Javier Soto

Hometown: Marion
Age: 21
Where I trained: Arkansas State University Mid-South
What I earned: Associate degree in Diesel Technology
Job title: Diesel Technician
Employer: Paschall Truck Lines in West Memphis

A job fair at ASU Mid-South introduced Javier Soto to his future boss and career as a diesel technician for Paschall Truck Lines. Armed with two years of diesel tech classes and certification in air conditioning systems, he started at Paschall Truck Lines and has come to love the environment there and the people he works with.

Soto's day-to-day duties include providing basic maintenance on the trucks that come into the shop, repairing obvious damage and prepping the trade-in trucks. He also installs dash cameras and preps the new trucks that come into the shop before they are put out on the road. In order to succeed as a diesel technician, Soto says you should be accountable, willing to work with others, have great time management skills and have a knack for solving problems.

“They need to be precise with their work,” he says. “When someone leaves in that truck, it needs to be done correctly to prevent accidents.”

What does a diesel technician do?

Diesel technicians inspect, maintain, repair and care for diesel engines. Some diesel technicians specialize in a specific type of vehicle. When commercial transportation has malfunctioned, they diagnose the problems and find solutions.

Responsibilities

► Inspect and drive vehicles to troubleshoot problems.

► Use diagnostic equipment and interpret results.

► Perform routine maintenance such as changing the oil and aligning the wheels.

► Repair any malfunctions in the equipment or replace parts.

► Communicate with customers.

► Utilize charts to plan work procedures.

► Tire repair.

► Clutch adjustment or replacement.

► Perform wheel end maintenance and repair.

Education Needed

Technical certificate or associate degree.

Related Occupations

Small engine mechanics, heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians, automotive body and glass repairers, automotive service technicians and mechanics, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians.

JOB OUTLOOK

+12%
expected growth from 2016 to 2026 in Arkansas.

320
average annual job openings in Arkansas.

3,440
jobs in Arkansas by 2026

 High-end earners in Arkansas (top 10%) make
$56,350 Annually
 Median wages in Arkansas
$39,170 Annually
$18.83 Hourly

This option is for you if:

► You have a passion for fixing things.
► You love playing with the latest technology.
► You thrive in a changing work environment.
► You pay attention to the details.
► You’re a team player.

START YOUR TRAINING

READY TO HIRE YOU

"They need to be precise with their work. When someone leaves in that truck, it needs to be done correctly to prevent accidents." –Javier

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