Dealership Entry Level Tech Requirement?

[Don]

Hi new member here, I’ve just graduated from a 2 year Auto school not long ago and was wondering what is the minimum certification(s) requirement to get into an entry level tech at a typical dealership?

I have never worked in a job Auto industry before and so far with the addition of the 2 yr Auto degree, I’ve only completed 2 of my State Certification Tests(I know more the merrier). I just need to find a way to get started somewhere.

Topic

[EricTheCarGuy]

Honestly, I’ve seen guys in the car wash end up doing oil changes at the dealer. It really depends on the dealership. Don’t wait for requirements. If you want a job there apply and see what happens.

[Josh]

Well, I can tell you this. I was a diesel mechanic in the Army for 3 years. Got my 2 year degree (associates) in Automotive Transportation Technology. I was able to find a job at my local Chrysler dealership as a lube technician. So, to the dealerships where I live (Southern California), a 2 year degree in automotive doesn’t mean much. I get the same job and pay rate as 18 year old kids fresh out of high school. In fact, this is the least amount of money I have made in almost 10 years, and a very demanding job. I thought a dealership would be the best way to start myself in the automotive business. I was wrong. My experience as a mechanic in the Army isn’t taken into consideration at all. I’d be making the same amount of money starting out at Jiffy Lube. :ohmy: So be careful with the dealerships. In the name of business; cheapest pay for the most amount of productivity. I plan to stay there and see where it goes, but I think I may resort to either strictly switching to a smog technician, going to a “chain” store so I can further expand my somewhat lacking tool collection and/or see about working in an after-market “mom & pops” shop. It seems like this industry is a hit and miss. I’m just in a bad situation where I’m stuck. Be careful and don’t let people take advantage of you. Continue looking for what suites your needs; financially as well as physically (type of work).

[Don]

Thanks guys for your input. I know the wage is a little different depending on location but I was wondering what would be a good starting salary to negotiate with? I live in Michigan.

[Josh]

As a lube tech, you’ll make a little more than minimum wage.

[Author]

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