If you’re interested in an automotive technician job in Colorado, it makes sense to learn more about how much they earn per year in the state. Nationally, mechanics earn a median income of just over $40,000 per year. However, that varies considerably from one state to another, and you’ll find that the situation in Colorado is very different. In fact, the average auto mechanic salary in Colorado is actually $43,860 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is higher than the national average by a good bit. There are also other factors that will affect how much you earn in automotive technician jobs in the state.
Your education and training play roles in earnings
While you will find that automotive technician jobs in Colorado pay more than the national average on their own, you need to ensure that you’re the best candidate for those jobs. It begins with your initial training. Most mechanics will start off with a short, six-month certification course at a community college or a tech school. There are quite a few different schools and training centers to choose from in the state, including the following:
- Aims Automotive
- Front Range Community College
- Lincoln College of Technology
- IntelliTec College Grand Junction
- Western Colorado Community College
Once you have earned your initial certification, you can begin working at one of the many automotive technician jobs in the state. However, this is only the beginning. You’ll need to improve your skills through hands-on application, but also through higher learning. There are quite a few different options for this. One is to pursue an ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification. ASE certification has been the “gold standard” for training in the industry for a long time, and becoming an ASE-certified master technician will get your foot in the door with many hirers.
In addition to pursuing your ASE certification, you should also consider becoming dealership certified. Each dealer brand (BMW, Honda, etc.) has their own in-house training program that trains you in the specifics of that automaker’s technology and models. This can allow you to further specialize and earn more. Generally, hirers are more willing to offer higher paying automotive technician jobs to those with in-depth training, specialization and certification.
Supplement your income with work as a mobile mechanic
With the right training and education, as well as the dedication needed to advance, you can earn a good annual salary with auto technician jobs in Colorado.
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.
