Does the idea of an automotive technician job in Alabama appeal to you? If so, you probably wonder about your potential earnings and what it will take to get the right training and skills. Of course, the main question is probably what your auto mechanic salary will be, and that is a valid concern. After all, earnings really vary from place to place. Currently, the median salary in the US ranges from $31k to over $41k, based on the state, the level of training the mechanic has, and if they are certified.
So, what does a mechanic in Alabama average each year? Currently, the median salary is $31K. The highest earners take in around $52k. These are not all light car and truck mechanics, though they do share something in common, and that is that their earnings are based on their level of knowledge and skill.
Training increases earning potential
So, where can someone in Alabama get the training it will take to boost their auto mechanic salary or increase their chances for higher earnings?
Currently, there are 21 locations for automobile technician training within the state of Alabama. They range from six-month programs at community colleges like Bevill State and Central Alabama, but there are also two-year degree programs in Bishop State, JF Drake State Technical, and more. Taking these programs will allow you to obtain certification in specific areas of auto repair or maintenance, and the more in-depth the training, the better your financial outcome.
Employers value this sort of education, knowledge and skill, and particularly the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certifications. These are nine specific areas for auto mechanic training, including brakes, engine repair, heating and air conditioning, manual drive train and axles, suspension, steering, electrical systems, engine performance, light vehicle diesel engines and automatic transmission. Get all of them and you are a Master Mechanic with the highest earning potential.
Of course, all training has to include a lot of hands-on experience. Even if you get invited or accepted into specialized programs from manufacturer's like Ford, you will have to do work in a dealership to complete the studies and certification.
Training in a technical school
Of course, you don't have to stay within Alabama to do your training, and there are many institutions offering automobile technician and mechanic training. Many vocational and trade schools have targeted classes, certain colleges are also an option, and formal mechanic's schools and tend to bring the best results. They provide auto mechanic training enabling you to get to work immediately, and combine classroom, online and hands-on work. A popular choice for many mechanics and technicians is UTI Universal Technical Institute. Offering a 51-week program that focuses on automotive technology training, this group also offers Manufacturer Specific Advanced Training. This allows you to get factory-authorized for leading manufacturers, creating a rare shot at specialization fright from the beginning of your auto mechanic career.
To earn the most as a mechanic in Alabama, obtain the training and certification, specializing if you can, and making the very most of auto mechanic training.
While there are many career options for mechanics, one option you might consider is working with YourMechanic as a mobile mechanic. YourMechanic technicians earn up to $60 an hour and complete all work onsite at the car owner's location. As a mobile mechanic, you control your schedule, set your service area, and serve as your own boss. Learn more and apply.
