Have you always had a passion for vehicles? Do you like the idea of working with your hands? Have you been looking at automotive technician jobs in Utah and wishing that you were qualified? If so, it might be time to look a little deeper at becoming an automotive mechanic. Of course, before you get to a deep down the rabbit hole, you will want to have a better idea of how much a mechanic can make in Utah. It is important to keep in mind that the amount of money a person can make as a mechanic will vary based on their location in the country, as well as a number of other factors such as the certifications they have under their belt.
In the United States, the average salary for somebody who works as a mechanic is between $31,000 per year and $41,000 per year. Keep in mind that this is the average salary, and some mechanics can make a substantial amount more. In the state of Utah, mechanics make a bit more than they do in many other states of the country. The annual mean wage for mechanics in the state is $40,430 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some of the mechanics in the state and make upwards of $63,500 per year.
Getting training for automotive technician jobs
Of course, before you can get a job in the field, you need to have some training so you know what you’re doing. You can find college programs, as well as vocational schools and specialty schools in the state and in other states where you might want to travel to train. There are a number of auto mechanic programs in Utah. Of course, some may want to visit locations outside of the state to train. One of the most popular schools is UTI, the Universal Technical Institute. They offer a 51-week course that provides students with training for everything they need to get started in the field. They will learn the basic engine systems, the braking systems, computerized controls, and much more.
Places to train in Utah include the following:
- College of Eastern Utah Price
- Davis Applied Technology College
- Mountain Land Applied Technology College
- Utah Valley University
- Weber State University
Getting certified for increased earning potential
In addition to the basic training, you might want to look into getting ASE certification, or Automotive Service Excellence certification. The National Institute for automotive service excellence has certification in nine different areas including brakes, automatic transmission and transaxle, engine repair, suspension and steering, engine performance, heating and air-conditioning, light vehicle diesel engines, electrical and electronic systems, and manual drivetrain and axles. Those who have passed their certification for all of those areas can become ASE Master Technicians.
Getting certification and advanced training can provide some great benefits. First, it makes you more attractive to employers who are looking for mechanics to add to the roster. Second, it can increase your earning potential by a substantial amount.
Work with YourMechanic in Utah
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.
