Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Utah
If you’re good with your hands and have an aptitude for working with mechanical parts, consider a job in auto mechanics. Jobs in this field include not only mechanic positions but also opportunities as auto body repairers, glass installers, bus and truck service technicians, and diesel mechanics.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Utah
In Utah, you don’t need to have a professional license to work as an auto mechanic. However, all auto mechanics in Utah must have at least a high school diploma or GED. Furthermore, you should also possess strong problem solving and communication skills. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire applicants with experience working on cars.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Utah
There are a variety of educational opportunities in Utah. Those who wish to enroll in an automotive technology program, can consider one of the following options:
- Salt Lake Community College. This public college in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers multiple benefit-oriented programs for mechanics, including an Automotive Technician Associate Degree program and an Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing Certificate program. The college is NATEF-accredited.
- Weber state university. This large public university in Ogden, Utah offers an Automotive Technology Certificate program. This program includes instruction in engine performance and diagnosis, brakes, suspension, steering and alignment systems.
Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Contact the financial office at the institute you are interested in for more information.
ASE Certification
Many mechanics are not certified by the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), but many employers prefer applicants who have this credential. To become certified, you must pass the tests set by the ASE Certification Program and have experience in the field or a combination of education and experience.
There are over 40 ASE exams to choose from. Some of the more popular tests include:
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Light truck certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Engine Machinist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Auto maintenance and light repair certification test
Career Options and Salary Expectations
Over the next decade, Utah is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 19% increase in this field from 2020-2030.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Utah earned an average annual salary $46,640. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists made an average $49,240 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $46,950 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual mean salary of $38,630.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Utah by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logan, UT-ID | 310 | $40,850 | $40,850 |
| Ogden-Clearfield, UT | 1,710 | $49,570 | $49,570 |
| Provo-Orem, UT | 1,130 | $46,130 | $46,130 |
| Salt Lake City, UT | 490 | $45,190 | $45,190 |
| St. George, UT | 3,280 | $51,980 | $51,980 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Utah
Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the business for years, there are plenty of job opportunities for automotive technicians and mechanics in Utah. In addition to traditional dealerships, many independent shops also provide stability and good wages. Furthermore, many mechanics choose to specialize in a specific area like diesel engines, brakes and suspensions, or auto body repair.
It is important to note that even though you may not need a license to work as an auto mechanic in Utah, having the ASE Certification can help you stand out from the competition and increase your earning potential.