  • Experience in maritime, defense, or regulated environments preferred
  • Prior experience delivering training or mentoring others (formal or informal) preferred
  • Vocational training or certification in diesel mechanics or related field preferred
Physical Demands:
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods of time, up to 12 hours/day
  • Frequently and repetitively, lift, push and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outside for extended periods of time in marine environments
  • Frequently and repetitively bend, lift, and reach to install components of varying size and weight
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including over varied and uneven terrain
  • Stoop, lay, bend, reach, squat, kneel, crouch, twist and crawl for extended periods
  • Climb and maintain balance on ladders, platforms, or other elevated structures
  • Exposure to hazardous materials with required adherence to safety and disposal procedures
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and safety footwear

Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
  • Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
  • Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
  • Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
  • Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
  • Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
  • Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
  • Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match
  • Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success
  • Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
  • Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Saronic CCPA Notice for Candidates and California Employees
If this role is based in the United States, it requires access to export-controlled information or items that require "U.S. Person" status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a "U.S. Person": (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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