Automotive Jobs in the United States

Automotive Jobs Overview

If you’re fascinated by cars and love working with your hands or figuring out how things work, a career in the automotive industry could be the perfect fit for you. Automotive jobs offer diverse opportunities, from high-tech diagnostics and design to hands-on mechanical repairs and sales.

Whether you’re interested in building the next generation of electric vehicles or keeping classic cars running smoothly, you can find numerous types of automotive jobs that match your skills and passions, such as:

• Automotive technician: Diagnoses and repairs car engines, transmissions, brakes, and other systems.
• Auto body technician: Specializes in repairing or replacing car bodies damaged by accidents or wear. This job combines craftsmanship with technical knowledge of materials and painting techniques.
• Service advisor: Acts as the bridge between customers and mechanics, explaining repair needs, scheduling service, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Automotive engineer: Designs and develops new car models and components. They work on everything from engines to safety systems and must balance performance, efficiency, and aesthetics.
• Auto sales consultant: Helps customers choose and buy the right vehicle, often requiring excellent interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of automotive features and options.
• Vehicle inspector: Performs detailed inspections of vehicles, assessing everything from emissions levels to safety features. This job is essential for meeting legal standards and maintaining safe roads.

Salaries for Automotive Jobs

Automotive careers are numerous and varied. Therefore, your pay depends on many factors, including your job type, experience, and location.

Here are some examples of average salary ranges for popular automotive jobs:

• autobody technician: $17.06 - $28.08 per hour
• automotive engineer: $79,711 - $152,632 per year
• automotive service manager: $39,710 - $101,636 per year

Find out what you can expect to make in your desired job and location by using Monster's Salary Tool. You'll also see a list of possible next steps to advance your career.

How to Find the Right Automotive Jobs for You

When choosing the right automotive job, asking yourself key questions can help you find a role that aligns with your goals, interests, and skill set. Here are some questions to guide your decision:

• Do I prefer hands-on work, like repairs, or am I more interested in design or sales?
• Are there technical skills that I'd like to improve, like electrical work or computer diagnostics?
• Would I prefer working in a hands-on repair shop, a fast-paced dealership, or an office environment focused on design or engineering?
• Am I looking for a role with strong job security, like a mechanic or inspector, where demand is steady?
• Would I be open to working evenings, weekends, or on-call if it would result in a higher income or more job opportunities?
• Am I comfortable with the physical demands of roles like mechanics or tire technicians, which may involve heavy lifting or long hours on my feet?

Review Descriptions for Automotive Jobs

By thoroughly reviewing automotive job descriptions, you can ensure your skills align with the job requirements. This process also allows you to identify areas for growth and avoid roles that might hinder your long-term career satisfaction.

Follow these steps to guide you:

• Match your skills and certifications. Identify if you meet the essential skills, hands-on experience, and certifications (like ASE) listed. Note any gaps where additional training is needed.
• Check daily tasks and physical demands. Ensure you're comfortable with any physical labor or conditions (e.g., lifting heavy parts, working under vehicles, or exposure to harsh chemicals).
• Assess your confidence with specialized tools. Specific tools and methods are often required for roles like automotive electricians or body repair technicians. If you lack experience with these, you may need training.
• Spot training opportunities. Prioritize roles that offer on-the-job training or certification assistance, as these can help you advance without personal expense.
• Watch for red flags. Be cautious of vague duties, no mention of pay or benefits, high flexibility demands, or words like "stressful environment," as these may signal issues with the role or company.

How to Apply to Automotive Jobs

Following specific instructions and tailoring your approach can help you stand out and increase your chances of landing an interview. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your automotive job application as effective as possible:

Update Your Resume for Automotive Jobs

Begin by carefully reviewing the job posting and noting any specific keywords under the qualifications or skills sections. Words like “diagnostics,” “ASE certification,” “brake repair,” or “customer service” are often crucial.

Integrating these terms into your resume—naturally and where relevant—demonstrates that you have the right qualifications. It also increases the likelihood your resume will pass automated applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Next, make your technical skills and certifications prominent. Qualifications like ASE, EPA, or manufacturer-specific training (such as Ford or Honda) can be strong selling points for automotive roles. Highlight practical skills directly related to the role, such as “engine diagnostics,” “electrical systems repair,” or “tire maintenance.”

Your experience section should emphasize relevant achievements and hands-on skills. Rather than vague descriptions, use statements like, “Completed engine diagnostics and repair on 15 vehicles weekly, achieving a 98% customer satisfaction rate.” Quantifying your accomplishments provides measurable evidence of your capability and reliability, showing potential employers what you can deliver.

For more ideas, browse our library of sample resumes and templates. Or use Monster's Resume Writing Experts. We'll create a customized resume highlighting your unique selling points to help you land more interviews.

Add a Cover Letter for Automotive Jobs

A well-customized cover letter can demonstrate your fit and make a compelling case for moving to the next step in the hiring process. In the first paragraph, highlight why you’re drawn to the job and how your experience aligns with the company’s needs.

Reference keywords from the job description, such as “ASE-certified,” “diagnostics expertise,” or “customer service skills,” to reinforce that you meet key qualifications. For example, if the position emphasizes brake repair and diagnostics, mention your experience performing complex diagnostic tests or your success in troubleshooting brake systems.

Dedicate the following section to your most relevant skills and accomplishments, ideally by providing a concrete example. You might write, “At XYZ Auto Repair, I improved diagnostic accuracy by 20% through meticulous testing methods.” Specific achievements show the value you can bring. End by expressing enthusiasm for the role and how you’re looking forward to contributing to the team.

Submit Your Application

Create your free Monster profile and start applying for jobs in the automotive industry. With a Monster account, you can upload your resume and connect directly with recruiters actively seeking talent like yours.

But that’s not all—Monster’s job alert feature allows you to set up customized notifications based on your preferences, so you’re among the first to hear about new openings that match your skills and goals. You also gain access to exclusive career resources, from expert resume tips to interview advice and workplace trends.

Follow Up on Your Application

Following up on a job application is an important step to show your interest and enthusiasm for the position. Here’s a guide to help you follow up professionally:

• Give the hiring team time to review applications, typically one to two weeks after submitting your application. If they mentioned a specific response time, wait until that period has passed.
• If you haven’t already, look for the hiring manager’s name in the job posting or company website. If this isn’t available, contact the HR department or use a general contact email, but try to find a direct contact when possible.
• Address the person by name, reference the position you applied for, and express your continued interest.
• After sending your follow-up, give it some time. If you don’t hear back from them after a week, you might consider a final polite follow-up. However, avoid repeated inquiries to maintain a respectful approach.

Interviewing Tips for Automotive Jobs

Preparing for an automotive job interview involves more than brushing up on your technical skills. Follow these steps to help you walk into the interview confidently and prepared to make a great impression.

How to Prepare for Your Interview

Begin by researching the company’s services, specialties, and values—whether they focus on hybrid vehicles, performance tuning, or customer service. Familiarity with their work allows you to tailor your answers and convey a specific interest in their goals.

Some interviews may involve hands-on testing or troubleshooting scenarios. So, be ready to demonstrate your thought process in diagnosing and resolving issues.

Finally, prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, the team, or growth opportunities for the interviewer. This not only shows that you’ve done your homework but also helps you determine if the position aligns with your career goals.

Common Interview Questions

Here are some common interview questions you may encounter for an automotive job, along with tips on what interviewers typically look for in your responses:

• Can you walk me through your diagnostic process when a car has an unknown issue? This question evaluates your problem-solving and technical skills. Describe the steps you take to identify issues, such as checking codes, conducting visual inspections, or testing individual components.
• What experience do you have with specific automotive tools and technologies? Highlight your familiarity with diagnostic equipment, repair tools, and relevant software systems. Mention any specialized training or certifications related to these tools.
• How do you handle a situation when a customer disagrees with your repair recommendation? Employers look for strong customer service and communication skills. Share an example where you explained complex repairs simply and remained patient and empathetic
• How do you stay updated with new automotive technologies and repair techniques? Automotive technology evolves rapidly, so employers value candidates committed to continuous learning. Mention any industry publications, courses, or certifications you pursue to stay current.

How to Follow Up After Your Interview

Following up after a job interview is essential to leave a positive, lasting impression. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Express gratitude for the opportunity, mention something specific you discussed to personalize it and reaffirm your interest in the role.
• Use this follow-up to subtly remind them of your qualifications. Briefly mention any strengths you discussed during the interview that align with the job requirements, showing that you’re a strong fit for the role.
• If it wasn’t covered in the interview, politely inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.
• If you don’t receive a response right away, wait a week or so before following up again.

What to Do When You Get an Offer

Receiving a job offer for an automotive position is an exciting moment, but it’s essential to approach it thoughtfully. First, express gratitude to the employer, showing appreciation for the offer. It’s okay to ask for a few days to review the details, even if you’re confident about accepting.

Next, carefully review the offer letter and any accompanying documents. Pay attention to salary, benefits, work hours, and other key terms.

If there are aspects of the offer you’d like clarified or adjusted, such as salary, work hours, or growth opportunities, prepare to negotiate. Be respectful and specific about what you’re seeking and focus on how these changes would help you contribute effectively to the team.

Once you’re ready to accept, send a formal acceptance email. Reiterate your excitement about joining the company and confirm any agreed-upon terms, such as your start date.

Automotive Jobs: Career Paths

Choosing a career path in the automotive field can be rewarding and diverse. Here’s a guide to help you select the right path:

• Begin by assessing what you enjoy most about the automotive world. Do you prefer working directly with vehicles, like a mechanic, or are you more drawn to design, technology, or customer service?
• Different automotive roles require varying skill sets. If you have strong technical abilities, a role as an automotive technician, electrician, or diesel mechanic might be a good fit. If you excel in customer interaction, consider roles like service advisor or auto sales consultant, where communication skills are essential.
• Some automotive roles offer a clear path for advancement. For instance, a technician could progress to a lead mechanic or shop manager. Consider whether the role you’re interested in aligns with your career growth goals.
• Look into current and future trends in the automotive field, such as the rise of electric vehicles and autonomous technology. Roles in these areas may have high demand and growth potential.

Depending on your skills, interests and goals, you may be interested in these options:

• quality assurance manager
• automotive designer
• fleet manager

Automotive Jobs: Similar Occupations

Interested in this industry but want to explore related fields? Click on these popular roles:

• diesel mechanic jobs
• marine technician jobs
• industrial maintenance mechanic jobs