Post job

Tractor trailer mechanic vs light wheel mechanic

The differences between tractor trailer mechanics and light wheel mechanics can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a tractor trailer mechanic and a light wheel mechanic. Additionally, a tractor trailer mechanic has an average salary of $47,816, which is higher than the $41,948 average annual salary of a light wheel mechanic.

The top three skills for a tractor trailer mechanic include DOT, hand tools and troubleshoot. The most important skills for a light wheel mechanic are mechanical problems, electrical systems, and equipment systems.

Tractor trailer mechanic vs light wheel mechanic overview

Tractor Trailer MechanicLight Wheel Mechanic
Yearly salary$47,816$41,948
Hourly rate$22.99$20.17
Growth rate4%4%
Number of jobs86,89590,297
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 46%High School Diploma, 41%
Average age4242
Years of experience22

Tractor trailer mechanic vs light wheel mechanic salary

Tractor trailer mechanics and light wheel mechanics have different pay scales, as shown below.

Tractor Trailer MechanicLight Wheel Mechanic
Average salary$47,816$41,948
Salary rangeBetween $35,000 And $63,000Between $25,000 And $67,000
Highest paying CitySpringfield, MA-
Highest paying stateCalifornia-
Best paying companyXPO Logistics-
Best paying industryAutomotive-

Differences between tractor trailer mechanic and light wheel mechanic education

There are a few differences between a tractor trailer mechanic and a light wheel mechanic in terms of educational background:

Tractor Trailer MechanicLight Wheel Mechanic
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 46%High School Diploma, 41%
Most common majorAutomotive TechnologyAutomotive Technology
Most common college--

Tractor trailer mechanic vs light wheel mechanic demographics

Here are the differences between tractor trailer mechanics' and light wheel mechanics' demographics:

Tractor Trailer MechanicLight Wheel Mechanic
Average age4242
Gender ratioMale, 97.9% Female, 2.1%Male, 87.4% Female, 12.6%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 9.5% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 14.7% Asian, 2.5% White, 67.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%Black or African American, 9.0% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 17.4% Asian, 2.5% White, 65.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage2%2%

Differences between tractor trailer mechanic and light wheel mechanic duties and responsibilities

Tractor trailer mechanic example responsibilities.

  • Accomplish several other kenworth basic training modules.Skills UsedProblem solving, mechanical aptitude, and efficient workmanship.
  • Dot inspections, drive line component service.
  • Maintain trailers, overhead doors, lift gates & dollies
  • Stick welding and MIG welding equipment to fabricate & repair metal parts.
  • Work on all types of lawn mowers, tractors and tractor implements.
  • Perform HVAC repairs ranging from troubleshooting to retrofits to complete system replacements.
  • Show more

Light wheel mechanic example responsibilities.

  • Manage projects dot compliance and driver logs.
  • DOT inspections on assign vehicles.
  • Install and run hydrolic lines.
  • Complete basic training and additional AIT training.
  • Assist in the diagnosis and repairs of the tractor/trailer fleet.
  • Maintain CDL to transport vehicles from one location to another.
  • Show more

Tractor trailer mechanic vs light wheel mechanic skills

Common tractor trailer mechanic skills
  • DOT, 21%
  • Hand Tools, 13%
  • Troubleshoot, 9%
  • Preventive Maintenance, 6%
  • Shop Equipment, 6%
  • Electrical Systems, 6%
Common light wheel mechanic skills
  • Mechanical Problems, 36%
  • Electrical Systems, 21%
  • Equipment Systems, 18%
  • MOS, 9%
  • Track Vehicles, 9%
  • AIT, 5%

Browse installation, maintenance and repair jobs