AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNICIANS AND MECHANICS

Written By Keandra Wilson

1. OVERVIEW

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks. These professionals are vital to keeping vehicles running smoothly, diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems, and ensuring vehicle safety and performance.

2024 Median Pay: $49,670 per year ($23.88/hour)
Job Growth (2023–2033): +3% (as fast as average)
Typical Education: Postsecondary nondegree award

2. ROLE BREAKDOWN BY LEVEL

ENTRY LEVEL

Job Titles: Lube Technician, Auto Technician Trainee, Technician Helper
Education: Vocational Certificate or Postsecondary Non-Degree Award
Experience: 0–2 years; internships or training programs recommended
Certifications (Optional): EPA 609 (Refrigerant Handling), ASE Student Certifications

Core Duties:

  • Perform oil changes and basic fluid services

  • Conduct tire rotations and inspections

  • Assist with brake, battery, and light engine diagnostics

  • Use basic diagnostic tools

Salary Range: $33,000–$45,000

MID LEVEL

Job Titles: Automotive Technician, Brake Technician, Drivability Technician
Education: Postsecondary certificate or Associate’s Degree
Experience: 3–6 years in service shop settings
Certifications (Recommended): Multiple ASE Certifications, OEM Training (e.g., Toyota T-TEN, GM ASEP)

Core Duties:

  • Perform advanced diagnostics using scan tools

  • Repair or replace parts like brakes, wheel bearings, and sensors

  • Understand and work with electronic control systems

  • Communicate findings and repairs to customers

Salary Range: $45,000–$65,000

SENIOR LEVEL

Job Titles: ASE Master Technician, Lead Technician, Shop Foreman
Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s (optional) + Significant Experience
Experience: 7+ years including supervisory experience
Certifications (Preferred): ASE Master Technician, Advanced Engine Performance Specialist

Core Duties:

  • Lead diagnostics on complex vehicle systems

  • Mentor junior staff and oversee training

  • Supervise shop operations and ensure quality control

  • Manage calibration and repairs for advanced safety systems (ADAS)

Salary Range: $65,000–$90,000+

3. HOW TO BECOME ONE

  • Education: Vocational school or community college with a certificate/associate’s program in Automotive Service Technology

  • Training: On-the-job training or manufacturer-sponsored programs

  • Certifications: Start with EPA 609 for HVAC; pursue ASE certifications for career progression

  • Soft Skills: Communication, attention to detail, dexterity, mechanical aptitude, customer service

4. SKILLS & TOOLS

Tools Used:

  • Pneumatic wrenches, diagnostic scanners, oscilloscopes

  • Alignment racks, lifts, multimeters, and torque wrenches

Systems Knowledge:

  • Engine performance, electrical systems, steering/suspension

  • Electronic control systems, hybrid and EV components

Tech Proficiency:

  • Onboard Diagnostic Systems (OBD-II)

  • ADAS Calibration Tools

5. WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Full-time work in garages or service shops

  • May include evening/weekend hours

  • Potential exposure to chemicals, grease, and physical strain

6. JOB OUTLOOK

  • Growth supported by aging vehicles and demand for diagnostics and advanced system repairs

  • Shift toward EV maintenance may reduce mechanical repair demand but increase need for electrical knowledge

Openings Expected Per Year (2023–2033): ~67,800

7. RELATED OCCUPATIONS

Role: Diesel Technicians | Salary: $60,640 | Education Level: High School Diploma

Role: Aircraft & Avionics Technicians | Salary: $79,140 | Education Level: Postsecondary Non-Degree Award

Role: Auto Body & Glass Repairers | Salary: $50,680 | Education Level: High School Diploma

Role: Small Engine Mechanics | Salary: $48,240 | Education Level: High School Diploma

8. RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ADVANCEMENT

Certifying Organizations:

  • National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)

  • U.S. EPA (Section 609 Refrigerant Handling Certification)

Courses & Programs:

  • Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES)

  • OEM Programs (Ford ASSET, GM ASEP, Chrysler CAP)

  • Community College Programs in Auto Technology

Books:

  • Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach by Jack Erjavec

  • Engine Repair (A1) Study Guide by Motor Age Training

  • How Cars Work by Tom Newton

YouTube Channels:

  • South Main Auto Repair

  • ScannerDanner

  • EricTheCarGuy

  • ChrisFix

Communities:

  • Reddit r/MechanicAdvice, GarageJournal Forum

  • IATN (International Automotive Technicians Network)

9. REGIONAL DATA & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS

Keandra Wilson
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