Explore This Path

Auto Mechanic

💰 Earn $47K-$76K
📚 Vocational Training
⏱️ 12–24 Month Training
📈 4.2% Job Growth
  • Perfect for those who love solving mechanical puzzles and working with their hands.
  • Keep vehicles running smoothly, ensuring safety and reliability on the road.
  • Use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to bring cars back to peak performance.
Find Training
Auto Mechanic
What Auto Mechanics DoDiagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
  • Inspect vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made.
  • Test drive vehicles and test components and systems, using equipment such as infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges, and computerized diagnostic devices.
  • Test and adjust repaired systems to meet manufacturers' performance specifications.
  • Repair, reline, replace, and adjust brakes.
  • Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors.
Auto Mechanics Education, Salary, and Growth
Minimum EducationVocational Training
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time1 to 2 years
Job Openings70,000 Annually
Median Earnings
$63,370 in California
$49,670 Nationally

$0

$25K

$50K

$75K

$100K

$125K

$150K

$175K

$200K

$225K

$250K

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@salarytransparentstreet
@yaya_k20
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
  • Thinking and problem solving
  • Using data or completing tasks
  • Working with my hands
you value
  • Having support
  • Having freedom
  • Personal relationships
you are skilled in
  • Operation and Control
  • Operations Monitoring
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Repairing
Go Deeper: Auto Mechanics Explained
Auto Mechanic
Auto MechanicExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's Degree
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Vocational School
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Bachelor's Degree
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Apprenticeship
ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
Workforce Development Program
Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Fellowship or Service Program
Fellowship or Service ProgramA fellowship or service program typically provides individuals with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service or social impact work, while encouraging personal growth, developing leadership skills, and creating positive change in society.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ Finish in 1-3 years
Technology Bootcamp
Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in Less than a year
find training near you

Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

Enter your location to see training near you

What Is the Building & Distribution Industry?
Building & Distribution
Building & DistributionThe primary activities of this group involve constructing, installing, repairing, and maintaining physical infrastructure, producing goods and materials, and transporting people and products from one location to another.
What Are Similar Careers?
Valve Installer

Ensure safe operation by installing and maintaining valves and regulators.

💰 $95K Median Salary
📈 1% Job Growth
Truck Mechanic

Keep trucks and buses running smoothly by diagnosing and fixing engine issues.

💰 $70K Median Salary
📈 2% Job Growth
Electric Motor Repairer

Diagnose and repair electric motors to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

💰 $70K Median Salary
📈 3% Job Growth
Motorboat Mechanic

Ensure boat engines run smoothly by repairing and adjusting mechanical systems.

💰 $65K Median Salary
📈 6% Job Growth
Motorcycle Mechanic

Keep motorcycles running smoothly by diagnosing and repairing mechanical issues.

💰 $60K Median Salary
📈 5% Job Growth
Auto Electronic Equipment Installer

Install and repair vehicle electronics for enhanced communication and security.

💰 $55K Median Salary
📈 -14% Job Growth
Updated April 2026. Data sourced from O*NET and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Want to explore more possibilities?
Search more paths with altpath discover.discover more
Auto Mechanic | Explore this Career