Employment opportunities in the auto mechanic field are expected to grow faster than the average occupation over the next ten years.  New employment opportunities will continue to open in the field as technicians retire and need to be replaced. In addition, the need for qualified auto mechanics will continue to grow as the number of vehicles on the road increases. Therefore, employment opportunities for those that have completed postsecondary training are very good.

The median hourly wage for auto mechanics in May 2006 was $16.24.  Thos working in the local government sector earned $19.07 per hour during that same timeframe, while those working for automobile dealerships earned $18.85 per hour.  Those in the automotive repair and maintenance field earned $14.55, while those working in gas stations earned $14.51 and those working in automotive parts and accessories stores earned $14.38.