Top 8 Highest Paying Jobs in the Auto Repair Industry

By Tristan Corrin
| July 10, 2023
| Business Advice, Tips

Are you interested in finding out how you can make more money in your career as an auto mechanic? You came to the right place!

In this blog post, we will explore specialized roles in the auto repair space and the salary upside for each position.

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Highest paying jobs in the automotive repair industry

While the auto repair industry pay scales can vary, certain fields pay considerably higher! Let’s explore the highest-paying jobs in the auto repair industry.

1. Mechanical engineers

Mechanical engineers earn an average annual salary of $82,949 in the United States, according to Indeed. That lofty pay total makes plenty of sense when considering the technical skills required in this role.

Working on the development of mechanical and thermal devices, mechanical engineers specialize in advanced system development propelled by engines and other power sources.

Sounds complicated? It certainly is! The mechanical engineer role will require an advanced engineering degree and background. This role makes plenty of sense as a natural career progression for auto repair techs with the right education and skills.

Pros: One of the highest-paying fields

Cons: Requires diligent work, technical ability, and multiple steps in career progression

2. Maintenance managers

A maintenance manager makes, on average, $83,108 per year, according to Indeed. They oversee a crew of maintenance workers. This position will still work on vehicle diagnostics and repairs, but managers take on other big-picture responsibilities. Examples include configuring the budget for a shop and empowering their team with the necessary equipment and shop management software.

After obtaining an automotive mechanic degree and significant work experience, many maintenance managers received promotions after beginning their careers as lower-level repair workers. They can earn more money than the typical mechanic with this expertise.

Pros: Great opportunity to manage a team and get work done your way

Cons: Requires considerable experience in a fast-paced environment

3. Maintenance workers

A maintenance worker’s annual salary in the United States is $70,334, according to Indeed. They complete professional repairs in a range of disciplines, including but not limited to auto repair.

Schools, hospitals, and retail establishments commonly hire maintenance personnel. They fix any appliances that may malfunction during regular business hours.

Because they may need to fix various equipment and their subsequent parts,maintenance workers frequently have backgrounds in electronic wiring, plumbing, and construction. These specialists make more money than the typical technician since they have a wide range of knowledge.

Pros: One of the highest-paying fields

Cons: Requires specialized training and advanced certifications. Not exclusive to general auto repair

4. Mechanical designers

Mechanical designers make an average annual salary of $70,987 across the country, according to Indeed. They are professionals who work with the engineering and production teams to create goods that meet customer requirements. Mechanical engineers have the opportunity to work in a variety of fields, including auto repair.

Pros: Exciting work with a good payoff

Cons: Requires a background in engineering to master the field. Not exclusive to general auto repair

5. Heavy-equipment mobile mechanics

Mobile heavy-equipment mechanics make an average yearly wage of $52,910, according to USA Wage. But salary upside exists, as the highest earners in this profession can make an annual salary up to $80,000.

Working in the railway, construction, and diesel engine repair industries is necessary for this role. These mechanics operate in rail yards and on building sites. They manage inspections, maintain large trucks, and fix different cars and farm equipment, including excavators and backhoes.

Pros: One of the highest-paying fields

Cons: Requires special training and skills with heavy-equipment. Not exclusive to general auto repair

6. Diesel mechanics

Diesel engine maintenance and repair fall under the purview of diesel mechanics. They work on everything from cars to trucks, buses, and construction machinery.

A diesel mechanic’s salary can range widely based on experience and other factors. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported a median annual wage of approximately $54,000 for this role. But the more specialized and experienced you are, the more money you’ll make.

Pros: Great earning potential

Cons: Requires specific know-how and training in diesel mechanics

7. Fleet mechanics

A fleet mechanic focuses on the effectiveness and safety of vehicles used in various commercial activities and services. The engines are subjected to routine maintenance by fleet mechanics, who also upgrade the system and fix any broken parts or defects.

To reduce delays in operations and potential traffic dangers, a fleet mechanic coordinates repairs of vehicles with their fleet supervisor. The salary for this position averages out at around $50,000 per year, according to Zippia.

Pros: Good learning opportunity and exposure to varying kinds of commercial vehicles

Cons: Requires specific training and regular upkeep

8. Automotive and motorcycle mechanics

Automotive mechanics make around $47,000 annually, according to Zippia. Motorcycle mechanics average out at $39,807 per year, according to Comparably.y.

Pros: Readily available jobs that are usually high in demand

Cons: Salaries are considerably less but offer potential for growth

Opportunities in the auto repair industry

One of the best things about choosing to work in the auto repair industry is the growth potential! Once you have the necessary training and certifications, you are qualified to work in any of the below-mentioned industries:

Dealerships
General repair shops
Independent repair shops
Specialty shops
Franchises
Tire shops
Rental agencies
Racing teams and race shops

To start your journey, there are only a few milestones you need to get under your belt, such as:

Once you’re in the field, numerous factors can influence your salary. Factors include years of experience, industry demand, and employer requirements.

The rewards of working as an automotive technician

1. Upward mobility

A tenured career as an automotive technician can open up opportunities to increased pay and career advancement. As vehicles become more complex, the specialized skills required to work on them will create significant salary upside across the industry.

2. Variety of work

As an auto mechanic, you’ll have to deal with many problems on the go. However, if your passion for cars is too much to ignore, this will be a welcome aspect of the job! Imagine never getting bored on the job since you love what you do and always have growth opportunities.

3. Customer relationships

Working in the auto repair industry allows mechanics to work on a variety of vehicles, which only helps increase their experience and also brings them face-to-face with many customers. It’s a fulfilling feeling to build these relationships and earn a customer’s trust through reliable work on their vehicle.

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Closing thoughts

Working in the auto repair industry is not only rewarding, but a potentially lucrative venture if you’re on the right path. Finding the right specialization and completing the necessary certifications and training can open many doors for you as an auto repair worker!

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