Diesel fitter and heavy vehicle mechanic roles in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.
Diesel mechanics - often called diesel fitters in the resources sector - maintain the heavy equipment that Western Australia's mining industry depends on. Haul trucks, excavators, dozers, drill rigs and mobile plant all require scheduled servicing and breakdown repair, and the cost of downtime means operators pay well for people who can keep machines running.
The trade qualification is a Certificate III in either Mobile Plant Technology or Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology, depending on whether you specialise in earthmoving equipment or road transport. Both are four-year apprenticeships, and both are in demand across WA.
The earnings difference between metropolitan and FIFO work is stark. A diesel mechanic servicing trucks at a Perth workshop earns solidly; the same trade on a mine site maintenance roster commonly earns $50,000 or more above that, with accommodation and flights provided. Original equipment manufacturers such as Komatsu, Caterpillar dealers WesTrac and Hitachi also employ large field service teams, which offers a middle path between workshop and full FIFO.
Average salary ranges for diesel mechanic positions in Kalgoorlie:
| Position Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Apprentice Diesel Mechanic | $40,000 - $62,000 |
| Workshop Diesel Mechanic | $80,000 - $100,000 |
| Field Service Technician | $95,000 - $125,000 |
| FIFO Diesel Fitter | $130,000 - $165,000 |
| Shutdown / Maintenance Fitter | $140,000 - $175,000 |
| Maintenance Supervisor | $150,000 - $195,000 |
Market Outlook: Severe and sustained shortage. Diesel fitters are among the hardest roles for WA resources operators to fill, and mining equipment fleets continue to expand, keeping rates and competition for qualified tradespeople high.
Common qualifications and certifications required for diesel mechanic positions:
Work Environment: Workshop, field service or mine site. Physically demanding with heavy components, outdoor conditions and exposure to heat and dust. FIFO rosters run 12-hour shifts with camp accommodation, meals and flights. Field service involves substantial driving.
Major companies hiring for diesel mechanic positions:
See the full pay breakdown by experience level in our Diesel Mechanic salary guide, including entry-level through senior ranges and the qualifications employers expect.