If you’re considering an automotive technician job in Florida, you will certainly want to learn more about how much you can expect to earn per year. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual auto mechanic salary in Florida is $38,690, which is slightly lower than the national average of roughly $40,000 pear year. With that being said, understand that this is only the average annual salary. There are quite a few different factors that go into what you’ll earn, and you can control quite a few of them.
Education and training is your first step
In order to start a career as a mechanic, you will first need to complete your initial auto mechanic training. You’ll find a number of community colleges, technical schools and trade schools in Florida offering this type of training, including:
- Fort Myers Technical College
- Erwin Technical College
- Pinellas Technical College
- Orange Technical College
- Mech Tech Institute
There are also national vocational technical schools like UTI that offer courses in automotive technology. Once you complete these basic courses, you’ll have the knowledge and education needed to enter the field as a tech. However, entry-level jobs pay less than those offered to mechanics with more experience and training.
Get your credentials
There are a couple of options available to increase your skills, knowledge and understanding of automotive technology. One of the most common ways to work yourself into a better paying automotive tech job is to complete ASE training. ASE-certified mechanics complete rigorous courses that teach them more than the basics, allowing them to command higher salaries wherever they work. ASE certification also fosters trust with consumers – customers will have more peace of mind when leaving their vehicle in your care if they know you’re an ASE-certified master technician.
Depending on your career goals, you may also want to go through dealership certification. These courses are only offered to mechanics working for branded dealerships, and they teach you about the specific technology used by that automaker. It has become common for most automakers to require mechanics working at branded dealerships to complete ongoing training on a regular basis and earn their dealer certification.
Supplement your income with work as a mobile mechanic
When everything is said and done, attending auto mechanic school and then getting into the industry can be very rewarding. With the right education and the right certification, you can enjoy a good annual salary, as well as significant job security.
While there are many career options for mechanics, one option you might consider is working with YourMechanic as a mobile mechanic. YourMechanic technicians earn up to $60 an hour and complete all work onsite at the car owner's location. As a mobile mechanic, you control your schedule, set your service area, and serve as your own boss. Learn more and apply.
