Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Georgia
If you’re good with your hands and not afraid of a little hard work, automotive mechanics may be the field for you. In Georgia, most of the higher-paying auto technician jobs will require specialized training and certification. Getting this should give you an advantage and help you stay competitive in the job market.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Georgia
A license is not required in the state of Georgia to practice as an automotive technician. However, many employers prefer to hire certified auto mechanics who have shown a level of competency and knowledge in their field. This is usually accomplished by enrolling in an automotive technology training program.
The following topics may be covered by various automotive mechanic programs:
- Auto repair
- Engine performance
- Climate control
- Collision repair
- Automotive chassis
- Auto maintenance
- Brake systems
- steering
- Engine repair
- transmission systems
- fuel systems
Once you have completed a training program and obtained the appropriate certification, you are eligible to apply for an automotive technician job in Georgia. It is important to note that employers may require additional experience or a combination of schooling and on-the-job training.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Georgia
In addition to traditional automotive technology degree programs, many technical colleges and vocational schools in Georgia offer specialized options for those aspiring to become auto technicians. Many programs also include hands-on training in a shop setting with real vehicles.
The following schools offer auto mechanic training programs in Georgia:
- Coastal Pines Technical College. If you’re looking to enter the automotive repair field, this college offers diplomas and certifications in three of the most popular specialties: automotive technology, diesel equipment technology, and automotive collision repair.
- Chattahoochee Technical College. Offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program in Automotive Technology, as well as certificates and diplomas in alternative fuels technology and automotive service management.
ASE Certification
ASE certification is the most widely recognized industry standard for automotive technicians. ASE stands for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, which is a non-profit organization that tests and certifies technicians in various areas of auto repair and maintenance. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have ASE certification or are working towards getting certified.
There are more than 40 ASE certification exams available in various areas of automotive repair and maintenance. Some of these tests include:
- Light truck certification tests
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Transit bus certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
To become ASE certified, technicians must first pass each of the required tests for their desired certification. After passing all of the exams, continuing education credits must be earned every five years to maintain certification.
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
The job outlook for mechanics in Georgia is expected to continue growing over the coming years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment in this field will increase by 7% between 2020 and 2030.
Automotive service technicians in Georgia earned a mean annual salary of $43,750 as of May 2021. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists made an average of $47,310 per year. Auto body and related repairers earned $47,140 per year while auto glass installers earned $35,420 per year.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Georgia by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albany, GA | 380 | $21,12 | $43,930 |
| Athens-Clarke County, GA | 420 | $20,99 | $43,650 |
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 13,280 | $22,85 | $47,530 |
| Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC | 1,160 | $21,32 | $44,350 |
| Brunswick, GA | 230 | $25,16 | $52,340 |
| Columbus, GA-AL | 510 | $19,96 | $41,520 |
| Dalton, GA | 230 | $19,97 | $41,530 |
| Gainesville, GA | 380 | $22,10 | $45,970 |
| Hinesville, GA | 170 | $24,27 | $50,490 |
| Macon, GA | 510 | $21,16 | $44,020 |
| Rome, GA | 210 | $21,57 | $44,870 |
| Savannah, GA | 920 | $22,02 | $45,810 |
| Valdosta, GA | 290 | $19,99 | $41,570 |
| Warner Robins, GA | 370 | $20,57 | $42,780 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Georgia
Job openings in the automotive industry are available in many cities across the state, including Atlanta, Columbus, Augusta, and Macon. Depending on their experience and certifications, technicians may find employment opportunities at small independent shops or large car dealerships. Most employers of auto mechanics in Georgia offer competitive pay and benefits packages to attract skilled workers.
Without auto mechanics, many drivers in Georgia would be lost. These dedicated professionals work hard to ensure that everyone can get back on the road quickly and safely. With the right education and training, anyone can become a successful mechanic in Georgia.
Source:
- 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