
Automotive technicians make an excellent salary. This article outlines the job description, education requirements, salary range, as well as the years of experience required. If you are looking for a new job, this article will help you find it. This job is for those who are passionate about cars, enjoy a healthy lifestyle and love learning.
Job description
An automotive technician's average salary varies depending on where they live and what company they work for. The highest paying states include California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Washington, and Washington D.C. However, the majority of states require high school diplomas or GEDs. Because of the lower cost of living in the South, this is a good thing. Here are some cities that you can expect to earn a decent living as an automotive technician.
Based on experience, education, and employer, the average automotive technician's wage will vary. While experience is important in any trade, it's also important to have the ability to work hard. A technician's salary can be extremely lucrative if you combine the high wage rate with a good life. There is no minimum salary, and the amount paid can vary from one place to another.

Education is required
An education in automotive technology can help you reach your dream of working in the car industry. You'll be able to repair and diagnose problems related to cars with this degree. While automotive technicians were traditionally limited to working on mechanical problems, electrical technicians are now required to do the same. To earn a higher salary, you should consider pursuing an education that will help you develop your professional skills.
Texas has a median salary for an automotive technician at $46,680. The average salary for master mechanics certified by ASE is $25,480 to $76,660. Getting certified as an ASE master mechanic will increase your salary by as much as $11,000 or more! It's possible to make a living in the automotive repair industry, and you will be happy to know that you can earn more than the average.
Salary range
ZipRecruiter says that the average annual salary for Automotive Technicians is $51,820. The least paid individuals are those who did not go to college. An associate's degree in automotive technician earns them $43,110 per annum. However, those who have not completed college earn an average annual salary of $38,050. In the South, wages are lower than the national average, though costs of living are lower. You can find a variety of salary options in your local area, regardless if you are looking to buy a car or work at an established repair shop.
Automotive Technicians are paid an average salary of $48,087 each year from 2004 to $66,312 in 2020. This profession's pay is determined by a number of factors including education level, experience, and location. An hourly wage is likely to be higher for those with a Master’s degree than for those who are not certified mechanics. It all depends on how experienced you are and whether you work for an independent contractor, large auto repair shops, or both.

Experience required
For a job as an automotive technician you need to have a strong understanding of mechanics and engine systems. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are also a benefit. Safety is an important consideration for employers. Master Certified certifications can take between one and two years. The training involves both theory and practical classes. Although the pay is good, it might not be enough to attract top employers.
ASE certification for technicians is a national standard. It allows you to set yourself apart from the competition and earn higher wages. ASE certification can be obtained in eight areas and requires at minimum two years of experience. You must pass an examination each five years in order to keep your ASE certification. Eight tests are required to be certified as a master technician in automotive technology. Learn more about UTI's Automotive Tech program. It is also a great option to get ASE-certified, which can be replaced by two years of experience.
FAQ
What are the requirements for an automobile technician?
You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. You must also be able to read, and write. After passing a written test, you will need to complete a series of practical tests before you are allowed to begin working.
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
There are three main areas of employment for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people consider becoming a mechanic. It's the easiest way for most people to get started. You have two options: work in an existing shop or open your own.
If you decide to work at a shop, you'll need to apply to join a union. After you are accepted to the union, you will receive training from it.
After the training, you will be ready to go and start your job.
Registering with the government is required if you intend to open a garage. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
You will receive a license to run your garage once you have registered.
Your license allows you to sell spare parts and make minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
Customers will expect you to not only sell spare parts but also provide advice and guidance.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who specialize in one area of the car. For instance, they may only be qualified to fix brakes or change tires.
Some dealerships hire general mechanics to handle all aspects of car repair.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. This allows employers to select the most qualified candidates for their roles.
Some dealerships hire students straight out of college. These graduates have no difficulty learning about cars because they already know the basics and principles of mechanical engineering.
Independent garages
Independent garages don’t have to be associated with any particular dealer. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer service.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. Because these jobs don't have to be associated with any company, they can generally offer better wages than dealerships.
However, independent garages do not necessarily offer better workplaces. Many owners prefer to run their businesses themselves rather than delegate responsibility to employees.
It is possible to work long hours, but not have any control over the day.
You should also expect to earn lower wages than if you were employed at a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. Ask your employer if you would like to work as a mechanic at a dealership.
Or, if your dream is to work for an independent garage you can contact the owner directly.
The bad news? Finding a new position isn't always easy. There are plenty of other factors that influence how much you earn.
Consider, for example, what type of vehicle you are repairing and whether additional labor charges will apply.
Is it difficult to become a mechanic apprentice
It's not simple, but you can learn quickly and there are many avenues for advancement.
You need to have patience and perseverance. You will also need to be able fix cars, trucks and motorcycles.
Customers and relatives can exert a lot on you. But, you shouldn’t be pressured to make any decisions you aren’t happy with.
This could be an excellent career choice for someone who enjoys fixing cars. You can make a decent living and build your business.
However, you might prefer to go down another route. If this is the case, you might want to become a technician.
This could involve using your technical knowledge to support other employees. Technicians could benefit from your technical expertise to solve problems or teach new techniques.
Another option is becoming a service advisor. Here, you'll provide advice and assistance to customers when they bring their cars to a garage.
Your choice is based on what you choose to do. There are many options and you have the ability to choose the one that is right for you.
What is the length of an automotive training course?
A course in automotive lasts three years.
The first year is dedicated to theory and learning about cars. The second year is dedicated towards practical training. This includes learning how to drive, fix engine problems, and doing other maintenance jobs around your car. You will spend the final year working in a local garage to gain real-world experience.
How do I prepare to be a mechanic apprentice?
It is essential to understand what you are getting into. You should be familiar with the mechanics of cars, and how they work. This will allow you to be prepared for your first day at work.
You also need to know how to fix simple problems such as broken lights, tires, etc.
This will teach you how to diagnose problems and fix them yourself.
Also, it is important to know how parts fit together so that you can put them back together.
Finally, you should be able use tools safely.
These are all things that will make you a competent mechanic.
How long is an apprenticeship for an automotive mechanic?
The apprenticeship to become an automotive mechanic takes about three years. It includes two years of school and two years as an apprentice. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. You will also learn to use tools efficiently and safely during this period. After the completion of the first year, you will spend another year on the job training. Here you'll gain valuable experience in different trades. These periods will also give you the chance to take formal courses.
The final year of the program is spent gaining qualifications and becoming certified in the field. These include NVQs. They are awarded after passing exams on specific topics within the industry. You can also get HNCs (Higher National Certificates), that cover subjects such as customer service, business administration, management, and business administration. City & Guilds certificates may be available for those who are interested in becoming qualified in specific trades.
Statistics
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she repairs cars, trucks, motorbikes and snowmobiles for customers. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
If you want to be an automotive technician, you need an associate degree from vocational school. After completing this program the student must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exam (ASE). ASE stands to American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists two sections. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. To pass the test, you will need to visit an authorized testing location. You can find these locations online or through your local automobile dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require that candidates attend training courses, while others permit them to learn independently. Some states issue licenses to technicians as soon as they get their license. Others wait until they have worked at least six months as an automotive technician.
To become an automotive technician, one must apply at a local dealership. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeship programs typically last three to four years. During this time, a student learns how to perform basic repairs, such as changing oil, adjusting brakes, replacing tires, cleaning spark plugs, inspecting engine compartments, and performing routine maintenance. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. However, there are some schools that offer evening classes for those who need them.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen spend typically four to five years learning to install major systems such as transmissions and differentials, steering gear, suspensions and drive shafts. Journeymen also learn to fix complicated problems, such as rebuilding engines or troubleshooting electric components. Because they have a good understanding of the job and what customers expect, many employers prefer to hire journeymen.
Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there were nearly 1.7 million jobs available for automotive mechanics in 2010. This number was expected increase 18% between 2009 - 2020. If a candidate decides to open his/her own shop, he/she should prepare to invest many thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies.
The salary for an automotive technician depends on several factors, including the type of employer, location, education level, and experience. On average, a jobless person could expect to earn $20,000 annually. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. Associate's degrees earn approximately $24,000 per annum. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earned about $27,000 per year. And those with master's degrees made around $32,000 per year. Salary increases are common so professionals who make less than $30,000 a year could realistically expect to earn $40,000 over the next few years.