Auto Mechanic Schools in Oregon

Preparation is key to starting an auto mechanic career in Oregon. Candidates prepared for the process as early as possible can review the steps confidently and enjoy themselves.

For state residents who would like to start their auto mechanic careers on this note, we have prepared a detailed guide below that will leave them a hundred percent prepared. By the time they are done reading, they will understand what requirements are expected of them, which steps to prioritize, and what alternatives they have concerning things like education and certification.

They will also have a clear picture of which salary category they may fall into and how much they can expect to make at the end of each year.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Oregon

Below are the steps involved in becoming a successful auto mechanic in Oregon.

Enrolling in a Trade Program

Candidates for successful automotive mechanic careers in Oregon must enroll in a training program. However, they must first have a high school diploma or GED.

This will allow them to gain admission, develop relevant skills, and acquire an associate degree.

Additionally, candidates who attend high-quality training programs may receive job placement assistance.

Individuals may also want to spend less than two years in an academic environment obtaining an associate degree. In this case, they may choose a certificate program that can be completed in six months to a year.

In an upcoming section, we will explore some top options for Oregon residents for a flexible yet comprehensive automotive mechanic training program.

Specialized & Hands-On Training

After attending a trade program to learn fundamental principles in general automotive technology, candidates can continue their training by focusing on a specific area within the profession.

Usually, the top training programs offer students the chance to participate in manufacturer-specific programs with big industry names like Ford, Toyota, and General Motors, among others.

Certification & Career Growth

After proper education and specialty training, candidates should consider certification to set themselves apart. Below, we explore this key step of the process further.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become an aircraft mechanic in Oregon

Licensure & Certification Requirements

There is no state body in charge of licensing auto mechanics in Oregon. Candidates are expected to receive a license after they can start working professionally.

They are not forced to become certified, but this part of the process is very advisable. Certification helps candidates stand out, verify their skills, and give them access to opportunities such as networking and continuing education.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers several credentials to help professionals become certified in Oregon and nationwide. The Institute offers more than 40 specialty categories, including damage analysis, truck equipment certification, light truck certification, engine machinist, school bus, transit bus, and alternate fuels.

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Oregon

The schools below offer some of Oregon’s most prominent training programs for future auto mechanics.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Oregon by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Portland

Salary & Career Outlook

The projections for automotive technology are quite favorable in Oregon and across the country. Thanks to advancements in automotive technology, the need to replace aging workers, and those who move to other disciplines, more positions are set to open up every year.

As for the current annual average salary to expect, auto mechanics in Oregon may manage a manual average salary of $126,440 if they are among the highest-paid or an annual average salary of $43,774 if they are among the lowest-paid. If they are among the median earners — the most common category — they can take home an annual average salary of around $74,396.

Location is one factor that helps candidates improve their earning potential in the state. Milwaukie is the highest-paying destination, with an annual average salary of $90,869. Portland, with an annual average salary of $82,769, and Salem, with an annual average salary of $75,293, are next.