How to Become a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Washington
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Washington earn a median salary of $57,790/year, which is 16% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a automotive service technicians and mechanics takes home approximately $2,627/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a automotive service technicians and mechanics can afford in Washington
Becoming a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Washington
Meet education requirements
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many automotive service technicians and mechanics positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for automotive service technicians and mechanicss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 13,740 automotive service technicians and mechanics. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $60K | $29.06/hr | 7,230 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $58K | $27.9/hr | 300 |
| Bellingham | $57K | $27.56/hr | 390 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $56K | $26.72/hr | 500 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $55K | $26.45/hr | 500 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $54K | $26.14/hr | 1,270 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $51K | $24.76/hr | 240 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $51K | $24.47/hr | 610 |
| Longview-Kelso | $49K | $23.68/hr | 210 |
| Yakima | $49K | $23.48/hr | 440 |
| Walla Walla | $49K | $23.36/hr | 90 |
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary range in Washington
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a automotive service technicians and mechanics make in Washington?▼
The median automotive service technicians and mechanics salary in Washington is $57,790 per year ($27.78/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $49,670. Salaries range from $38,530 to $86,990.
What are the requirements to become a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Washington?▼
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a automotive service technicians and mechanics afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $57,790, a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Washington would take home approximately $4,039/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($60,450), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($58,020), Bellingham ($57,320). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means automotive service technicians and mechanics keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.