Automotive & Maintenance Paterson, NJ Pop. 159,732

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Paterson, New Jersey

The median diesel mechanic salary in Paterson, NJ is $58,170 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.

City Median
$58,170
vs State Avg
$-5,540
vs National
+$2,770
Cost of Living
105%

Diesel Mechanic Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)

Paterson offers a median diesel mechanic salary of $58,170, which is $5,540 below the New Jersey state average of $63,710. Compared to the national median of $55,400, Paterson pays above average for this role.

Paterson's cost of living is 105% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.

The salary range for diesel mechanics in Paterson spans from $36,750 at the 10th percentile to $86,100 at the 90th percentile — a $49,350 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,850, while senior diesel mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $81,900. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Paterson by Experience

In Paterson, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $38,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$38,850
+$1,850 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,800
+$2,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,900
+$3,900 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ

Percentile Paterson
10th Percentile $36,750
25th Percentile $45,150
Median (50th) $58,170
75th Percentile $72,450
90th Percentile $86,100

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Other New Jersey Cities

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Paterson

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Find Diesel Mechanic Jobs in Paterson

Browse open diesel mechanic positions in Paterson, NJ:

Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Paterson

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Paterson, NJ? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Paterson, New Jersey is $58,170 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $36,750 (10th percentile) to $86,100 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Paterson? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,170, a diesel mechanic in Paterson earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
How does Paterson compare to the New Jersey state average for diesel mechanic pay? ▼
Paterson's median diesel mechanic salary of $58,170 is 8.7% below the New Jersey state average of $63,710. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
What is the cost of living in Paterson, NJ? ▼
Paterson has a cost of living index of 105% compared to the national average. This means a diesel mechanic salary of $58,170 in Paterson has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.
What qualifications do I need to become a diesel mechanic in Paterson? ▼
Most diesel mechanic positions in Paterson require a high school diploma. Key skills include Diesel Engines, Hydraulic Systems, Electrical Diagnostics, Preventive Maintenance. The job market is projected to grow 5% nationally over the next decade.