Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Use handtools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.89
Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.83
Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.81
Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.80
Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.79
Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.79
Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.78
Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.77
Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.76
Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.76
Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.76
Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.75

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Inspect and verify dimensions and clearances of parts to ensure conformance to factory specifications.74
Disassemble and overhaul internal combustion engines, pumps, generators, transmissions, clutches, and differential units.74
Adjust or repair computer controlled exhaust emissions devices.73
Rebuild gas or diesel engines.73
Specialize in repairing and maintaining parts of the engine, such as fuel injection systems.72
Measure vehicle emissions to determine whether they are within acceptable limits.71
Follow green operational practices involving conservation of water or energy or reduction of solid waste.71
Recondition and replace parts, pistons, bearings, gears, and valves.70
Install or repair accessories.69
Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.68
Dismount, mount, and repair or replace tires.67
Align front ends and suspension systems.66
Maintain or repair vehicles with alternative fuel systems, including biodiesel, hybrid, or compressed natural gas vehicles.61
Operate valve-grinding machines to grind and reset valves.53

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Repairing75
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Troubleshooting75
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Operations Monitoring63
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Equipment Maintenance60
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Critical Thinking56
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Quality Control Analysis56
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Equipment Selection53
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Judgment and Decision Making53
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Speaking53
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening50
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving50
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Monitoring50
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

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Operation and Control50
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Coordination47
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Reading Comprehension47
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Systems Analysis47
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Active Learning44
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Learning Strategies44
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Social Perceptiveness44
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Systems Evaluation44
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Writing41
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Installation28
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Instructing28
Teaching others how to do something.
Service Orientation28
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Management of Personnel Resources25
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Mathematics25
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Negotiation25
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Persuasion25
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Management of Financial Resources22
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources22
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operations Analysis22
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Programming22
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Technology Design22
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Science19
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Mechanical94
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Transportation72
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Education and Training64
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language63
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Public Safety and Security61
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Computers and Electronics57
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Mathematics57
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Administration and Management51
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Production and Processing49
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Customer and Personal Service48
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Physics46
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Engineering and Technology45
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

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Chemistry44
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Design43
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Law and Government39
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Building and Construction37
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Telecommunications37
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Personnel and Human Resources35
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Psychology33
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Communications and Media30
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Biology28
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Administrative25
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Geography25
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Sales and Marketing20
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Economics and Accounting17
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Therapy and Counseling17
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Food Production15
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
History and Archeology13
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Sociology and Anthropology10
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Fine Arts8
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Medicine and Dentistry7
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Philosophy and Theology7
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Foreign Language4
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Near Vision75
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Arm-Hand Steadiness72
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Finger Dexterity72
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Manual Dexterity72
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Control Precision69
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity69
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Deductive Reasoning66
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Multilimb Coordination66
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Problem Sensitivity66
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Extent Flexibility63
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Information Ordering60
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Trunk Strength60
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.

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Visualization56
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Auditory Attention53
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception53
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Flexibility of Closure53
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Inductive Reasoning53
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension53
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression53
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Far Vision50
The ability to see details at a distance.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Reaction Time50
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Speech Recognition50
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Static Strength50
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Visual Color Discrimination50
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Category Flexibility47
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Speech Clarity47
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Time Sharing47
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Written Comprehension47
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Fluency of Ideas44
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Gross Body Equilibrium44
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Response Orientation44
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Stamina44
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Originality41
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Rate Control41
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Sound Localization41
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Written Expression41
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Dynamic Strength31
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Gross Body Coordination31
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Speed of Limb Movement31
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Wrist-Finger Speed31
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Memorization28
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Speed of Closure28
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Glare Sensitivity25
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Mathematical Reasoning25
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Night Vision25
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Number Facility25
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Peripheral Vision25
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Spatial Orientation25
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Explosive Strength22
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Dynamic Flexibility6
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment91
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials85
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Getting Information82
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events82
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment81
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems78
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment78
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Controlling Machines and Processes76
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Performing General Physical Activities76
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge75
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Handling and Moving Objects74
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings73
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

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Analyzing Data or Information70
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates68
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Documenting/Recording Information67
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Working with Computers65
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards64
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Processing Information64
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work58
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others57
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment54
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information54
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Thinking Creatively54
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships53
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Developing Objectives and Strategies52
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Performing Administrative Activities49
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People48
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Coaching and Developing Others47
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others46
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Training and Teaching Others46
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Assisting and Caring for Others44
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Scheduling Work and Activities42
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others39
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization34
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Developing and Building Teams33
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates33
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources32
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others27
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Selling or Influencing Others26
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public23
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Staffing Organizational Units15
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Dependability82
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Attention to Detail81
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Cautiousness65
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Perseverance59
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Stress Tolerance42
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Integrity41
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Achievement Orientation37
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Intellectual Curiosity32
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Adaptability30
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Innovation28
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Self-Confidence27
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Initiative25
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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Self-Control25
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Cooperation24
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Sincerity16
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Optimism11
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Tolerance for Ambiguity8
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic100
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional46
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative38
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Social9
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Enterprising5
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Artistic0
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day85%
- Once a week or more but not every day12%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually80%
- More than half the time19%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day78%
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day90%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day68%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day81%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility72%
- High responsibility16%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day74%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important53%
- Very important38%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Continually or almost continually59%
- More than half the time25%
- About half the time14%
Spend Time Standing
- Continually or almost continually59%
- More than half the time22%
- About half the time18%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Every day67%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%

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Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results69%
- Important results12%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others51%
- Contact with others most of the time31%
- Contact with others about half the time12%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom55%
- Some freedom30%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day60%
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day49%
- Once a week or more but not every day31%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day66%
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day52%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually40%
- More than half the time43%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom45%
- Some freedom24%
- Limited freedom24%
Time Pressure
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day39%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours53%
- 40 hours46%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Continually or almost continually40%
- More than half the time24%
- About half the time29%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility44%
- High responsibility32%
- No responsibility12%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Every day49%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important31%
- Very important41%
- Important11%
- Fairly important18%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day57%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Never23%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important41%
- Important39%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually35%
- More than half the time24%
- About half the time17%
- Less than half the time24%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day48%
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never16%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious31%
- Very serious16%
- Serious25%
- Fairly serious22%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Never32%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important28%
- Very important17%
- Important26%
- Not important at all25%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Every day38%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Never37%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)46%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)21%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)27%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Continually or almost continually28%
- About half the time29%
- Less than half the time26%
- Never13%
E-Mail
- Every day26%
- Once a week or more but not every day30%
- Never38%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive21%
- Moderately competitive38%
- Slightly competitive15%
- Not at all competitive18%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Never39%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important26%
- Important32%
- Fairly important13%
- Not important at all20%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day29%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never11%
Exposed to High Places
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never14%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Every day22%
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never33%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day12%
- Once a week or more but not every day43%
- Never44%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never19%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Never53%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- About half the time20%
- Less than half the time58%
- Never12%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day16%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never46%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important19%
- Important13%
- Fairly important11%
- Not important at all49%
Public Speaking
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never62%
Spend Time Sitting
- About half the time17%
- Less than half the time43%
- Never40%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never77%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated21%
- Slightly automated14%
- Not at all automated66%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)13%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)87%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never99%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never99%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Post-secondary certificate
High school diploma or equivalent

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD, Dassault Systemes CATIA, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
Facilities management software
Computerized maintenance management system software CMMS, Shop management software
Analytical or scientific software
Cummins INSITE, Engine diagnostic software
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
SAP software
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Data base user interface and query software
Database software
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
Fleet management software
Calendar and scheduling software
Scheduling software
Inventory management software
Inventory tracking software

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
Inspect mechanical components of vehicles to identify problems.
Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
Adjust vehicle components according to specifications.
Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
Lubricate equipment to allow proper functioning.
Service vehicles to maintain functionality.
Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Observe equipment in operation to detect potential problems.
Repair non-engine automotive or vehicle components.
Operate transportation equipment to demonstrate function or malfunction.
Rewire electrical or electronic systems.

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Troubleshoot equipment or systems operation problems.
Repair defective engines or engine components.
Dismantle heavy equipment or machinery.
Measure distances or dimensions.
Service green vehicles to make repairs or maintain good working order.
Measure equipment outputs.
Monitor resources.
Rebuild parts or components.
Replace worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
Install vehicle parts or accessories.
Repair tires.
Align equipment or machinery.
Grind parts to required dimensions.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Bus Maintenance Technician
Crane Mechanic (Existing Title: Mechanic, Industrial Truck)
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel Mechanic (Alternate Title: Power-Generation Equipment Repairer)
Machinist, Marine Engine
Maint Mechanic (Const; Petrol) (Alternate Title: Heavy-Wheel Vehicle Mechanic )
Mechanic, Industrial Truck (Alternate Titles: Diesel Mech/Power-Gen Equip Rep)
Oil Field Equip Mechanic
Oil Field Equip Mechanic(Op I Frac-Acd
Tractor Mechanic
Transit Bus Technician (Cbof)

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology