How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Massachusetts

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How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Massachusetts

Auto mechanics are trained in many different aspects of car repair and maintenance.

Usually, these professionals like cars as well as working using their hands.

If you want to know how to become an auto mechanic in Massachusetts, this article is for you!

Auto Mechanic Training in Massachusetts

Most auto mechanics employers require their employees to have a high school diploma or GED as well as some training in the field.

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Yet, many people interested in becoming auto mechanics choose to enroll in educational programs that last for up to 2 years.

This way, they can earn a certificate or even an associate degree in automotive technology, while also attending hands-0n practice classes.

All graduates are qualified to hold entry-level positions as auto mechanics.

The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) developed the set criteria for what the courses must look like.

Therefore, the institutions offering programs in automotive technology need approval from NATEF.

These are some of the colleges in Massachusetts offering such programs:

  • Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
  • Massachusetts Bay Community College
  • Massasoit Community College
  • Quinsigamond Community College

Earning an ASE Certification

Most auto mechanics in Massachusetts earn an ASE certification because they want to, and not because they must.

However, this credential does help with getting paid better and having more career options.

These are some of the ASE certifications available:

  • Repair technician
  • Service consultant
  • Collision damage estimator
  • Parts specialist

Those interested in becoming certified by ASE should know that:

  • They need a minimum of 2 years experience, on average
  • They need to pass an exam that can only be taken in person
  • Once certified, they will have to re-take the exam every 5 years

You can take the ASE certification exam if you register for it and pay the associated fee.

You might have to also show proof of the minimum required accumulated experience as an auto mechanic.

Auto mechanics rarely become master auto mechanics in this state.

This is because the interested candidates have to pass a series of 8 tests that ASE already decided on.

Here are some of the series you can consider taking to become a master auto mechanic:

  • Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification Test (G1)
  • Automobile & Light Truck Certification Tests (A Series)
  • Collision Repair & Refinish Certification Tests (B Series)
  • Damage Analysis & Estimating Certification Test (B6)
  • Automobile Service Consultant Certification Test (C1)
  • Truck Equipment Certification Tests (E Series)
  • Alternate Fuels Certification Test (F1)
  • Transit Bus Certification Tests (H Series)

Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification

It is very common for auto mechanics to have to repair the air conditioning of a vehicle (MVAC).

The main problem here is that they’ll have to handle a regulated and hazardous substance.

Nobody can handle that refrigerant without the proper certification.

For this purpose, it’s best for all auto mechanics to obtain the 609-refrigerant certificate.

ASE offers a special course for this credential.

The best part is that the coursework can be found online.

You’ll also have to pass a test that can also be found online.

Better yet, this certification doesn’t need to be renewed like the others.

Auto Mechanic Schools in Massachusetts

School Name Address
MTTI 1241 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771
MassBay Community College Automotive Center 250 Eliot St, Ashland, MA 01721
MWCC Automotive Technology Center 42 Linus Allain Ave, Gardner, MA 01440
Porter and Chester Institute 220 Brooks St, Worcester, MA 01606
Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School 250 Foundry St, South Easton, MA 02375
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (BFIT) 41 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116
Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School 1050 Westminster St, Fitchburg, MA 01420
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Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Massachusetts

Here are some of the places where you can get hired as an auto mechanic after you graduate:

  • Dealerships
  • Tire and parts shops
  • Repair shops
  • Gas stations
  • Local governments

You’ll be expected o know how to complete these duties:

  • Oil changes and tire rotation
  • Brake repair and fluid level checks
  • Ignition system checks
  • Exhaust and muffler repair
  • Catalytic converter replacement
  • Replace spark plugs, fuel sensors
  • Alternator and battery replacement
  • Conduct system tests
  • Transmission replacements
  • Air conditioner repair
  • Engine rebuilds

Do know that there are a few job titles for this occupation:

  • Diesel specialist
  • Bus and truck mechanic
  • Automotive body repair worker
  • Auto glass installer/repairer

It is normal for newbies to earn less than their colleagues with more experience.

If you want a higher salary from the start, seeking employment in areas with higher average salaries is what you should do.

Annual Salary Range:
$33K
$43K
$56K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
Location Avg. Annual Salary
Boston $45,200
Worcester $42,243
Springfield $41,621
Cambridge $45,200
Lowell $43,727
Brockton $43,447
New Bedford $42,283
Quincy $45,200
Lynn $45,200
Fall River $42,283

Regional Salary in Massachusetts

Region Employed Avg. Annual Salary Avg. Hourly Pay Top 10% Annual Salary Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Barnstable Town, MA620$57,010$27.41$79,480$37,740
Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH10,060$56,360$27.1$79,960$36,920
Leominster-Gardner, MA310$51,650$24.83$76,020$35,420
New Bedford, MA260$53,140$25.55$75,290$35,660
Pittsfield, MA220$53,060$25.51$75,080$33,280
Springfield, MA-CT1,470$53,360$25.65$77,600$34,920
Worcester, MA-CT1,420$55,080$26.48$77,860$36,190
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, OCC Code 49-3023, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Massachusetts

If you’re one of those who want to work with a certain car manufacturer, you should consider getting a manufacturer certification.

Generally, this certificate is issued when the individual has a good grasp of how to work with a variety of car brands and models.

It is this diploma that greatly increases your chances of getting hired at a dealership.

USA Mechanic Schools by City


USA Mechanic Schools by State


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