How to become an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Texas
The auto mechanic field is especially large in Texas due to the state’s expansive size and many industries. In fact, Texas ranks as the second leading state for automotive jobs in America. Whether you’re interested in becoming an auto mechanic, service technician, diesel mechanic or automotive glass installer/repair worker, there are plenty of job openings available.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Texas
You do not need a license to work as an auto mechanic in Texas, however, most employers prefer to hire candidates who have taken some kind of formal training or auto mechanic program. Experience in the field will also give applicants an advantage when seeking employment.
Those looking to develop their skills by enrolling in an automotive technology program can expect to learn about some of the following topics:
- Suspension
- Steering
- Axles
- Brakes
- Computerized Systems
- Identify and solve complex problems
- Tune-ups and Maintenance
- Engine Repair
- Fuel System Diagnosis and Repair
- Electrical Components
- Exhaust System Diagnosis and Repair
- Air Conditioning Service/Repair
In addition, many automotive technology programs provide an internship or hands-on experience for their students to gain valuable knowledge of the industry.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Texas
There are more options for automotive technology programs in Texas than in other states. Many top institutions also grant degrees and offer the ability to gain manufacturer-specific certification. Some of the most popular automotive schools are listed below.
- Universal Technical Institute UTI’s Dallas/Ft. Worth area campus offers programs in auto and diesel technology, allowing students to receive comprehensive training courses that provide them with an understanding of the physical and electrical mechanics involved in today’s automobiles. UTI students are also presented with the opportunity to get real-world experience working on state-of-the industry vehicles and equipment, including heavy trucks and buses.
- Lincoln Tech offers three campuses in Texas, located in Grand Prairie, Houston and Irving. Their automotive technology program includes courses on engine diagnostics, automatic transmissions and manual drive trains. Students also have the opportunity to work on a variety of shop projects that require them to use specialized diagnosis tools and equipment.
ASE Certification
ASE certifies automobile technicians in Texas, as well as other states. To become ASE certified, applicants must meet certain qualifications and pass a series of tests. The exams cover topics such as brakes, steering/suspension, engine repair, electrical systems, heating/air conditioning and automatic transmissions. Applicants who successfully complete the required tests are rewarded with a certification from ASE, which opens up more opportunities for employment.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
Based on findings from the Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2021, annual salaries for auto glass workers were $37,920, and auto mechanics and service technicians earn an average salary of $46,680. Similarly, those in the field of auto body mechanics and related repairers make around $46,390 annually while truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists rake in $47,850 per year. Pay rates usually reflect an individual’s skillset. The more training and certifications one has under their belt typically translated to a higher income.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020 there were 189,960 employed auto mechanics and related workers in the United States. The leading occupations within this field were everyday auto mechanics and service technicians (61,380), diesel mechanics (26,250), and those working in auto body collision repair (11,410). Lastly, 1,700 jobs fell within the category of auto glass installers and repair workers.
Auto Mechanic Salaries by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abilene, TX | 400 | $22,78 | $47,390 |
| Amarillo, TX | 690 | $21,79 | $45,320 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | 3,720 | $26,03 | $54,140 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | 670 | $22,97 | $47,780 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | 500 | $21,26 | $44,210 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | 490 | $20,97 | $43,630 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | 370 | $24,11 | $50,160 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | 13,170 | $24,34 | $50,620 |
| El Paso, TX | 1,380 | $18,34 | $38,150 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 11,820 | $24,19 | $50,310 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | 670 | $22,77 | $47,360 |
| Laredo, TX | 460 | $19,01 | $39,530 |
| Longview, TX | 420 | $23,33 | $48,520 |
| Lubbock, TX | 650 | $21,39 | $44,480 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | 1,010 | $20,87 | $43,420 |
| Midland, TX | 360 | $24,36 | $50,660 |
| Odessa, TX | 420 | $24,78 | $51,540 |
| San Angelo, TX | 220 | $22,76 | $47,340 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | 4,590 | $22,72 | $47,250 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | 300 | $23,43 | $48,720 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | 300 | $21,26 | $44,220 |
| Tyler, TX | 540 | $23,92 | $49,750 |
| Victoria, TX | 210 | $23,17 | $48,190 |
| Waco, TX | 490 | $22,11 | $45,980 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | 310 | $21,86 | $45,460 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Texas
Texas offers an abundance of opportunities in the auto mechanic industry. The Lone Star State is home to many large cities and towns that house a multitude of automotive service companies such as lube shops and dealerships in need of qualified individuals. Furnishing oneself with the necessary skillset through a formal education program or on-the-job training will guarantee improved career prospects and higher wages. Furthermore, taking advantage of certifications and other industry credentials will help individuals stand out to employers. Texas is a great state for those looking to pursue a career in automotive mechanics or related fields. With its diverse job market, many doors are open to those willing to take the plunge and dedicate themselves to a fulfilling career in automotive technology.
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, 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
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES Texas, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_tx.htm
- Projections Central, Texas, projectionscentral.com