Are you considering an automotive technician job in Nebraska? If you love automotive technology and are mechanically inclined, this can be a very good career path. Across the country, the average salary for an automotive technician is a little over $37,000. In Nebraska, the average mechanic salary is $38,140, which is slightly more than the national average. That’s good news, but there’s more: this is only the median earning level. There are jobs out there that pay significantly more if you have the right knowledge, training, and experience. Of course, you’ll need to make sure that you’re a good fit for these employers.
Get initial training first
Before you become an automotive technician and start applying for jobs, you need to get your education. Yes, there is a great deal you can learn through informal training, but a formal education has become the norm today. Thankfully, you can earn your certification in six months to a year through a number of different schools in Nebraska, including the following:
- Southeast Community College – Milford Campus
- Metropolitan Community College
- Northeast Community College
- Central Community College
- Mid-Plains Community College
When you have completed your course, you will have the basic knowledge and skills needed to take entry-level automotive technician jobs. It is worth noting two things here. First, these are lower paying jobs. Second, you should not consider your education over, yet. If you want to earn a higher auto mechanic salary, you’ll need to go for ASE certification.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence provides a very broad range of certification courses, from air conditioning to engine technology and everything in between. They also provide non-mechanic courses for automotive related positions that do not involve “turning wrenches.” You can earn several individual certifications, and then earn your master ASE certification, which will give you access to higher paying jobs in Nebraska, as well as across the US.
If you are interested in working with a particular brand, then you might consider accepting an auto technician job at a dealership and then becoming dealership certified. These certifications focus on specific automaker technology, rather than general automotive technology. This allows you to earn more at the dealership where you currently work, but also with other dealerships offering the same brand. You will also find it valuable if you decide to start your own shop or repair service.
Supplement your income with work as a mobile mechanic
With education and training, a plan for the future and a little strategy, you can earn a good living in this industry.
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.
