Automobile Mechanics
Wages & Outlook
Wages
Mechanics are paid using one of several options. Some are paid a "flat rate." This means they are paid for a set number of hours for a particular repair. For example, they might be given one hour of pay to complete an oil change. If mechanics take longer than an hour to complete the task, they are not paid extra. However, if they complete the job in less than an hour, they are still paid for a full hour of work. Other mechanics are paid a set hourly wage regardless of the type of repairs they do. A few are paid a flat rate plus a commission based on the labor cost charged to customers.
Wages vary depending on the employer and the area of the country. Wages also vary according to the level of skill and experience of the mechanic. Many master mechanics earn between $70,000 and $100,000 a year.
Benefits vary by employer. Many full-time auto mechanics receive benefits. These may include paid vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Those who are self-employed must provide their own insurance.
View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:
Employment
In Minnesota, about 14,265 automobile mechanics work in this large occupation.
About 18 percent of auto mechanics are self-employed.
Major employers:
- Auto repair shops
- Auto dealerships
- Auto supply stores
Outlook
As the population grows, so will the number of motor vehicles. All those new cars and trucks, as well as the old ones, will require maintenance and service. While maintenance can be put off for a short period, car owners are more likely to keep this up even when the economy is poor. This is because most people rely on their cars to get to work so owners need to make sure their cars keep running.
Most jobs for mechanics are at repair shops and auto dealerships. The number of jobs at these locations will continue to grow. Faster growth may occur at shops that specialize in oil changes, brake repair, and other minor repairs. The number of jobs for mechanics at gas stations will continue to decline.
| Employment | Employment Change | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| U S | 723,400 | 848,200 | 124,800 | 17.3% |
| Minnesota | 10,070 | 11,314 | 1,244 | 12.4% |
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Central Minnesota | 1,223 | 1,532 | 309 | 25.3% |
| Northeast Minnesota | 632 | 701 | 69 | 10.9% |
| Northwest Minnesota | 1,029 | 1,147 | 118 | 11.5% |
| Southeast Minnesota | 1,274 | 1,413 | 139 | 10.9% |
| Southwest Minnesota | 982 | 1,035 | 53 | 5.4% |
| Seven County Mpls-St Paul, MN | 4,996 | 5,605 | 609 | 12.2% |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
