Diesel Mechanic Salary in Brookings, SD: $47,644 (2026)

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

Brookings offers a median diesel mechanic salary of $47,644, which is $1,108 below the South Dakota state average of $48,752. Compared to the national median of $55,400, Brookings pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Brookings's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $47,644 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $55,400 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for diesel mechanics seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for diesel mechanics in Brookings spans from $30,100 at the 10th percentile to $70,520 at the 90th percentile — a $40,420 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,820, while senior diesel mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $67,080. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Brookings by Experience

In Brookings, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $31,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,080 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$31,820

$-5,180 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$48,160

$-7,840 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$67,080

$-10,920 vs national

Percentile	Brookings	SD State	National
10th Percentile	$30,100	$30,800	$35,000
25th Percentile	$36,980	$37,840	$43,000
Median (50th)	$47,644	$48,752	$55,400
75th Percentile	$59,340	$60,720	$69,000
90th Percentile	$70,520	$72,160	$82,000

Percentile

Brookings

10th Percentile

$30,100

25th Percentile

$36,980

Median (50th)

$47,644

75th Percentile

$59,340

90th Percentile

$70,520

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Brookings

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota 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 Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Brookings

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Brookings, SD? ▼

The median diesel mechanic salary in Brookings, South Dakota is $47,644 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $30,100 (10th percentile) to $70,520 (90th percentile).

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Brookings? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $47,644, a diesel mechanic in Brookings earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Brookings compare to the South Dakota state average for diesel mechanic pay? ▼

Brookings's median diesel mechanic salary of $47,644 is 2.3% below the South Dakota state average of $48,752. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Brookings, SD? ▼

Brookings has a cost of living index of 86% compared to the national average. This means a diesel mechanic salary of $47,644 in Brookings has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a diesel mechanic in Brookings? ▼

Most diesel mechanic positions in Brookings 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.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Brookings, South Dakota