Starting Salary
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, Median hourly earnings of automotive service technicians and mechanics, including commission, were $14.71 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $10.61 and $19.84. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $8.14, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $25.21. Employees working in automobile dealerships were among the highest paid group of automotive service technicians. Many experienced technicians employed by automobile dealers and independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor cost charged to the customer. Under this method, weekly earnings depend on the amount of work completed. Employers frequently guarantee commissioned mechanics and technicians a minimum weekly salary.
Starting salary is dependent upon a number of factors. Educational background and certification or specialized school as well as number of years of experience influence the rate of pay.
Some automotive service technicians are members of labor unions such as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America; the Sheet Metal Workers' International Association; and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 Edition, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos181.htm (visited March 12, 2004).Benefits
Most employers provide training at all stages of an employee's career. Employees can expect to receive health insurance and retirement planning. Employees at a dealership often receive multiple benefits that can include reimbursement or tuition support for training and certification. Automobile dealerships also provide a comfortable work atmosphere with a reasonable work schedule.
