A diesel mechanic is a technician who works on diesel-powered vehicles and machines. They will spend most days inspecting vehicles, identifying problems and repairing them.
What is a Diesel Mechanic’s Job?
A diesel mechanic is a tradesperson that guarantees the optimal functioning of motors and diesel engines. This vocation involves repairing and maintaining vehicles of various types by inspecting potential issues and replacing damaged parts.
The occupational duties of an auto mechanic include:
● Test driving the vehicle if necessary or possible
● Using electronic equipment to identify and confirm potential electrical issues
● Using charts and manuals to identify solutions to repair issues
● Calculating the potential costs of repair and new components
How Much Does a Diesel Mechanic Earn in a Year?
With the proper knowledge and mechanical skills obtained from courses and hands-on experience, a diesel mechanic can gain a high salary in South Africa. Additional training and learning can come with extra benefits and bonuses in the long run.
At the moment, the average hourly pay for diesel mechanics is R148.48.
Depending on your level of abilities and experience, you can earn between R35 and R184 per hour in addition to which you may also receive a bonus ranging between R4,427 and R31,707 calculated for an entire year.
How to Work as a Diesel Mechanic in South Africa
South Africa has a wide market for Mechanic jobs, with over 720 available listings at the moment.
There is considerable demand for expert diesel mechanics in several sectors of the automotive industry. Candidates that meet the obligatory qualifications and professional skills have several options available where they can apply for this trade.
Diesel mechanic courses provide a dependable instrument of learning and training in this craft. Graduating them should provide you with the necessary diesel mechanic skills and qualifications as well as with a reputable competitive advantage over other applicants for the same position.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Diesel Mechanic?
SETA: MERSETA
Seta Code: 653306
NQF Levels: NQF 4
SAQA Code:
97592 – Occupational Certificate
Diesel engines are highly durable and efficient. Still, they need constant updating and maintenance. Repairing the diesel motor of a vehicle requires proficient mechanics skills and experience. That is why the diesel mechanic specialization enjoys wide appreciation in South Africa.
Skilled artisans can practice their craft on almost any motorised vehicle from buses to heavy-duty bulldozers and commercial boats. Their skills are necessary for repairing difficult functioning issues and maximizing fuel efficiency while reducing harmful emissions.
To become a diesel mechanic, one must have a Matric Grade 10 certificate. Some employers may prefer higher certifications or additional school certificates. Registered technicians in this field have to earn their skills and knowledge from short courses and practical learning before they are eligible to earn an entry-level salary.
The job of a diesel mechanic in South Africa is part of the MerSETA (Manufacturing Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority) landscape. To be able to apply for this position, you must:
Be at least 16 years old
NQF Level 1 with a pass in Mathematics
Intec Diesel Mechanic Certificate or equivalent
NQF Level 1 qualification with a pass in Mathematics
Have 4 years of apprenticeship
Possess excellent knowledge of mechanics and diesel engines
Have a national certificate that shows the completion of mechanic courses
How to Enter
Schooling & School Subjects
Grade 10 Certificate.
Some employers demand higher qualifications
What to Study
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
An apprenticeship is a fixed contract between company and apprentice, ranging in duration from between 18 months and 4 years. At the end of the contract, the apprentice writes a trade test leading to professional certification.
A learnership is a structured learning programme ranging from about a year to 3 years. A learnership comprises theoretical and practical
training. Practical training is conducted on site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets experience whilst training.
TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) Colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (NCV) similar to the new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a TVET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
Where can I study diesel mechanics in South Africa?
Barloworld Motor Retail South Africa is accredited by the merSETA to deliver Diesel and Motor Mechanic apprentice training in South Africa. We offer training, both theoretical and practical, for apprentices in the Automotive Industry.
How much does it cost to study diesel mechanic in South Africa?
Diesel Mechanic training center
Diesel mechanic training costs R9500 and takes 4-8 weeks.
How many years does it take to become a diesel mechanic in South Africa ?
A learner ship is a structured learning programme (roughly for a year to 3 years). A learner ship comprises theoretical and practical training. Practical training is conducted on site (on the premises of the organization). This has the advantage that the learner gets experience whilst training.
What does a diesel mechanic earn in South Africa?
A Qualified Diesel Mechanic with 4-9 years of experience earns an average salary of R 18 000, while an experienced Diesel Mechanic with 10-20 years of experience makes on average R 23 000. Diesel Mechanics with more than 20 years of experience may earn more than R 27 000 per month.
Which subjects are required for diesel mechanic in South Africa?
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Diesel Mechanic?
Be at least 16 years old.
NQF Level 1 with a pass in Mathematics.
Intec Diesel Mechanic Certificate or equivalent.
NQF Level 1 qualification with a pass in Mathematics.
Have 4 years of apprenticeship.
Possess excellent knowledge of mechanics and diesel engines.
What qualifications do you need to be a mechanic in South Africa?
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Mechanic?
Be at least 16 years old.
NQF Level 1 with a pass in Mathematics.
Have 4 years of apprenticeship.
Possess excellent knowledge of mechanics and diesel engines.
Have a national certificate that shows the completion of mechanic courses.
Is there a high demand for diesel mechanics in South Africa ?
Job Outlook
Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Is it hard to become a diesel mechanic in South Africa ?
It can also be possible to learn to become a diesel mechanic without formal education by learning on the job. However, it is often difficult for these mechanics to earn more and move up. It can also be a challenge to find a job outside of the company that conducted the training.
How much does a diesel mechanic earn in the mines in South Africa ?
Some statistics estimate the median salary of WA heavy duty diesel mechanics job Australia to be upwards of R 1692666.99a year, which is easily one of the highest rates for heavy duty mechanic jobs in South Africa . Experienced diesel mechanics can also expect to earn even more than this.
How long does it take to become a mechanic in South Africa?
An apprenticeship contract of five years, which I completed by passing a trade test after a mandatory two years. A patient and mechanically-inspired individual with a passion for automobiles.