How to Become an Automotive Service Technician
Diagnose and repair increasingly computerized vehicles, from engines to EV systems. It typically requires a postsecondary certificate, with a median salary of $50,620 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$50,620/yr
Job growth
3%
Openings / yr
70,000
Majors that lead here
Common majors include Automotive Technology.
Key skills
- Vehicle Diagnostics
- Engine Repair
- Electrical Systems
- Tool Proficiency
- Customer Communication
Helpful certifications
- ASE certifications
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Electrical Engineering Technician$78,190 median
- Mechanical Engineering Technician$74,510 median
- Civil Engineering Technician$64,950 median
- Wind Turbine Technician$64,120 median
- Plumber$63,800 median
- Electrician$63,190 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Automotive Service Technician make?
The median pay for an Automotive Service Technician is $50,620 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an Automotive Service Technician?
The usual entry point is a postsecondary certificate. Common majors are Automotive Technology.
Is Automotive Service Technician a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about 3% over the decade, with roughly 70,000 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an Automotive Service Technician use most?
Common skills for this role are Vehicle Diagnostics, Engine Repair, Electrical Systems, Tool Proficiency, and Customer Communication.
Planning to become a Automotive Service Technician?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.