Thinking about taking advantage of the many automotive technician jobs in Massachusetts? It can be a very good career path. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanics in the state earn an average of $45,940, which is higher than the national average by several thousand dollars. However, it is important to understand that there are many different factors that will impact your earnings here, including your education, where you work, your certification and training level, and more.
Start on the right foot with education and certification
As with any other career path, you have the best chance of earning a high salary as a mechanic and landing better paying mechanic jobs with the right training and education. You’ll find a number of auto mechanic school options throughout the state, including community colleges, vocational schools, and tech schools. Your options include the following:
- The Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
- Porter and Chester Institute
- Mass Bay Community College
- Universal Technical Institute of Boston
- MTTI Education for Employment
Many of the course offered are only six months long, giving you the ability to learn the basics about the automotive technician trade, earn your certification and then take advantage of entry-level positions. However, if you wish to move up to higher paying automotive tech jobs, you’ll need to earn ASE certifications. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is responsible for certifying mechanics who complete their extensive testing. There are many different tests available, allowing you to earn your certification in a number of specialties. Many hirers are willing to pay more for a mechanic who specializes in a particular area, as well as master ASE certified technicians.
If you work with a branded dealership, you also have the option of completing dealership certification. These courses are generally sponsored by the automaker, and are designed to teach you about that manufacturer’s systems and designs. Many dealerships now mandate that their technicians complete dealer certification courses regularly. The good news is that you can take this knowledge with you to other dealerships, private shops and other mechanic jobs.
Supplement your income with work as a mobile mechanic
With that being said, mechanics with ASE certification and advanced training will almost always earn more than those without any formal education, so it is always best to start with the basics and then build your career.
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.
