Automobile Service Technicians

Salary ranges of automobile service technicians vary depending on the level of experience, type of shop the technician works in, and geographic location. Generally, technicians who work in small-town, family-owned gas stations earn less than those who work at dealerships and franchises in metropolitan areas.

Automobile service technicians had median annual salaries of $47,770 ($22.96 an hour) in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest paid 10 percent made less than $30,600 ($14.71 an hour), and the highest paid 10 percent made more than $77,630 ($37.32 an hour). Fifty percent of automobile service technicians made between $36,910 ($17.74 an hour) and $62,310 ($29.96 an hour).

Since most technicians are paid on an hourly basis and frequently work overtime, their salaries can vary significantly. In many repair shops and dealerships, technicians can earn higher incomes by working on commission. Master technicians who work on commission can earn more than $100,000 annually. Employers often guarantee a minimum level of pay in addition to commissions.

Benefit packages vary from business to business. Most technicians receive health insurance and paid vacation days. Additional benefits may include dental, life, and disability insurance and a pension plan. Employers usually pay for a technician's work clothes and may pay a percentage on hand tools purchased. An increasing number of employers pay for all or most of an employee's certification training, if he or she passes the test. A technician's salary can increase through yearly bonuses or profit sharing if the business does well.