Auto mechanics are professionals who have received significant training in understanding the parts that make up modern automotive systems. To become a successful automotive mechanic in Massachusetts, one must acquire this training and meet a few guidelines set by relevant authorities.
Keeping up with all these requirements can be challenging, so we have provided the comprehensive guide below detailing everything aspiring auto mechanics in the state must know to begin their careers properly.
We discuss, among other things, all the steps involved in the process, the top automotive schools in the state, and the potential salary that candidates may look forward to at various points in their careers.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Massachusetts
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how to start an automotive mechanic career in Massachusetts.
Have your High School Diploma
The first step to becoming a certified mechanic in Massachusetts is to have your high school diploma or GED. Various educational institutions and apprenticeship programs usually require this.
Enroll In a Training School
After obtaining a high school diploma or GED, candidates may enroll in a training school, which can be a vocational school, community college, or technical school. These schools typically offer automotive technology programs that can be completed in under a year.
The fastest programs can be completed in around 6 months. The topics will include engine repair, electrical, and brake systems.
Instead of attending an academic program, candidates may also obtain hands-on training through apprenticeship programs or by working in actual mechanic workshops as assistants to certified mechanics in the state.
Work Experience
After receiving the necessary training, it is also advisable for an aspiring auto mechanic and Massachusetts to consolidate what they have been taught with actual work experience. Those who attended a vocational school may receive extra training as an apprentice or work as an entry-level mechanic.
Acquiring Certification
From here, candidates may begin to lay the foundation for a successful career by acquiring certification from the ASE—Automotive Service Excellence. The organization offers certification in various specialty areas, such as engine repair, electrical systems, and brakes.
Below, we discuss more about auto mechanic licensing and certification for professionals in Massachusetts.
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Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Massachusetts
The following are some of the most prominent automotive mechanic schools in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Bay Community College
Wellesley, MA Campus Only
Massachusetts Bay Community College offers manufacturer-specific automotive technology training, including BMW, Chrysler, and General Motors associate degree programs.
Students here also get the chance to earn industry certifications, including an array of specialty credentials from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
Tuition
$24 - $230 per CreditContact
(781) 239-3043
dprotano@massbay.edu
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
Boston, MA Campus Only
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology is a popular technical school in the area. Its strong automotive technology program can be completed in 10 months (certificate) or 18 months (associate degree).
Email: admissions@franklincummings.edu
Tuition
$610 - $655 per CreditContact
(877) 400-2348
Email in Bio
Middlesex Community College
Bedford, MA Campus Only
Middlesex Community College offers automotive technology training in a beautiful environment. The program boasts experienced instructors and hands-on training. Graduates typically have an easy time securing employment.
Tuition
$126 - $505 per CreditContact
(800) 818-3434
admissions@middlesex.edu
Explore auto mechanic schools in Massachusetts by city:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
As a fresh automotive mechanic in Massachusetts, you will be glad to know that you don’t have to register with the state to receive a license before you can start practicing professionally. Instead, you may acquire specialty credentials from Automotive Service Excellence to enjoy some of the benefits that come from doing so (including better career opportunities).
To apply for this certification, candidates must pass the national exam and have acquired some work experience as an automotive mechanic.
Additionally, automotive mechanics who work with refrigerants and other air conditioning systems dealing with certain chemicals must acquire a refrigerant certification known as the EPA 609 refrigerant certification.
Salary & Career Outlook
Indeed, the average annual salary for automotive mechanics in Massachusetts is around $76,859, which aligns with the national average. Of course, earning higher or lower than this figure is possible, depending on a few factors.
The most prevalent determining factors include experience, location, specialty area, and employment type. The top 10% of workers earn an annual average salary of $119,203, while the bottom 10% take home an annual average salary of $49,557.
The platform also gives a breakdown of the annual average salary according to specific locations within the state. It shows that Lowell is the highest-paying city to be an automotive mechanic in Massachusetts, with an annual average salary of $108,919. Worcester and Norwood follow this with annual average salaries of $83,706 and $80,211, respectively. Watertown and Brockton round out the top five with annual average salaries of $77,803 and $76,709.
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