The state of New York is home to many automotive technician jobs, both in New York City, as well as throughout the rest of the state. While you’ll earn the most as a mechanic in or very near NYC, the cost of living there is also much higher. The state’s average annual auto mechanic salary is slightly higher than the national average - $39,980 versus roughly $37,000. Of course, this is also just an average. There are many jobs that pay more than this, although you’ll need to make sure that you have the skills, knowledge, and experience hirers demand.
Get your education handled
The first step to enjoying a good salary as an automotive technician in New York is to complete a course at an auto mechanic school. These courses are generally short, most lasting about a year or so. Some are longer, and can provide additional training, and may be a better fit depending on your career goals. You can complete these courses with a number of schools, including national education companies like UTI, or community colleges, tech schools, and more. Some of your options in New York state include the following:
- Onondaga Community College
- Morrisville State College
- Hudson Valley Community College
- Fulton-Montgomery Community College](http://www.fmcc.edu/academics/academic_programs/automotive-services-%E2%80%93-0926/)
- SUNY Cobleskill
Once you’ve completed your course, you should be able to apply for an entry-level position with an auto repair shop or dealership in your area. However, in order to earn a higher auto mechanic salary, you must continue your education. The best way to do that is to pursue ASE certification.
The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence provides a very wide range of courses that allow you to specialize in particular areas, such as electronics or air conditioning, or pursue your master technician certification. Any ASE certification can give you a leg up on the competition and improve your earning capabilities, but master certified techs have the highest earning potential, and are in the highest demand by dealerships and repair shops.
Speaking of dealerships, if you decide that working with a branded dealer is for you, then consider dealership certification. These programs teach you the specifics about a particular automaker’s technology and how they design their vehicles. This allows you to further specialize in your training and earn a higher salary at your dealership of choice. It can also help you earn more outside of a dealership.
Supplement your income with work as a mobile mechanic
With an investment in education, your ASE certification and a plan as to where you’ll work, you can find success as an automotive technician.
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.
