Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Arizona
If you’re passionate about hands-on work and helping people, a career as an automotive mechanic or technician in Arizona could be the perfect fit for you. While employers usually prefer that job candidates have post-secondary education or training, this isn’t always necessary. So don’t let lack of experience hold you back.
Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Arizona
If you’re passionate about hands-on work and helping people, a career as an automotive mechanic or technician in Arizona could be the perfect fit for you. While employers usually prefer that job candidates have post-secondary education or training, this isn’t always necessary. So don’t let lack of experience hold you back.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Arizona
In Arizona, auto mechanics do not need to obtain a professional license. However, employers often prefer to hire technicians who have obtained an associate degree in automotive technology from a technical college or vocational school. Additionally, these educational programs usually require a few months of practical experience at an auto repair shop or dealership.
Those who are interested in automotive technology program, can expect to learn about some of the following topics:
- Computer control systems
- Ignition systems
- Manual transmissions
- Brake systems and brake repair
- Engine performance
- Manual drive train
- Industrial safety
- Automotive repair
- Air conditioning
- Automotive systems
- Engine repair
- Emission systems
Auto Mechanic Schools in Arizona
For Arizona high schoolers or recent graduates seeking to begin their postsecondary education, there are numerous automotive schools and community colleges available for those who wish to start a career in the auto mechanic profession. If your interested in enrolling in an auto mechanic education program, consider one of the following options:
- East Valley Institute of Technology. At East Valley in Mesa, you can find a comprehensive certificate program geared towards collision repair. This course is endorsed by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and provides students with essential skills to enter into body work, painting or repair occupations within one to two years of completion. Once enrolled in this unique program, you’ll be exposed to hands-on experience opportunities while gaining valuable insight on current industry trends through a variety of courses.
- Universal Technical Institute. With state-of-the-art campuses in Avondale and Phoenix, this school offers a comprehensive training program that can earn students an associate’s degree within two years. Including automotive mechanics, diesel mechanics (Avondale campus only) and even motorcycle repair programs (available at the Phoenix campus), UTI is renowned for its manufacturer specific courses such as Ford FACT, GM ASEP, Volvo SAFE & Daimler Trucks North America Programs.
Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Contact the financial office at the institution you are interested in for more information.
ASE Certification
To be ASE Certified is a highly sought-after distinction in the automotive industry. To achieve it, one must successfully pass an examination that pertains to their field of competency and sustain their certification every five years either by recertifying or taking the exam again.
With over 40 Automotive service excellence certification exams, you have numerous options to choose from. Certification examinations include:
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Auto maintenance and light repair certification test
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Over the next decade, Arizona is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 14% increase in this field from 2020-2030.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Arizona earned an average salary of $44,950 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists earned $48,480 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $47,980 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual salary of $29,970.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Arizona by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flagstaff, AZ | 350 | $22,90 | $47,620 |
| Lake Havasu City-Kingman, AZ | 540 | $21,23 | $44,150 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ | 10,990 390 | $23,07 | $47,980 |
| Prescott, AZ | 490 | $22,69 | $47,190 |
| Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ | 240 | $22,39 | $46,560 |
| Tucson, AZ | 2,110 | $21,26 | $44,230 |
| Yuma, AZ | 390 | $20,65 | $42,960 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Arizona
Auto mechanics in Arizona are able to take advantage of the state’s many high-tech shops, auto part stores and other local businesses. Arizona automotive technicians also benefit from the state’s unique mixture of urban and rural communities, allowing them to use their skills for a variety of specialty repairs or services.
Overall, the job outlook for auto mechanics in Arizona is very good and with the right education and experience, you can find a position as an automotive technician that pays well and provides job security.
Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm