If you’re looking for a reliable job in the automotive industry, consider becoming an automotive technician. At Pennco Tech, we provide automotive career training in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including an automotive technology program that can prepare you for a career as an automotive technician. Here, we discuss average automotive technician salary information so you can get an idea of what they earn.

What Is an Automotive Technician?

An automotive technician, also called a service technician, is a worker who inspects, repairs, and maintains automobiles. They are like mechanics who perform hands-on work on cars. Automotive technicians perform a variety of duties in garages or repair shops, including:

• Identifying problems using computerized diagnostic equipment and software
• Test-driving vehicles to determine any issues
• Performing routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid level checks
• Repairing and replacing parts like sensors and electrical systems
• Ordering replacement parts
• Interacting with customers before and after service, including giving estimates
• Educating customers on problems, repairs, maintenance, etc.

As the auto industry evolves, many automotive technicians also perform repairs and maintenance on electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles (AVs).

Automotive Technician Salary Range

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $47,770 in May 2023. For technicians who are paid hourly, the average hourly rate for auto techs is $25.35 per hour in New Jersey and $23.70 in Pennsylvania, according to Indeed. Some technicians earn more, while some earn less since salaries can depend on factors like experience, training level, responsibilities, additional certifications, and location. Some shops and garages also offer overtime or commissions for work completed.

Technicians who want to boost their earning potential can do so in a few ways:

• Completing the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) test to get certified
• Gaining experience in other shops or from a training program
• Specializing in an in-demand area, like electric or autonomous vehicles
• Keeping up with continuing education to hone your skills

Automotive Technician Job Outlook and Mobility

Working as an automotive technician can provide a solid job outlook and opportunities for mobility. The BLS estimates that employment of automotive service technicians is projected to grow 3 percent annually from now to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations. There are about 67,800 expected job openings projected each year, on average, over the decade. Automotive technicians will continue to be in demand over the coming years as vehicles and the automotive industry evolve since trained people will be needed to repair and maintain these cars and their new technologies.

Working as an automotive technician can also offer opportunities for mobility since you can start at an entry-level position and move up to higher positions with experience. Automotive technicians can also be certified or specialize in certain areas that can help them advance in their careers.

Automotive Technology Program at Pennco Tech

If you’re looking for a reputable place to complete a program that will prepare you for a career as an automotive technician, trust Pennco Tech, where we’ve been training tomorrow’s workforce for over 50 years. Our automotive technology program features a well-rounded curriculum with hands-on training that prepares students to be successful in their careers. Our program teaches students lessons like:

• Identifying and repairing mechanical problems
• Using computerized diagnostic tools and test equipment
• Repairing electrical systems
• Working on electric and hybrid vehicles

We encourage students in our program to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) test to get certified as Automotive Service Excellence Technicians, which can help increase their salary and employment opportunities. Any student who elects to take this test while still in school, and passes, Pennco will even pay for it!

Why Choose Pennco Tech for Automotive Technology?

Since 1973, Pennco Tech has been providing career-focused education and training at our campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ. Our mission is to promote educational excellence by providing students with the hands-on training and tools that will help make them resourceful and productive members of the workforce. Along with our quality career training, Pennco Tech offers several other benefits to our students, including:

• Day and evening class times for full- and part-time schedule options
• Dedicated instructors who are passionate about student success
• Financial aid opportunities (available for qualified students)
• Career Services department that can assist with resumes, interview prep, and more

These are just some of the benefits of attending a Pennco Tech training program. To learn more, give us a call or consult our Answer Center.

Boost Your Salary Potential by Enrolling in Our Automotive Technology Program

Enrolling in the automotive technology training program at Pennco Tech can help you prepare for a successful career in the auto industry while giving you the potential for a higher salary. With two locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and flexible class schedules, we make it easy to access career training near you. For more information about admissions or enrollment, contact us today.