Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in New Jersey
Most employers in New Jersey prefer that automotive workers have some type of post-secondary training, whether it be an industry specialized certification or degree. However, at minimum, a high school diploma is required for entry-level positions.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in New Jersey
Mechanic license requirements do not apply to general auto mechanics in New Jersey. However, any specialized services such as emissions repair or advanced diagnostics may require state certification.
Auto mechanics are required to have a valid driver’s license and must be able to pass a background check. Employers also prefer that automotive technicians in New Jersey have some form of higher education and formal training, although it is not mandatory for entry-level positions.
Auto Mechanic Schools in New Jersey
Though New Jersey has many available automotive training programs, some stand out above the rest in popularity. Those interested in attending an auto mechanic school or enrolling in an automotive technology program should consider one of the following options:
- Sussex County Community College: Located in Newton, NJ, offers coursework that can lead to an Automotive Service Technology certificate or an Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Service Technology. The program takes two years to complete.
- Camden Community College: Located in Camden, NJ, offers programs that lead to an Automotive General Technician certificate, an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology (Apprentice) and an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology (GM ASEP option).
- Mercer County Community College: Located in West Windsor, NJ, offers a two-year program in Applied Science in Automotive Technology that earns students an associate’s degree.
ASE Certification
Although not required, holding an automotive service excellence certification will give you a leg up when applying for mechanic positions. You can become certified by passing specific tests from the ASE Certification Program and either having two years of experience or a mix of education and experience. The credential expires after five years but can be renewed quickly and easily.
There are a variety of ASE certification exams, with over 40 options to choose from. Some of the more popular choices are:
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Auto maintenance and light repair certification test
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Light truck certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Engine Machinist certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
Career Outlook and Salary Information
Over the next decade, New Jersey is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 6% increase in this field from 2020-2030.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in New Jersey earned an average salary of $47,940 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel technicians made an average $59,770 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $47,530 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual mean salary of $37,920.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in New Jersey by Region
Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|
Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | 380 | $23,85 | $49,600 |
Ocean City, NJ | 160 | $24,33 | $50,600 |
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 11,950 | $24.27 | $50,490 |
Trenton, NJ | 650 | $26,61 | $55,340 |
Vineland-Bridgeton, NJ | 240 | $23,01 | $47,880 |
A Career Working as an Auto Mechanic in New Jersey
Becoming an auto mechanic in New Jersey can be a rewarding career path, especially for those dedicated to the automotive industry. With the right combination of training and experience, you can find meaningful work helping customers keep their cars running safely and efficiently. And with a growing job market projected over the next decade, it’s a great time to get started as auto mechanics in New Jersey are in high demand.
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, OOH, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES New Jersey, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nj.htm
- Projections Central, Texas, projectionscentral.com
- IBIS World, Auto Mechanics in the US Industry Report, http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/default.aspx?indid=1689
- Wall Street Journal, Auto Sales, http://online.wsj.com/mdc/public/page/2_3022-autosales.html
- State of New Jersey, Motor Vehicle Commission, http://www.state.nj.us/mvcbiz/BusinessServices/AutoBodyRepair.htm