As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for an Auto Tech/Mechanic I in the United States is $48,900 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.
However, an Auto Tech/Mechanic I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
Compensation Planning
Develop a Job Description
Pay Equity
2025 Compensation Trend
AI-Powered HR
AI Onboarding
An Auto Tech/Mechanic I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Auto Tech/Mechanic I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Auto Tech/Mechanic I | $48,557 |
| Intermediate Level Auto Tech/Mechanic I | $49,401 |
| Senior Level Auto Tech/Mechanic I | $50,118 |
| Specialist Level Auto Tech/Mechanic I | $50,333 |
| Expert Level Auto Tech/Mechanic I | $50,476 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Auto Tech/Mechanic Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how an Auto Tech/Mechanic I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Auto Tech/Mechanic I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Engine Mechanic II | $56,100 | 15% |
| Automotive Service Technician II | $55,200 | 13% |
Salaries for an Auto Tech/Mechanic I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $43,895 in 2023 to around $43,801 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Auto Tech/Mechanic I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $43,895 |
| 2024 | $44,039 |
| 2025 | $43,801 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution.
Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Auto Tech/Mechanic I and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Auto Tech/Mechanic I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
Get a Salary Increase
Analyze the market and your qualifications to negotiate your salary with confidence.
Search Job Openings
Search thousands of open positions to find your next opportunity.
Adjust Employee Salary
Individualize employee pay based on unique job requirements and personal qualifications.
Price My Industry Jobs
Get the latest market price for benchmark jobs and jobs in your industry.
Diesel mechanics in the U.S. typically earn between $44,000 and $57,400 annually, with a median salary of $50,900. While some experienced mechanics may approach or exceed $100,000, the average salary reflects a more modest range. It's essential to consider factors like location and experience when evaluating potential earnings.
Mechanics can earn a decent living, with salaries ranging from $44,000 to $57,400 annually. The median salary is approximately $50,900. While some regions may offer higher wages, this range indicates that many mechanics can achieve a stable income in their profession.
The highest paying states for auto repair professionals include Alaska, where mechanics earn an average salary of around $53,050 annually. Other top states are New Jersey, Hawaii, Washington, and Massachusetts. Overall, salaries for auto techs range from a minimum of $44,000 to a maximum of $57,400, with a mid-range salary of $50,900.
Mechanics in the USA earn between $44,000 and $57,400 annually. The average salary is approximately $50,900, reflecting the midpoint of this range. These figures provide a clear overview of the earning potential for Auto Tech/Mechanics in the industry.
As a mechanic, earning $200k annually is highly unlikely. Typical salaries range from $44,000 to $57,400, with skilled technicians making around $50,900. While shop rates may be $100-150 per hour, technicians usually earn $35-40 per hour. Owning a shop could increase earnings, but it's rare for employees to reach that level.
The majority of mechanics typically work until they reach the retirement age of 65. However, if you're considering retiring early, it's essential to create a financial plan. With an average salary ranging from $44,000 to $57,400, developing strong money management skills is crucial for achieving your retirement goals.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
Salary.com's CompAnalyst platform offers:
