As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for an Auto Tech/Mechanic III in the United States is $61,650 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.
However, an Auto Tech/Mechanic III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Auto Tech/Mechanic III'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, education, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Auto Tech/Mechanic III'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Tech/Mechanic I | 0-1 years | $48,877 |
| Automotive Service Technician II | 1-3 years | $55,177 |
| Auto Tech/Mechanic III | 3-5 years | $61,645 |
| Automotive Service Technician IV | 5-7 years | $67,455 |
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 IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 9.61% |
| Retail Operations | 3.81% |
| Wholesale | 1.93% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Territory Management
|
$75,213 |
22%
|
|
Bidding
|
$67,199 |
9%
|
|
Initiative
|
$65,349 |
6%
|
|
Oral Communication
|
$64,733 |
5%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$64,116 |
4%
|
|
Partnering
|
$63,500 |
3%
|
Auto Tech/Mechanic III salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $68,955. While startup companies pay approximate $58,315.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $58,315 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $61,678 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $66,589 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $68,955 |
For Auto Tech/Mechanic III roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Auto Tech/Mechanic positions in Retail & Wholesale or MFG Nondurable typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Auto Tech/Mechanic III as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace & Defense | $73,980 | $36.0 | 20% |
| Biotechnology | $73,980 | $36.0 | 20% |
| Financial Services | $73,980 | $36.0 | 20% |
| Healthcare | $73,980 | $36.0 | 20% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Auto Tech/Mechanic IIIs enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Auto Tech/Mechanic III with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $59,813 and $64,159).
Auto Tech/Mechanic III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.3% |
| High School | 62.8% |
| Associates | 28.1% |
| Bachelors | 4.8% |
| Masters | 2.2% |
| Doctorate | 0.9% |
Understanding how an Auto Tech/Mechanic III'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 July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Auto Tech/Mechanic III, 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 Maintenance Supervisor | $77,000 | 25% |
| Automotive Service Technician IV | $67,500 | 9% |
Salaries for an Auto Tech/Mechanic III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $52,606 in 2023 to around $51,946 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Auto Tech/Mechanic III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $52,606 |
| 2024 | $52,338 |
| 2025 | $51,946 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Auto Tech/Mechanic III roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
The highest 10% of auto mechanics earned an annual salary of over $71,520. While six-figure salaries for auto mechanics are uncommon, job-seekers may find opportunities in areas with a shortage of mechanics or at auto dealerships, which could potentially lead to higher earnings.
Pay for auto mechanics typically ranges from $56,600 to $71,520, with a mid-salary of $64,470. While some highly skilled technicians may earn more, reaching $100k is uncommon and usually requires extensive experience and specialization. Most mechanics will earn within the provided salary range based on their skills and experience.
Mechanic Level 3 involves advanced skills such as using precision measuring tools, advanced trade math, and installing components like bearings, couplings, and mechanical seals. The salary for this position ranges from $56,600 to $71,520, with a mid-range salary of $64,470, reflecting the expertise required in these tasks.
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 a salary range for auto tech/mechanics between $56,600 and $71,520, developing strong money management skills can help you achieve your retirement goals.
A level 3 technician is a highly skilled professional who addresses complex issues related to programming or manufacturing. They typically include engineers and technical experts who have in-depth knowledge of the company's products. In the auto tech field, salaries for such technicians range from $56,600 to $71,520, with a median salary of $64,470.
To become a wealthy mechanic, consider starting your own repair garage or related business. With the right education and experience, you can identify market gaps and capitalize on them. As an auto tech, you can earn between $56,600 and $71,520 annually, and with a successful venture, you could potentially exceed six figures.
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