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How to hire an auto garage mechanic

Auto garage mechanic hiring summary. Here are some key points about hiring auto garage mechanics in the United States:

  • In the United States, the median cost per hire an auto garage mechanic is $1,633.
  • It takes between 36 and 42 days to fill the average role in the US.
  • Human Resources use 15% of their expenses on recruitment on average.
  • On average, it takes around 12 weeks for a new auto garage mechanic to become settled and show total productivity levels at work.

How to hire an auto garage mechanic, step by step

To hire an auto garage mechanic, you need to identify the specific skills and experience you want in a candidate, allocate a budget for the position, and advertise the job opening to attract potential candidates. To hire an auto garage mechanic, you should follow these steps:

Here's a step-by-step auto garage mechanic hiring guide:

  • Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
  • Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
  • Step 3: Make a budget
  • Step 4: Write an auto garage mechanic job description
  • Step 5: Post your job
  • Step 6: Interview candidates
  • Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new auto garage mechanic
  • Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist
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  1. Identify your hiring needs

    Before you post your auto garage mechanic job, you should take the time to determine what type of worker your business needs. While certain jobs definitely require a full-time employee, it's sometimes better to find an auto garage mechanic for hire on a part-time basis or as a contractor.

    Determine employee vs contractor status
    Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

    An auto garage mechanic's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, auto garage mechanics from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

    The following list breaks down different types of auto garage mechanics and their corresponding salaries.

    Type of Auto Garage MechanicDescriptionHourly rate
    Auto Garage MechanicAutomotive service technicians and mechanics, often called service technicians or service techs, inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks.$11-34
    Instrument Technician ApprenticeAn instrument technician apprentice is responsible for performing installation and repairs on various electrical equipment and instruments such as control panels and motors, all while under the supervision and directives of a senior or master technician. Typically, their tasks revolve around conducting regular maintenance checks, coordinating with other technicians, organizing supplies, operating electrical tools, and understanding various electronic principles... Show more$12-27
    TechnicianTechnicians are skilled professionals who primarily work with technology in different industries. They are knowledgeable about the technical aspects of the various items they work with... Show more$11-27
  2. Create an ideal candidate profile

    Common skills:
    • CDL
    • Hand Tools
    • Hoists
    • Diesel Engines
    • Diesel Trucks
    • Electrical Systems
    • Blowers
    • Construction Equipment
    • ABS
    • Departmental Expenditures
    • General Maintenance
    • Golf Carts
    • Tune UPS
    Responsibilities:
    • Diagnose, repair and replace hydraulic controls, engine components, loader attachments, brakes and bearings using cranes and hoists.
    • Document repairs, modifications and inspections in accordance with FAA requirements on both paper and in an automate maintenance information database.
    • Install, repair, and service many kinds of garage doors and door openers.
  3. Make a budget

    Including a salary range in your auto garage mechanic job description helps attract top candidates to the position. An auto garage mechanic salary can be affected by several factors, such as geography, experience, seniority, certifications, and the prestige of the hiring company.

    For example, the average salary for an auto garage mechanic in North Carolina may be lower than in California, and an entry-level auto garage mechanic usually earns less than a senior-level auto garage mechanic. Additionally, an auto garage mechanic with certifications may command a higher salary, and working for a well-known company or start-up may also impact an employee's pay.

    Average auto garage mechanic salary

    $42,369yearly

    $20.37 hourly rate

    Entry-level auto garage mechanic salary
    $24,000 yearly salary
    Updated January 14, 2026

    Average auto garage mechanic salary by state

    RankStateAvg. salaryHourly rate
    1Texas$38,910$19
    2California$37,705$18
    3Iowa$28,695$14
    4New Hampshire$27,530$13
    5Oklahoma$27,465$13
    6Indiana$27,460$13
    7Ohio$25,530$12
    8Nebraska$24,885$12
    9Wisconsin$24,036$12
    10Massachusetts$23,520$11
    11North Carolina$22,530$11
    12Minnesota$22,008$11

    Average auto garage mechanic salary by company

    RankCompanyAverage salaryHourly rateJob openings
    1WEC Energy Group$80,826$38.86
    2Xcel Energy$67,359$32.385
    3MidAmerican Energy$63,606$30.58
    4American Water$59,205$28.461
    5FirstEnergy$49,743$23.915
    6Boston College$48,611$23.372
    7Cleveland Metropolitan School District$46,510$22.36
    8ECMD$42,356$20.36
    9Kroger$41,963$20.1712
    10ABM Industries$40,020$19.2410
    11LAZ Parking$39,831$19.151
    12Pike$39,746$19.114
    13NC.gov$37,191$17.8812
    14Mountaire Farms$35,821$17.2215
    15Ben E. Keith$33,773$16.241
    16Pilgrim's$26,142$12.5720
    17Schwebel's Bread$25,118$12.082
    18Bimbo Bakeries$24,348$11.71
  4. Writing an auto garage mechanic job description

    An auto garage mechanic job description should include a summary of the role, required skills, and a list of responsibilities. It's also good to include a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager. Below, you can find an example of an auto garage mechanic job description:

    Auto garage mechanic job description example

    Labor Grade : 9

    Shift : 1st Shift, must be able to swing as needed


    Note: The listed duties are only illustrative and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed by this job class. The omission of specific statements does not preclude management from assigning specific duties not listed if such duties are a logical assignment to the position.


    Nature of Work:

    Performs skilled mechanical work analyzing and diagnosing problems on all kinds of motor trucks, cars, and equipment; inspecting, replacing and/or repairing defective parts, and performing preventative maintenance on City automobiles, transit vehicles, tractors, mowers, trucks, street sweepers, heavy equipment, diesel and electronic ignitions, fire pumps and equipment, change emergency lights. Also, police cars and/or motorcycles, and small engines; assigning, overseeing work and training of lower level mechanics. Employees assigned to this classification perform a variety of tasks requiring specialized knowledge and skills. Work is performed under general supervision and is reviewed while in progress and upon completion for accuracy and completeness.


    Examples of Work Performed :

    Maintain records of vehicle repairs, parts used and labor expended; orders or obtains parts and supplies as needed.

    Operates power tools and equipment to perform repairs such as pneumatic wrenches, machine tools (lathes, grinding machines), welding and flame cutting equipment, jacks, cranes, hoists, diagnostic tools, etc.

    Repairs and/or replaces defective parts; repairs consist of, but are not limited to, engine overhaul, repair/replacement of brakes, transmissions, clutches, motor parts, electrical/electronic systems, hydraulic systems, gearboxes, belts, gaskets, etc.

    Inspect and repair, replaces and/or adjusts headlights, windshield wipers, tires, turn signals, vehicle fluids, blades, etc.

    Operates City vehicle to pick up parts and supplies from vendors, to road test vehicles repaired, or to make service calls.

    Perform other related duties assigned.


    Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

    Knowledge of standard principles, practices, methods, and tools of the mechanic trade.

    Knowledge of occupational safety rules and regulations, health hazards and ability to ensure adherence.

    Knowledge in and or experience with Diesel engine and heavy equipment repair and maintenance.

    Skill in the correct, safe, and accurate use of tools and equipment relevant to the mechanic trade.

    Ability to analyze and diagnose problems, and perform required corrections.

    Ability to maintain records, estimate costs, and order necessary parts and supplies.

    Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, plans, schematics, drawings, blueprints, and bulletins.

    Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees.

    Ability to speak clearly and concisely using a two-way radio.

    Ability to obtain at least one (1) ASE Certification within 90 days of appointment to this position.

    Ability to obtain a welding certificate.



    Licenses and Certificates:

    Must possess or have the ability to obtain an Illinois Class B Driver's License with airbrake, tanker, and passenger endorsements. Must have ASE certifications or equivalent, or must be able to acquire at least one within 90 days of hire. Must maintain ASE certifications. Must have a welding certificate, or have the ability to obtain one.


    Minimum Qualification Requirements :

    High school diploma or equivalent


    Unusual Physical :

    Must be physically able to work on vehicles, complete necessary paperwork and must wear safety orange or green when servicing vehicles in the field.

    Must have ability to stand for extended periods, work in awkward positions, confined areas, climb, bend, stoop, kneel, and push/pull/lift heavy parts (up to and including 50+ lbs) to perform repairs; exposed to chemicals, fumes, noise, and inclement weather.

  5. Post your job

    To find auto garage mechanics for your business, try out a few different recruiting strategies:

    • Consider internal talent. One of the most important talent pools for any company is its current employees.
    • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and your current work to ask if they know any auto garage mechanics they would recommend.
    • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit entry-level auto garage mechanics with the right educational background.
    • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter have more than 3.5 billion users, and they're a great place for company branding and reaching potential job candidates.
    Post your job online:
    • Post your auto garage mechanic job on Zippia to find and recruit auto garage mechanic candidates who meet your exact specifications.
    • Use field-specific websites.
    • Post a job on free websites.
  6. Interview candidates

    During your first interview to recruit auto garage mechanics, engage with candidates to learn about their interest in the role and experience in the field. During the following interview, you'll be able to go into more detail about the company, the position, and the responsibilities.

    Remember to include a few questions that allow candidates to expand on their strengths in their own words. Asking about their unique skills might reveal things you'd miss otherwise. At this point, good candidates can move on to the technical interview.

    The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

  7. Send a job offer and onboard your new auto garage mechanic

    Once you've found the auto garage mechanic candidate you'd like to hire, it's time to write an offer letter. This should include an explicit job offer that includes the salary and the details of any other perks. Qualified candidates might be looking at multiple positions, so your offer must be competitive if you like the candidate. Also, be prepared for a negotiation stage, as candidates may way want to tweak the details of your initial offer. Once you've settled on these details, you can draft a contract to formalize your agreement.

    It's equally important to follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that the position has been filled.

    After that, you can create an onboarding schedule for a new auto garage mechanic. Human Resources and the hiring manager should complete Employee Action Forms. Human Resources should also ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc., and that new employee files are created.

  8. Go through the hiring process checklist

    • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
    • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
    • Define job responsibilities and requirements
    • Establish budget and timeline
    • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
    • Write job description
    • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
    • Promote the job internally
    • Process applications through applicant tracking system
    • Review resumes and cover letters
    • Shortlist candidates for screening
    • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
    • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
    • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
    • Conduct background checks on top candidates
    • Check references of top candidates
    • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
    • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
    • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
    • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
    • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
    • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)
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How much does it cost to hire an auto garage mechanic?

Before you start to hire auto garage mechanics, it pays to consider both the one-off costs like recruitment, job promotion, and onboarding, as well as the ongoing costs of an employee's salary and benefits. While most companies that hire auto garage mechanics pay close attention to the initial cost of hiring, ongoing costs are much more significant in the long run.

You can expect to pay around $42,369 per year for an auto garage mechanic, as this is the median yearly salary nationally. This can vary depending on what state or city you're hiring in. If you're hiring for contract work or on a per-project basis, hourly rates for auto garage mechanics in the US typically range between $11 and $34 an hour.

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