2

Entry Level Diesel Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-54

Entry Level Diesel Tech information

See California salary details

$14

$30

$45

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level diesel tech in California is $30.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level diesel tech?

An Entry Level Diesel Tech, or Entry Level Diesel Technician, is a professional who assists in the maintenance, repair, and inspection of diesel engines and vehicles under the supervision of senior technicians. They perform basic tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, and diagnostic checks while learning more advanced repair techniques on the job. This role is ideal for individuals who have recently completed a technical training program or have some hands-on experience with automotive or diesel engines. Entry Level Diesel Techs gain practical experience and develop skills necessary for more advanced positions in the diesel technology field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Diesel Tech, you need foundational knowledge of diesel engine mechanics, vehicle systems, and a high school diploma or technical certification in diesel technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, repair manuals, and shop management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate diagnostics, effective repairs, and safe, efficient service in a demanding automotive environment.

What types of hands-on training and mentorship can an entry level diesel tech expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Diesel Tech, you can typically expect a combination of structured on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced technicians during your first year. You'll likely start with basic maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections, gradually taking on more complex repairs as you demonstrate proficiency. Most shops foster a collaborative environment where senior techs provide guidance, answer questions, and occasionally supervise your work to ensure safety and quality. This supportive structure is designed to help you build confidence, develop technical skills, and prepare for more advanced responsibilities as you progress in your career.

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

AspectEntry Level Diesel TechDiesel Service Technician
CertificationsBasic diesel mechanic certifications, such as ASE Entry LevelAdvanced certifications, including ASE Master Diesel Technician
Work EnvironmentGarages, repair shops, dealershipsSimilar environments, often with more complex diagnostics
Job ResponsibilitiesBasic repairs, routine maintenance, inspectionsMore complex repairs, troubleshooting, system diagnostics

Entry Level Diesel Techs typically perform basic maintenance and repairs with foundational certifications, while Diesel Service Technicians handle more complex diagnostics and repairs, often requiring advanced certifications. Both roles are found in similar work environments within the automotive and trucking industries, but Diesel Service Technicians usually have more experience and specialized skills.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Diesel Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,165 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Lift Truck Service Technician III

Total Industries

Livermore, CA

$41.63 - $52.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO BUILD A CAREER?

TOTAL Industries is a great place to call home. As a Service Technician, you'll perform the diagnoses, maintenance, and repair of mechanical, electronic, gas/diesel and hydraulic material handling equipment while ensuring all repairs address the problem and not the symptom. You'll also be expected to identify additional safety, mechanical and other items in need of repair when working on the equipment, and to submit quotes and completed work orders each day. Please note that if you're assigned a field territory, you will need to be able to park a company vehicle at your residence and drive to various customer locations, so your DMV record needs to be solid.   


WHAT IS THE JOB OF A SERVICE TECHNICIAN?

Since we hire service technicians based on level of experience (I, II, III, Journeyman), you may come in as a Shop Technician, reporting to a branch location every day with an assigned bay, or as a Road Technician where you start in our Shop then progress to an assigned territory based on your learning plan and experience, or as a Fleet Technician, where you are dedicated to a large customer with one or a few locations. 


Your day-to-day activities will be determined by your Service Advisor, who will assign you 8 hours of work including performing periodic, routine maintenance services, safety inspections, and repairs on lift trucks and other industrial equipment. We'll expect you to perform those safely and efficiently of course. Also, we expect you to have good written, verbal, and organizational skills and the ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with customers and your colleagues. You'll be on the top of our recruitment list if you also live within a 30-mile radius of the territory listed on this job posting. 


WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

As a service tech, you'll become a union member with Automotive Industries. There are several benefits you'll get because of this. Depending on your location, the company will pay 90-100% of healthcare benefits for you and your family, including: 

Anthem Blue Cross or Kaiser PPO 

Delta Dental plus orthodontics 

VSP Vision 

Life Insurance and Burial benefits 

Supplemental short-term disability income 


We're also proud to offer:

A guaranteed 40 Hour work week in most locations

Auto-enrollment in the Union Pension where available and access to a 401K  

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Uprise 

Annual reimbursement for work boots and prescription safety glasses


Requirements

WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE DO I NEED TO BE A SERVICE TECHNICIAN?

Required

At least six-months experience working on engines to start at our entry level.

High School diploma or equivalent.

Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics.

Proven diagnosis and trouble-shooting skills.

Ability to clearly describe in writing, specific equipment information and findings in English. 

Ability to work safely under pressure, take general directions and use good judgement when working independently.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Ability and willingness to concentrate on a task for long periods, without being easily distracted.

Ability to act in a way that is consistent with our values.

Previous experience working with a computer tablet, typing, and taking photos.

Ability to use Microsoft Office product suite (Outlook, Teams, etc.) and other dealer applications.

Ability to drive a motor vehicle and other industrial equipment if necessary to travel to customer site(s) and test equipment.

Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job.

Ability to work overtime and weekends as needed.

Qualified DMV record, background check and drug screening.


Desired

ASE certifications.

Master Certified Technician (non-Toyota considered).

Technical school certificate of completion.


WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Physical Environment:

  • Required to move frequently, stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, turn, climb, push, pull, squat, and/or remain balanced for extended lengths of time throughout their scheduled working period.
  • Required to reach above and below the shoulder, use repetitive hand, wrist and forearm rotation along with fine manipulation with right and left hands.
  • Required to use hands on a routine and daily basis to grasp, reach, touch, handle, feel, and/or otherwise operate required tools or controls.
  • Required to twist at the neck and waist frequently.
  • Operation of foot controls or repetitive foot movement required for driving equipment including forklift and motor vehicle, including long driving periods to locations across Northern California.
  • Will use tablet as a telephone, messenger, and work tool, so expect to wear a Bluetooth device and use fine hand movements to enter information into the tablet daily.
  • Must be able to move about the work area in a variety of different temperatures and environments and work safely in all weather conditions.
  • Hear with or without correction to be able to interpret and receive information and directions. 
  • Communicate, verbally and in written form, regularly to describe and explain detailed, important, and accurate instructions internally and directly with customers.
  • Occasionally stoop, kneel, or crouch. 
  • The associate must be able to work safely at heights using applicable ladders and elevated working platforms.
  • Must lift 50 pounds without assistance and 100 pounds with assistance from others or utilizing a lifting device.
  • Noise level fluctuates based on worksite. 


Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time.   


The policy of RJMS Corporation is to hire, train, and promote all persons in all job groups in accordance with the law, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital or military status, national origin, gender identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, genetic information, or any other status or characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law. RJMS CORPORATION is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.