Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Louisiana

Louisiana is a great place to seek employment in the automotive industry, as it has numerous opportunities for lucrative careers. Popular positions include auto mechanics, service technicians and auto body/collision specialists – each of which offer many specialties with job functions ranging far and wide. If you’re considering a career in this field, now’s the perfect time!

Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Louisiana

In Louisiana, no license requirements apply for auto mechanics. It is, however, imperative to have a good understanding of the various systems at work in today’s vehicles. You should be able to analyze complex problems, use diagnostic software and have experience in computer-aided design. It is also important to stay up-to-date on new developments in the industry.

Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have obtained a postsecondary certificate or an associate’s degree from an accredited automotive technology program.

Auto mechanic training programs may cover the following topics:

  • Automatic transmissions
  • Suspension systems
  • Steering systems
  • Manual drive train
  • Air conditioning
  • Fuel systems
  • Brakes
  • Auto repair and maintenance
  • Vehicle computer systems

Auto Mechanic Schools in Louisiana

Students seeking to acquire an accredited automotive education have numerous options available for expanding their knowledge and expertise in the field. The schools below provide both qualified courses and certificates of completion, making them a great choice for aspiring mechanics.

  • Southwest Louisiana Technical Community College. SOWELA, located in Lake Charles, offers Associate of Science degrees in Automotive Technology and Automotive Collision Repair. The program provides comprehensive instruction in the areas of automotive technology fundamentals, diagnostic methods, automotive operations, and collision repair techniques.
  • South Louisiana Community College. SLCC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology. This program offers students a range of courses, such as Automotive Technology Basics, Brakes and Electronics, Transmission & Transaxle Systems and Manual Drives, Engine Performance Enhancement, and Steering & Suspension Maintenance.

ASE Certifications

Achieving a certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an invaluable asset to automotive repair professionals. With one comprehensive exam, applicants can showcase their proficiency and expertise in this field. Gaining ASE recognition means people have exceeded expectations when it comes to demonstrating that they are qualified specialists within the industry. By earning passing grades on exams or taking part in recertification programs, individuals receive confirmation of excellence with ASE accreditation.

With over 40 ASE certification exams to choose from, such as:

  • Parts specialist certification tests
  • 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
  • School bus certification tests
  • Transit bus certification tests
  • Alternate fuels certification test

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Over the next decade, Louisiana is anticipating a growth in employment for auto mechanics. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 3% decrease in this field from 2020-2030.

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021 automotive service technicians in Louisiana earned an average salary of $46,250 per year. Bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists made an average $48,210 per year while auto body and related repairers averaged $47,590 per year. Auto glass installers also brought in an annual mean salary of $36,220.

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Louisiana by Region

RegionTotal EmployedMean Hourly WageMean Annual Salary
Alexandria, LA300$20,04$41,680
Baton Rouge, LA1,580$23,32$48,510
Hammond, LA220$21,46$44,630
Houma-Thibodaux, LA330$21,47$44,650
Lafayette, LA860$21,89$45,520
Lake Charles, LA360$22,34$46,470
Monroe, LA340$20,80$43,260
New Orleans-Metairie, LA1,690$23,96$49,830
Shreveport-Bossier City, LA830$22,38$46,550

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Louisiana

Mechanics in Louisiana are expected to be well-versed in the fundamentals of automotive technology and possess an understanding of modern diagnostic methods. A number of locations provide internship opportunities for aspiring automotive technicians, allowing them to gain hands-on experience that can help bolster job prospects. Master auto mechanic certifications require a minimum of two years of work experience. Depending on the certification, some may need to be renewed every four or five years.

In conclusion, a career in automotive technology can be both rewarding and challenging. With the need for qualified technicians growing, individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications will have many opportunities available to them.

Sources:

  1. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
  2. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm