Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Phoenix

Do you thrive in a hands-on setting and enjoy interacting with customers? If so, becoming an automotive mechanic or technician may be the perfect profession for you! In Phoenix, employers typically prefer applicants who have some post-secondary education or training although it is not always required. Pursue your passion today and become one of the many successful mechanics in this area!

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Phoenix

In Phoenix, auto mechanics do not need to obtain a professional license.  However, employers and the state of Arizona do require technicians to have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Additionally, technicians may need to obtain Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification in order to work for some auto service centers or dealerships.

To become an automotive technician in Phoenix, you’ll need to complete training in various areas of auto repair, including brakes, engines, electrical systems, and emissions. You can receive this training from a trade school or community college that specializes in automotive technology.

Those interested in enrolling in an automotive technology program can expect to learn about some of the following topics on the various automotive systems.

  • Engine repair
  • Brake systems
  • engine performance
  • Electronic systems
  • Air conditioning systems
  • Diesel engines
  • Automotive repair
  • Manual drive trains
  • Automatic and manual transmissions

Auto Mechanic Schools in Phoenix

There are various choices for those who are interested in enrolling in an automotive service technology program in Phoenix. Some of the most popular auto mechanic schools in Phoenix are:

  • Universal Technical Institute: This school has campuses in Avondale and Phoenix. It offers a training program in automotive mechanics, diesel mechanics and, in Phoenix only, motorcycle mechanics and repair. At UTI, students can look forward to specialized programs such as the BMW Motorrad program that allows them to become Level 1 Certified BMW Motorcycle Technicians. Moreover, there are also the Ford FACT, GM ASEP, Volvo SAFE and Daimler Trucks North America Programs conducted at its Avondale Campus.
  • Mesa Community College. MCC offers certificates of completion and associate degrees for their automotive technology program. Students learn about engine repair, brakes, steering and suspension systems, engines performance and diagnosis, basic electrical components and systems, and more.
  • Arizona Automotive Institute. The Automotive and Diesel/Heavy Trucks programs at the AAI, located in Glendale, provide career-focused education with a hands-on approach. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges guaranteeing its quality. Furthermore, to ensure student success after graduation, the institution offers job placement assistance for their alumni.

ASE Certification

Prove your expertise and skill in auto repair by earning certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)! Qualified applicants must demonstrate their understanding of the subject through taking an ASE exam. To keep up with this status, individuals can take extra exams every five years or become re-certified via special programs.

There are over 40 ASE certification tests available. Below are some of the more notable ASE exams.

  • Truck equipment certification tests
  • Light repair certification test
  • School bus certification tests
  • Transit bus certification tests
  • Engine machinist certification tests
  • Alternate fuels certification test
  • Parts specialist certification tests
  • Damage analysis and estimating certification test
  • Collision repair and refinish certification tests
  • Light truck certification tests

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Phoenix is expected to grow by 14% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Phoenix earned an average annual wage of $46,910 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $48,650. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $29,970 and $48,040 respectively.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Phoenix

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ 10,990
390
$23,07$47,980

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Phoenix

Automotive vehicles will always be a necessity and those looking to pursue their career in Phoenix as an auto mechanic have a great opportunity ahead. With the growing population, there is increased demand for qualified technicians and mechanics in the area. It’s important to look into all of your options when it comes to schools, certifications and job opportunities – but once you do, you can look forward to a rewarding and exciting career in the automotive industry.

Sources:

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm