Fleet technicians are skilled professionals who repair or service engines and vehicles for businesses and industries that rely on delivery vehicles, service vehicles, trucks, buses, etc. Just like other technicians, fleet technicians are essential workers in the automotive industry. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, NY, offers automotive technology programs that can help train you for a fleet technician career.

As a fleet technician, you must have extensive knowledge of automotive technology. You must understand each vehicle’s components and how they work. At NYADI, our automotive technology program focuses on training students in the following areas:

• Brakes & automatic transmissions
• Engine repair
• Heating & air conditioning
• Manual drive train
• Electrical & electronic systems
• Engine performance
• Steering & suspension

What Is a Fleet Technician?

Fleet technicians work for firms and businesses that use vehicles to move goods or perform services, or a fleet of equipment to complete work. These vehicles may include large diesel-powered trucks that transport commodities across the country, or cranes and bulldozers used by a construction company, or regular-sized cars used by rental car agencies. Other examples include:

• Limousines for chauffeur companies
• Buses used by schools or public transportation agencies
• Police and fire department vehicles
• Public utility fleets for maintenance and repair services, such as electrician services

Fleet technicians service, maintain, and diagnose these vehicles so business activities and public services are not interrupted.

Fleet Technicians’ Top Responsibilities

Fleet technicians have comprehensive responsibilities in the automotive industry. They are mechanics and technicians employed by specific companies to service company-owned vehicles. This may offer them similar perks to someone working in a corporate job. If you’re interested in becoming a fleet technician, NYADI will teach you how to handle a variety of duties, which include:

• Inspecting and maintaining windshield wipers, engines, brakes, exhaust systems, steering mechanisms, tires, lights, windows, radios, shock absorbers, and other components in vehicles
• Reporting mechanical issues in vehicles
• Using multiple computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to monitor repair orders, job costs, and inventory levels
• Regularly inspecting vehicles for appearance defects and operation
• Diagnosing vehicle electrical system faults and fixing the components
• Communicating with management to answer questions regarding the condition of vehicles or to organize future appointments

Fleet technicians may work in a company garage. When vehicles or equipment break down and cannot be towed, fleet technicians may travel to conduct the repairs. They may also collaborate with other mechanics and assist in fleet management.

How to Become a Fleet Technician

As with any other mechanic employment, employers want to hire fleet technicians with Automotive Technology or Automotive & Diesel Technology training. In addition to training, employers prefer accreditation from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) for fleet technicians.

ASE is the standard certification for service technicians in the automotive and diesel industries. Since certification requires two years of work experience, many fleet technicians get ASE-certified while working.

Our academic programs based on ASE standards can help you become a fleet technician. NYADI’s one-on-one tutoring based on your learning needs will help you start your fleet technician career and build the foundation for other career paths, such as becoming a fleet manager.

Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook and income for fleet mechanics will vary by employer, location, vehicle type, and other variables. There are fleet technician positions in various businesses and every state. In May 2021, the median annual pay for bus, truck technicians, and diesel engine specialists was $48,690 in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The agency expects the employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics to grow by 4% through 2031. The agency also expects 28,500 job openings within the decade. The high demand for fleet technicians makes it a fantastic career option if you need stability.

Start Your Fleet Technician Career at NYADI

Fleet technicians are essential workers in the automotive industry. Becoming a fleet technician will give you flexibility since your skills will most likely be transferable to other industries.

NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, based in Jamaica, NY, offers career services to help you choose a rewarding career and to help with job search skills. We also proudly welcome students from all backgrounds, including those who don’t have a GED or high school diploma. Contact our admissions representative and let us help you start your career.