I would think the quickest path to the shop floor is a certificate from a known trade school. Check and confirm their placement relationship with shops that interest you.

[Harshness follows]
I don’t hire mechanics for a modern shop but familiarity with a 30 year old MB Diesel won’t get you an interview with me unless my shop that caters exclusively to 30 year old MB Diesels. I imagine if there is such shop it’s fully staffed. It might help if you’re at least 60 and your name if Jurgen or Dieter or Wilhelm :p Seriously, you need to know your way around systems like SDS if you’re going to be useful in a modern shop. I can’t imagine pure shadetree mechanic skills getting you further than Jiffy Lube. Maybe Midas or Firestone if you know someone.

Maybe you present yourself well so give it a try. Just be ready to invest in certification if it’s really your goal.

Here are some listings near you:

https://norfolk.craigslist.org/trd/d/auto-technician-mechanic/6439444779.html

https://norfolk.craigslist.org/lab/d/diesel-mechanic/6439020014.html

https://norfolk.craigslist.org/trd/d/mechanic-needed/6440738549.html

https://norfolk.craigslist.org/trd/d/auto-tech-monday-fridayalso/6439006880.html

https://norfolk.craigslist.org/trd/d/automotive-technician/6434907782.html

Sixto
98 E320s sedan and wagon