Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Minnesota

If you’re skilled at working with your hands, have a passion for cars and trucks, and are motivated by helping people, then becoming an automotive service technician or diesel mechanic may be the perfect career opportunity for you! Minnesota offers various avenues to become a professional in this field such as apprenticing under an experienced master mechanic. Certificate or degree programs can also provide useful guidance on how to proceed with entry-level jobs after completion of training.

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Minnesota

No professional licensing or certification requirements apply for auto mechanics in Minnesota. However, employers may prefer job applicants to have a minimum of a high school diploma for entry-level positions. Employers also look for those who have successfully completed an accredited auto technician program or an automotive training program.

An automotive technician program may cover the following topics:

  • Electrical systems
  • Preventive maintenance of auto mobiles and light trucks
  • Engine performance
  • Emission systems
  • Manual drive train
  • Hands on car repair
  • Air conditioners
  • Fuel systems
  • Brakes
  • Steering

Auto Mechanic Schools in Minnesota

If you’re looking to pursue a career as an auto mechanic, Minnesota is the perfect place for you. With numerous educational degree and certificate programs designed especially for aspiring mechanics of any age – from adult students to high school graduates – available across the state, there’s something suitable out there for everyone! For ultimate peace of mind when selecting your program provider, make sure their accreditation comes through National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) or Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES).

Those who are interested in enrolling in an automotive service technology program should consider one of the following community and technical colleges:

  • Dakota County Technical College. Located in Rosemount, this college offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree in automotive technology, auto body collision technology, and heavy duty truck technology.
  • Hennepin Technical College. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, this college offers two year degree programs in automotive technology, auto body collision, medium/heavy truck technology, and Ford ASSET.

ASE Certifications

Attaining acknowledgment from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a groundbreaking achievement for automotive repair professionals. Through this one-of-a kind assessment, applicants can prove their capacity and expertise in the field. Earning ASE accreditation confirms that they possess proficiency within this area.

There are over 40 different specialties for those who are interested in taking an ASE Certification exam.

  • Damage analysis and estimating certification test
  • Collision repair and refinish certification tests
  • Truck equipment certification tests
  • Auto maintenance and light repair certification test
  • Engine machinist certification tests
  • Light truck certification tests
  • Parts specialist certification tests
  • School bus certification tests
  • Transit bus certification tests
  • Alternate fuels certification test

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Over the next decade, Minnesota is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 5% decrease in this field from 2020-2030.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Minnesota earned an average salary of $47,560 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists made an average $59,250 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $47,590 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual mean salary of $47,090.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Minnesota by Region

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Duluth, MN-WI710$23,43$48,740
Mankato-North Mankato, MN300$23,72$49,350
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI7,760$26,18$54,440
Rochester, MN540$23,20$48,260
St. Cloud, MN650$23,88$49,670

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Minnesota

Working in the automotive service industry in Minnesota is a rewarding experience that comes with many benefits. Mechanics enjoy competitive wages, and there are plenty of opportunity for advancement. The state also offers a number of professional and educational organizations dedicated to helping automotive mechanics develop their skills and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in auto repair technology.

Skilled professionals who become employed in the field of automotive services also have the chance to work with a wide variety of vehicles, from classic cars and muscle cars, to high-end luxury models. Because of this, working as an auto mechanic in Minnesota can be a great way for individuals to stay involved in their passion for automobiles while making a living and developing valuable skills.

Source:

Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm