Riggers vs. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics: Who Earns More?
Riggers out-earn Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics by $12K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Riggers land at $62,640 and Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics at $50,620. The education gap is real: rigger programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while automotive service technicians and mechanic programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Riggers is New York ($105,600); for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics it's District of Columbia ($68,660).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Riggers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Riggers or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Riggers earn more nationally. The median is $62,640 for Riggers versus $50,620 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, a difference of $12K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Riggers or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics has the better 10-year outlook at 4.2% projected growth, compared to 3.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Riggers or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Riggers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Riggers get paid the most?
New York is the top-paying state for Riggers at $105,600/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Riggers vs. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New York, Riggers earn $105,600 vs. $54,120 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.