Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
O*NET 49-3023.00 · SOC 49-3023
Automotive Service Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $51k a year with +5% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 66,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Diagnose engine problems using electronic diagnostic scanners
- →Replace worn brake pads, rotors, and calipers
- →Change engine oil and replace oil filters
- →Inspect and replace timing belts on schedule
- →Test repaired vehicles on road to verify fixes
Education & How to Get In
Most Automotive Service Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Automotive Service Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Automotive Service Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Automotive Service Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics is projected to grow 5% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Automotive Service Technician make?
The median Automotive Service Technician earns $51k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Automotive Service Technician jobs?
Our model puts Automotive Service Technician at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Automotive Service Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 66,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Automotive Service Technician?
Most Automotive Service Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Automotive Service Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Automotive Service Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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