Auto Tech vs Diesel Tech
Side-by-side salary, job growth, and training comparison for 2026
Auto Tech
$47,770
National Median Salary
Total Jobs794,600
Annual Openings69,000
Training1-2 yr certificate
Diesel Tech
$54,690
National Median Salary
Total Jobs300,000
Annual Openings28,100
Training1-2 yr certificate
Metric
Auto Tech
Diesel Tech
Median Salary National, BLS 2023 | $47,770 | $54,690* |
Total Jobs Current employment | 794,600* | 300,000 |
Annual Job Openings New + replacement | 69,000* | 28,100 |
Training Time | 1-2 yr certificate | 1-2 yr certificate |
* indicates higher/better value. Source: BLS OES 2023.
Top States for Auto Techs
Alaska$68,430
Washington$62,180
Connecticut$61,340
Hawaii$60,780
California$59,230
Top States for Diesel Techs
Alaska$79,870
Washington$74,320
Connecticut$71,450
Wyoming$70,120
California$68,790