What is the Job Outlook for an Automotive Technician Career?

<p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), automotive service technicians and mechanics held an estimated 756,600 jobs in 2019 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). Most of these professionals worked in maintenance and repair shops and automotive dealerships. Others worked in gas stations, automotive parts stores and local government. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> Professional Certification </td><td> Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exam required for work with air conditioning refrigerants; Master Automobile Technician certification (requires experience and testing on eight automotive systems)</td></tr> <tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Troubleshooting, dexterity and a steady hand, mechanical skills with parts and systems, troubleshooting</td></tr> <tr><td> Work Environment </td><td> Most work in good lighting and ventilation; some discomfort possible due to grease and tight working spaces; injury rate and lifting are concerns (though industry is not considered dangerous)</td></tr> <tr><td> Similar Occupations </td><td> Diesel mechanic, heavy vehicle service technician, small engine mechanic, automotive body/glass repairer</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---JobOutlook">Job Outlook</h3> <p>Demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow about as fast as the average among all occupations over the 2021-2031 decade, according to the BLS. The number of jobs is expected to have little or no change over that period, which will result in losing an estimated 10,600 jobs. Automotive dealerships and independent automotive repair facilities will create the most job opportunities. </p> <p>The need for technicians will also increase with the number of vehicles on the road. Growth in the driving age population and multi-car families will also increase the need for more technicians to perform tasks, such as oil changes and brake pad replacements. In addition, more repairs and maintenance will be needed as vehicles are lasting longer. </p> <h3 id="section---ImproveYourProspects">Improve Your Prospects</h3> <p>According to the BLS, you can expect good job prospects if you have the proper education and skills to work as an automotive technician. Therefore, formal training can help you stand out to employers, and the BLS notes that experience with computer systems and hybrid fuel systems can also improve your prospects. You can expect a lot of competition if you don't have formal training. </p> <h3 id="section---SalaryInformation">Salary Information</h3> <p>Many experienced technicians that work for automobile dealerships work on commission related to labor cost. A minimum weekly salary is often guaranteed by the employer. The BLS reports that the median hourly salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $22.54 in May 2021, which resulted in a median annual salary of $46,880. The lowest paid workers earned $13.95 or less per hour whereas the highest paid earned $36.11 or more per hour. </p> <p>According to the BLS, automotive repair and maintenance companies paid an average hourly wage of $21.50 in May 2021. Automobile Dealers paid a higher average hourly wage of $24.78, while Automotive Parts, Accessories, and Tire Stores paid a lower hourly average wage of $19.83.</p>