Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Memphis

If you are eager to dive into something new and put in the effort, why not become a mechanic in Memphis? While there is no formal educational requirement for this job, it’s more advantageous if potential employees have completed some type of advanced education program. That being said, those who decide to learn on the job will gain career stability as well as make a great income.

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Memphis

Auto mechanics do not need to apply for a professional license in this city. However, since this is a relatively skilled profession, employers may expect potential employees to demonstrate specialized knowledge in different areas of automotive repair and maintenance.

Automotive service technology programs can be a great way to gain relevant skills and experience. These programs usually cover topics such as:

  • Electrical systems
  • Air conditioning
  • Steering systems
  • Brakes and Suspension
  • Engine repair and maintenance
  • Computer diagnostics
  • Vehicle inspection

Auto Mechanic Schools in Memphis

Many local colleges and technical schools offer automotive technology programs in Memphis. Some of the most popular options are:

  • Southwest Tennessee Community College. Offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Automotive Service Technology. This course can be completed in 2 years.
  • Moore College of Technology. Moore Tech’s Automotive Service Technology program is a two-year curriculum enabling students to acquire all the necessary skills for employment as technicians at any GMADA member new car dealership. Not only will they receive industry-leading training and knowledge, but they’ll get in line with today’s state of the art technology while gaining an Associate Degree.
  • Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Located in Memphis, this college offers a Certificate or Diploma program in Automotive Service Technology. The hands-on curriculum here will cover various automotive systems such as brakes and suspension, electrical systems, engine repair and maintenance, computer diagnostics, air conditioning, steering systems and vehicle inspection. This program is also NATEF-accredited.

ASE Certification

Automotive repair technicians can significantly increase their value and credibility in the field by obtaining an ASE certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. With just one exam, these professionals demonstrate that they have a proven knowledge of their trade.

There are over 40 ASE certification exams, some of which include:

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

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Memphis is expected to increase by 4% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Memphis earned an average annual wage of $46,640 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $51,270. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $37,200 and $48,040 respectively.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Memphis

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Memphis, TN-MS-AR3,250$22,88$46,640

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Memphis

Working as an auto mechanic in Memphis can be a rewarding experience. With the right training and certification, these professionals can gain career stability along with making a great income. Whether it’s fixing cars, buses or trucks, automotive service technicians are essential for keeping vehicles running safely and efficiently.

Sources:

  • Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, accessed January 24, 2022 http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm