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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!
Article Table of Contents
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:
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:| 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, MA | 650 | $52,820 | $25.4 | $76,850 | $36,660 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 9,610 | $53,760 | $25.85 | $77,500 | $36,160 |
| Leominster-Gardner, MA | 300 | $48,680 | $23.41 | $69,030 | $35,500 |
| New Bedford, MA | 280 | $49,050 | $23.58 | $71,330 | $33,920 |
| Pittsfield, MA | 220 | $52,000 | $25 | $75,400 | $34,460 |
| Springfield, MA-CT | 1,470 | $51,670 | $24.84 | $76,790 | $34,320 |
| Worcester, MA-CT | 1,410 | $54,250 | $26.08 | $79,380 | $34,930 |
* 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.
Read the full guide: How to Become an Auto Mechanic
Mechanic Schools by City
Mechanic Schools by State