Becoming a Mechanic or Automotive Technician in Ohio

A career as an auto mechanic or diesel and truck mechanic is a great option for you if you are looking for a job that is hands-on, interesting and people-oriented. All you need to become a mechanic in Ohio is an educational program or work experience and training, or both.

The following topics may be covered in an automotive training program or mechanic school:

• Auto mechanics

• Electrical systems

• Tire maintenance and repair

• Air conditioning and heating systems

• EnginesTransmissions

• Brake systems

• Fuel injection systems

• Engine tune-ups

With these types of training you can learn to become a mechanic, get certified and earn a great income in a matter of just a few years. [En Español]

Job Outlook in Ohio for Automotive Service Technicians and Diesel Mechanics

The growth in careers for mechanics is fast, with new jobs being added at a rate of about six percent. Over the next several years there are expected to be thousands of open positions ready for qualified workers in Ohio and in other states.

Ohio is a major employer of mechanics, with over 28,000 working in the state in 2020 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). There were also 9,880 bus and truck mechanics employed in the state that year, in addition to 5,590 body and collision workers. The biggest metropolitan areas for employment of mechanics in Ohio are Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Toledo.

Salaries for Auto and Truck Mechanics in Ohio

This includes information for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers, Automotive Body and Related Repairers, and Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists. The salary data is categorized by percentile and region, highlighting significant variations based on experience and geographic location.

In Ohio, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics earn between $26,000 and $66,000 annually. Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers have salaries ranging from $24,000 to $62,000. Automotive Body and Related Repairers earn between $28,000 and $72,000, while Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Specialists earn between $30,000 and $76,000.

Salaries in Ohio by Occupation

Auto Mechanic Salaries in Ohio by Region

Auto Mechanic Schools in Ohio

Ohio is home to a number of post-secondary programs for learning the skills needed to become an auto or truck mechanic. These programs are usually certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF), so look for that information when choosing one. There are also secondary programs for high school students, and these are accredited by the Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES).

• Ohio Technical College. Cleveland has a lot of job opportunities for trained mechanics, so going to school there may be a smart choice. Ohio Tech offers several specialized programs for students interested in auto technology. These include auto diesel technology, collision repair and refinishing, classic car restoration, diesel equipment, motorcycle and power sports, rod and custom technology, and high performance and racing technology. There is also a general automotive technology program and the BMW STEP program. The latter trains students to become certified BMW technicians or MINI technicians.
• Sinclair Community College. Sinclair, which is located in Dayton, has several automotive technology programs, including a certificate and a degree program that gives students an overall education in auto tech. In addition to these generalized programs, Sinclair offers students the opportunity to train to become certified manufacturer technicians through programs with Honda PACT, GM ASEP and Mopar CAP.
• Stark State College. Stark’s campus is in North Canton, and it has strong programs in automotive technology. These include an associate degree, a comprehensive certificate and a one-year certificate in general automotive technology. Students at Stark can also train as manufacturer-specific mechanics. The school hosts the GM ASEP, Honda PACT and Toyota T-TEN programs as well as a program for becoming a Caterpillar technician.
• Grant Career Center. This is just one of many technical and career centers and high schools that offer a secondary education in automotive technology. Students from several high schools around Bethel, Ohio, are able to come here to participate in an AYES-certified program. It prepares students to begin entry-level work in automotive service immediately upon graduation.

ASE Certification in Ohio

ASE certifies mechanics around the country, and achieving this certification is a great way to prove that you have the skills and knowledge to work in automotive technology. You can get certified in general automotive technology but also in several areas of specialization. It is a good way to advance your career and earn a better income. To qualify to take the certification exams you need either two years of work experience in the area in which you’ll be tested or one year of work experience after completing an educational program.

Working as an Auto Mechanic in Ohio

With a degree or certificate in automotive technology you will be able to land an entry-level position where you can continue to train under master mechanics. If you complete a manufacturer-specific program, you will be hired by that dealership. But, if you did not you have many options, including car dealerships, service stations, body and paint shops, tire centers and oil change stations.

By learning the skills needed to continue on-the-job training, you put yourself in a great position to get a job in Ohio working as a mechanic. With experience, ongoing training and certification you can even learn to become a master mechanic or specialist and earn a great living doing what you love.

College Listings