Mechanic Jobs | Monster.com

Every car owner needs a reliable mechanic who can diagnose their car's problem and get them back on the road. In a world where computer work is becoming more common, mechanics work in a highly hands-on position. And the complexities of vehicles, especially as they become increasingly computerized, means that mechanic jobs are on a slower path to automation than many others.

As a mechanic, you'll be performing diagnostics tests, repairs, and general maintenance tasks on vehicles or machines. You might enjoy being a mechanic if you don't like sitting at a desk all day, enjoy working with your hands, and have a passion for cars and car maintenance.

The most common types of mechanics are:

Car mechanics, who repair and maintain cars. They typically work at dealers, in repair shops, or in parts shops.
Diesel mechanics, who specialize in diesel engines. They usually work on large and heavy vehicles, such as farm equipment, trucks, ships, and buses.
Airframe and powerplant mechanics (A&Ps), who are trained to work on aircraft.
Small engine mechanics, who work on smaller vehicles like boats, motorcycles, or outdoor power equipment.

You can expand your job search by looking for other maintenance jobs. For example, consider searching for:

Mechanic Training and Skills

Most employers will require potential mechanics to have a high school degree. Many also look for employees with vocational training, and some require a college degree. The more advanced the job is, the more likely it is that you'll need post-secondary education. For example, since diesel engines are more complex, diesel mechanics often have either a college degree (usually an associate degree) or vocational training, in addition to a certificate.

While not all states require certification to become a mechanic, many employers do. Some of the most common certifications are from:

The Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE): This organization offers certificates in specific areas, for example, brakes, engine performance, and electrical systems. Many jobs for auto and diesel mechanics require ASE certification.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): If you will repair AC systems, your employer might ask you to get a Clean Air Act certification, which certifies you to purchase, handle, and dispose of refrigerants.
Auto makers: You can get a certificate from a specific auto maker, especially if you want to work directly for them.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): to work as an A&P mechanic, you need a certificate from the FAA. The agency will require you to pass a written test and a practical test and complete 18 to 30 months of training.

To learn more about the career path to becoming an auto mechanic, you can read Monster's article on how to become a mechanic.

To be successful as a mechanic, you'll also need specialized technical skills, basic math skills, and an eye for detail to notice and solve mechanical issues. Learn more about what skills and credentials employers look for in Monster's sample of a mechanic job description.

Update Your Mechanic Resume

Before you apply to new jobs, you might want to update your resume to ensure it has all of your relevant skills, education, and qualifications. Not sure where to start? Monster can help you with that. Take a look at our mechanic sample resume and mechanic cover letter for some industry-specific tips for auto mechanics.

Interviewing for Mechanic Jobs

Before you're hired as a mechanic, you may have to face an interview. Some job interviews focus on general questions about your personality, strengths, and weaknesses. You should also expect questions that are more specific and technical. Be prepared to answer questions like:

What types of testing equipment you are familiar with?
What type of maintenance does a car need on a regular basis?
How often does a car need service?

For more tips on how to prepare, take a look at Monster's article on how to ace an auto job interview.

How Much Do Mechanic Jobs Pay?

Different types of mechanics make different salaries. For example, a small engine mechanic makes a median of $16.22 an hour, an auto mechanic makes a median of $19.89, and a diesel mechanic makes about $23.32 an hour. Check out Monster's Salary Tools to find out what people with your job title make in your location.

Ready to Find Mechanic Jobs? Monster Can Help

Search our job listings to find open mechanic positions in your area. Then, don't forget to create a Monster profile so you can connect with employers, get custom job alerts, upload your resume so recruiters can find you, and more.