Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Nevada

If you have a deep interest in cars and are seeking to forge ahead with an automotive career in Nevada, then rest assured as there is a lucrative opportunity awaiting you. From automotive technicians, body repairers and glass installers/repairers to truck or diesel mechanics – the job choices are plentiful!

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Nevada

You do not need to get a professional license to work as an auto mechanic in this state. However, you must hold a high school diploma or equivalent as well as possess relevant skills and knowledge. Additionally, the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires all auto technicians to pass an emissions test in order to work on emission-related repairs.

Employers prefer to hire automotive mechanics and technicians who have completed a formal training program in automotive technology or have gained experience in the field. The following topics may be covered in an automotive technology program:

  • Automatic transmissions
  • Suspension systems
  • Steering systems
  • Fuel systems
  • Brakes
  • Automotive fuel
  • Engine repair
  • Engine performance
  • Oil changes
  • Air conditioning

Auto Mechanic Schools in Nevada

Nevada provides a wide array of colleges and universities that offer quality educational programs to gain an automotive technology degree or certificate, providing the perfect solution for those looking to further their careers in the automotive industry.

  • Western Nevada College – WNC Carson City’s Associate Degree in Automotive Mechanics program is a prestigious, ASE certified course that offers students the opportunity to develop diagnostic and repair skills necessary for working in an automotive service setting.
  • Truckee Meadows Community College – TMCC Reno’s Automotive Technology program is highly revered and provides students with the knowledge necessary to perform routine servicing, repair, inspection and maintenance of vehicles. This program is also accredited by NATEF
  • Advanced Training Institute – Within 14 months, ATI in Las Vegas promises to prepare students for a career in the automotive industry and a path towards ASE Certification. By enrolling in the Automotive Technology Associate Degree program, students will have a variety of career paths open to them. These include entry-level auto mechanics, automotive air conditioning repairers, brake repairers, front-end mechanics, transmission technicians and rebuilders or tune up technicians. With this degree program they can be sure that their skillsets are sought after by employers worldwide.

ASE Certifications

Achieving certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an invaluable asset to those in the automotive repair industry. With a simple passing grade of one exam or through participation in recertification programs, applicants can prove their capability and expertise in their field. Those who receive ASE certification have shown that they are knowledgeable professionals within this trade.

There are over 40 ASE certification exams available, some of which include:

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

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Over the next decade, Nevada is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 10% increase in this field from 2020-2030.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Nevada earned an average salary of $47,120 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists made an average $59,130 per year while auto body repairers averaged $47,800 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual mean salary of $38,720.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Nevada by Region

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Carson City, NV180$23,88$49,660
Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV3,200$23,43$48,740
Reno, NV980$24,44$50,840

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Nevada

Auto mechanics in Nevada should have a diverse set of skills in order to succeed. This includes knowledge of standard and modern vehicle technologies, the ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical issues and proficiency in record keeping and documentation.

In conclusion, working as an auto mechanic in Nevada can be a rewarding and challenging experience. With the right training and certification, those in this field can enjoy job stability, competitive salary potential, and an array of career paths to pursue.

Sources:

  • Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
  • Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm