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Entry Level Diesel Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Diesel Mechanic information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$38

How much do entry level diesel mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level diesel mechanic in California is $27.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level diesel mechanic?

Entry level diesel mechanics are technicians who perform basic maintenance and repair tasks on diesel-powered vehicles and equipment. They typically inspect, diagnose, and fix issues related to engines, brakes, electrical systems, and fuel systems under the supervision of experienced mechanics. This position is often the starting point for those new to the diesel mechanic field, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and develop their technical skills. Entry level diesel mechanics usually work in repair shops, trucking companies, or dealerships.

What does an entry level diesel mechanic do?

As an entry level diesel mechanic, you'll typically start with essential maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and basic inspections of diesel engines and related components. You'll often work under the supervision of senior technicians, who will provide guidance, answer questions, and help you learn best practices. Most shops encourage collaboration, so you'll have opportunities to assist with more complex repairs as you gain experience. This teamwork not only builds your technical skills but also helps you understand shop workflow and safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level diesel mechanic?

To thrive as an Entry Level Diesel Mechanic, you need a basic understanding of diesel engine systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with vocational training being an advantage. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and basic maintenance software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you stand out in this hands-on role. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate diagnostics, safe repair work, and effective teamwork in demanding automotive environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Diesel Mechanic vs Apprentice Diesel Mechanic?

AspectEntry Level Diesel MechanicApprentice Diesel Mechanic
CertificationsMay have basic certifications or noneTypically in training, working towards certifications
Work ExperienceLimited or no professional experienceOn-the-job training under supervision
Work EnvironmentGarage or workshop, performing repairs and maintenanceLearning and assisting in repairs, shadowing experienced mechanics
Employer UsageHired as entry-level technicianIn apprenticeship programs, often sponsored by employers or unions

While both roles involve working with diesel engines, an Entry Level Diesel Mechanic is usually ready to perform basic repairs independently, whereas an Apprentice Diesel Mechanic is still in training, gaining skills under supervision. The apprentice role often serves as a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified mechanic.

Can I get an entry level diesel mechanic job with no experience?

Entry level diesel mechanic positions often do not require prior experience, but employers typically look for a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and a willingness to learn. Completing technical training or certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), can improve job prospects. On-the-job training is common for entry-level roles in this field.

How to become an entry level diesel mechanic with no experience?

To become an entry-level diesel mechanic with no experience, you should complete a high school diploma or equivalent, then pursue technical training through a diesel technology program or community college. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining certifications like the ASE Diesel Equipment Certification can improve job prospects.

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

The most popular types of Diesel Mechanic jobs in California are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Diesel Mechanic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Diesel Mechanic job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Diesel Mechanic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,028 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Entry Level Diesel Mechanic

Cox Communications, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

$250/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Cox Communications rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 99 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

Company

Cox Automotive - USA

Job Family Group

Vehicle Operations

Job Profile

FleeTec Trainee - DOT

Management Level

Individual Contributor

Flexible Work Option 

Can work remotely but need to live in the specified city, state, or region

Travel %

Yes 100% of the time

Work Shift

Variable

Compensation

Hourly base pay rate is $16.44 - $24.62/hour. The hourly base rate may vary within the anticipated range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include commission (annual, monthly, etc.) and/or an incentive program.

Job Description

****EOE, including disability/vets****

Cox Fleet keeps your fleet moving.

Headquartered in Indianapolis, Cox Fleet has grown to become one of the largest fleet maintenance companies in the country.

Cox Fleet is the leading provider of on-site mobile maintenance and repair services nationwide, offering mobile on-site fleet service for light medium, and heavy-duty trucks and trailers. Cox Fleet also services customers utilizing its 20+ nationwide service centers; each offering accident repair, painting, refurbishment, and heavy mechanical repair. We are supported by a 24/7 in-house call center and provide scheduled maintenance services and unscheduled services to fleets anywhere, anytime.

  • Have you ever thought about a career as a Diesel Technician?
  • Are you tired of working hard at a dead-end J-O-B and no appreciation for your contributions?
  • Do you want to feel proud of what you do and get on the path to a better and brighter future for you and your family?
  • Did you take apart and put back together that pickup truck in your driveway? Does your compact have an exhaust pipe that is way too loud and a spoiler with enough down force to keep you driving under the speed limit? (Looks nice though).
  • Are you working as a lube tech or other position in the maintenance shop, but your company does not provide education or tools?

FleeTec Academy is apaid educational program that leads to becoming one of our full time Diesel & Trailer Technicians.It was established by us to help people get into Diesel & Trailer Maintenance field who otherwise might not be able to afford to spend over a year of their life at an expensive formal Technical School with all the associated tuition debt and buy all the necessary tools for the job without maxing out their credit card.

That's right, we pay you to go through our program, we give you free education on fundamentals of Diesel Engines and how to fix trucks, along with a set of hand tools with toolbox, to get you on your way to be the best Diesel & Trailer Technician out there!

Sounds too good to be true. What is the catch, right? Here is what we ask from you in return: You must be willing to study hard (and we mean HARD!) for five (5) weeks of full-time schooling at our Academy Campus. Travel expenses are paid by us, along with hotel accommodation and stipend for meals, plus a weekly paycheck. Upon completion of the initial classroom phase, you will be paired up with a Lead Technician in your market for further hands-on training and offered an actual full-time job with us! You will be sent back for another 5 week of further classroom study to keep developing your skill set, and upon successful completion of the full multi-year program, you will be able to call yourself a Diesel Technician! Oh, and keep the tools.

To summarize:

  • 5 weeks paid classroom training in Indianapolis, IN, all travel expenses paid. 8 to 10 weeks of mentorship in the field back home; followed by another 5 weeks paid classroom training in Indianapolis.
  • Free Technical Education
  • Further hands-on training by one of our technicians and a full-time job with us as a Mobile Diesel Mechanic in your market.
  • Our Mobile Technicians are assigned a state-of-the-art vehicle, with all the bells and whistles, which they use to perform vehicle repairs at our customers' locations. You are not going to be doing emergency truck repairs on a side of the road as part of your everyday duties, but rather go to our customers' locations to do preventative maintenance and general repairs onsite, so they can keep their vehicles running efficiently without having to take them to the shop.
  • Real pay rates that you can afford to pay rent with and a predefined pathway for raises.

Pay Details:

    • $13.72/h (or state minimum wages, whichever is greater) + $250 / wk. stipend (taxed)
    • $19/h while you are in mentorship between classes.
    • Then 2ndclass for 5 weeks at Indy at $19/h + $250 / wk. (taxed)
    • Then $21 per hour upon graduation.

Sounds like something you might be interested in. Apply now! Our class size are kept extremely small to ensure we can dedicate the time to teach our future technicians properly. We only have one spot in each geographical market we hire, so it will be competitive. Could that next hire, be you?

Here is what you bring to the table:

  • Desire to start a career as a Diesel & Trailer Technician and become one of our Mobile Mechanics.
  • Willingness and ability to study hard.
  • Dedicate ten (10) weeks away from home to be with us.
  • Maturity level to focus on the task at hand. This is not a summer camp, but a start of your career path.
  • Technical aptitude and a passion for fixing vehicles.
  • Ability to operate iPad.
  • A High-School Diploma or an equivalent combination of education is preferred, but not required.
  • This position follows regulations issued by the Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Candidate must be able to successfully complete and pass a DOT-regulated pre-employment background screening and DOT physical prior to employment.
  • A current and valid DOT medical card with more than four (4) months remaining until its expiration may be submitted in leu of a DOT physical. If the DOT medical card has four (4) months or less of validity remaining, a DOT physical will be required.
  • Due to interstate operating authority commerce regulations, candidates must be at least 21 years or older.
  • Safe drivers needed; valid driver's license required. Candidate must hold a valid state-of-residence driver's license, be able to obtain and maintain their Driver Qualification File.
  • We conduct background checks, driving records checks, pre-employment drug testing and physical.
  • If you have just separated from Active Military Duty and are looking for that next step in your life, we want to hear from you!

Benefits:

  • Health, dental, vision insurance starts DAY ONE of employment.
  • 401(k) matching starts after 90 days, 100% match up to 6% contribution and an additional 2% discretionary contribution by the company.
  • Accrue up to 200 hours (5-weeks) of Paid Time Off based on your tenure with the company
  • Tuition Assistance/Reimbursement
  • Adoption/Surrogacy assistance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Multiple ERG, diversity groups, and company paid volunteer hours.
  • Employee discounts on new vehicle purchases, cellphone plans, ridesharing, home/rental insurance, wellness/fitness incentives and much more.

Benefits

Employees are eligible to receive a minimum of sixteen hours of paid time off every month and seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.

About Us

Through groundbreaking technology and a commitment to stellar experiences for drivers and dealers alike, Cox Automotive employees are transforming the way the world buys, owns, sells - or simply uses - cars. Cox Automotive employees get to work on iconic consumer brands like Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book and industry-leading dealer-facing companies like vAuto and Manheim, all while enjoying the people-centered atmosphere that is central to our life at Cox. Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO). For more details on what benefits you may be offered, visit our benefits page. Cox is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual's age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cox provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with disability, unless such accommodations would cause an undue hardship.EOE, including disability/vetsApplicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship. No OPT, CPT, STEM/OPT or visa sponsorship now or in future.




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About Cox Communications

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cox Communications is the largest private telecom company in America, serving six million homes and businesses. That's a lot, but we also proudly serve our employees. Our benefits and our award-winning culture are just two of the things that make Cox a coveted place to work. If you're interested in bringing people closer through broadband, smart home tech and more, join Cox Communications today! Cox empowers employees to build a better future and has been doing so for over 120 years. With exciting investments and innovations across transportation, communications, cleantech and healthcare, our family of businesses - which includes Cox Automotive and Cox Communications - is forging a better future for us all. Ready to make your mark?

Industry

Media and telecom

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US