What Do Auto Mechanics Make Per Year?

An auto mechanic can keep your car in top shape.

When your car develops problems, you take it to an auto mechanic who can diagnose the situation and repair whatever is wrong for a fee. Though that fee can cover parts, much of it goes to the mechanic's salary.

Definition

An auto mechanic inspects, maintains and repairs cars and light trucks, using diagnostic and service equipment at an auto shop.

Salary

An auto mechanic's salary typically depends on experience. According to PayScale.com, mechanics with one to four years of experience earn $22,316 to $40,180 annually as of January 2010. Those with five to nine years make $28,567 to $48,882, while mechanics with 10 to 19 years in the field are paid $33,320 to $59,924.

Employers

Salary also varies by employer type. Mechanics working for a franchise earn $33,136 to $60,632 per year, according to 2010 PayScale.com data. Those employed by state and local government make $28,966 to $50,089, while mechanics at a university or college are paid $24,250 to $66,000.

States

According to 2008 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) wage data, the top-paying states for this occupation are Alaska, with an annual mean wage of $49,230; Connecticut, at $42,780; Maryland, at $42,070; and California, at $41,900.

Outlook

Jobs in this field will grow slower than average from 2008 to 2018, predicts the BLS, with auto mechanics who complete postsecondary training programs having the best opportunities.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Auto Mechanics
• PayScale.com: Salary by Experience
• PayScale.com: Salary by Employer