top of page

OCCUPATIONAL INFORMATION FOR TODAY'S 

TECHNICIAN

AdobeStock_345332315.jpeg

TECHNICIANS

These careers are not the dirty, low-mobility, analog jobs of years past. The technician pathway has become more lucrative, high-tech, and in-demand, providing lots of career paths both within the auto industry and abound. 

With the arrival of new high-tech features, such as connected vehicle systems, autonomy, advanced driver assistance systems, and zero emissions tech, the industry is ripe with new opportunities and primed for a new generation. 

fist and wrench small_edited.png

TECHNICIAN PATHWAYS

Qualities that define technicians are in high demand across industries providing lots of opportunities to leverage your skills in other areas. 

Example Traditional Paths

  • Senior Technicain 

  • Service Advisor

  • Genereal Manager

  • Shop Owner

  • Machinist 

  • Collision Repair

  • Parts Professional

  • Heavy Equipment Tech

Other Example Paths

  • Aircraft Mechanic

  • Automotive Instructor

  • Manufacuturing Tech

  • Fleet Tech

  • Motorcycle Tech

  • HVAC/R Tech

  • Engineer

  • Design

DEALER TECHNICIAN DATA

SEVERE SHORTAGE

Each dealership needs 3 technicians on average (1)

Unfilled Positions

4,365 total number of unfilled positions at California's Dealerships (1)

Entry Pay

80% of technicians make at least $31/hr in two years (1)

Top Techs

90% of dealers paid $100k to the top techs (1)

Tech icon.png

HIGHEST TECH WAGES

While start salaries can vary between $18 -$28 an hour, wages can accelerate to over $31/hr within the first couple of years and grow exponentially from there. 

12.1%

Report making $150k - $175K (1)

13.1%

Report making $175k - $200K (1)

20.6%

Report making $100k - $125K (1)

22.4%

Report making $125k - $150K (1)

22.4%

Report making $200k + (1)

AdobeStock_646776609_edited.jpg

ZEV TECHNICIANS

As hybrid and electric vehicle technology advances and becomes increasingly more common, the need for technicians and mechanics skilled in servicing EVs and more advanced vehicles is increasing rapidly. 

California is leading the way in ZEV adoption across the nation. In 2016, California's light-duty market share was roughly 2.5%. Fast forward to the middle of 2024 and it now sits at 21.4%, representing a 756% increase in 6.5 years. 

756% Market Growth

In San Diego County, Electric (BEV), Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), & Hybrid vehicle registrations represent 41.8% of the vehicle market so far in 2024 (Experian Automotive).

41.8% of Vehicle Registrations

AdobeStock_283063157.jpeg

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

Insights from industry

01

Finding EV Techs

Employers report they are seeking technicians who are excited about this technology, demonstrate proficiency in electrical skills, and are willing to travel. Some employers report sourcing technicians from nontraditional areas such as Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technicians.

03

ZEV Technician Demand

96% of respondents indicated they expect the demand for technicians servicing HD zero-emission vehicles to increase in the next five years. 4% of respondents think the demand will largely remain the same.

02

Insights from Volvo

"The wide-scale electrification of the transportation system will require a highly skilled and specialized workforce to support, maintain, and repair advanced electric drivetrains and their increasingly sophisticated technology." Volvo Lights

04

Technician Shortage

81% of respondents indicated they are experiencing a shortage of technicians.

bottom of page