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Apprentice Automotive Mechanic Jobs in Tennessee

Automotive Mechanic

Madison, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

Automotive Mechanic

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

Automotive Mechanic

Hermitage, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

Automotive Mechanic

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

Automotive Mechanic

Old Hickory, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

Automotive Mechanic

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Position Overview As an Automotive Technician - Lead at CarMax, you'll play a vital role in ... Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

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Apprentice Automotive Mechanic information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$19

$33

How much do apprentice automotive mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice automotive mechanic in Tennessee is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice automotive mechanic?

Apprentice automotive mechanics are entry-level technicians who work under the supervision of experienced mechanics to learn how to inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles. They typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction to develop their technical skills and knowledge of automotive systems. Apprentices perform routine tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and basic diagnostics while gaining hands-on experience. Over time, they progress to more complex repairs and diagnostics as they advance in their apprenticeship program.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an apprentice automotive mechanic?

To thrive as an Apprentice Automotive Mechanic, you need foundational knowledge of vehicle systems, basic mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and sometimes entry-level certifications like ASE Student Certification are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from experienced technicians are valuable soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate vehicle repairs, personal safety, and steady progression in the automotive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice automotive mechanics during their training period?

As an Apprentice Automotive Mechanic, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of an auto shop and learning to troubleshoot a wide variety of vehicle issues under supervision. Balancing hands-on work with studying for certifications can also be demanding. However, most shops foster a supportive team environment where experienced technicians mentor apprentices, offering guidance and feedback to help you develop your technical skills and confidence.

What is the difference between Apprentice Automotive Mechanic vs Automotive Technician?

AspectApprentice Automotive MechanicAutomotive Technician
CertificationsTypically in training, may have basic certificationsUsually certified or licensed, with ASE certifications
Work ExperienceOn-the-job training, limited experienceExperienced, with hands-on repair skills
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasksIndependent repair work in shops or dealerships
Job RoleAssists and learns basic repairsPerforms diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance

In summary, an Apprentice Automotive Mechanic is in training and gaining foundational skills, while an Automotive Technician is an experienced professional capable of performing complex repairs independently.

How to get into an apprentice automotive mechanic apprenticeship?

To become an apprentice automotive mechanic, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and a valid driver's license. You can apply directly to automotive repair shops or through technical schools that offer apprenticeship programs, which often include on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Certifications like ASE may improve your prospects, and a willingness to learn and work with tools and equipment is essential.

Is an apprentice automotive mechanic apprenticeship worth it?

An apprentice automotive mechanic apprenticeship provides hands-on training, industry experience, and often leads to certification, which can improve job prospects and earning potential. It typically involves working under experienced mechanics while learning technical skills and vehicle repair techniques, making it a valuable step for those entering the automotive repair field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Mechanic jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Automotive Mechanic jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Apprentice Automotive Mechanic jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Apprentice Automotive Mechanic job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Automotive Mechanic job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,574 per year, or $20 per hour.

Automotive Mechanic

Carmax

Madison, TN • On-site

$18 - $41.70/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform advanced automotive repairs, including brake diagnosis, steering and suspension work, 4-wheel alignments, electrical troubleshooting, and EFI system repairs.

  • Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.

  • Ensure all vehicles meet CarMax Final Quality Standards.


CarMax rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 375 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 739 rated retailers


Job description

7150 - Nashville - 2501 Powell Ave, Nashville, Tennessee, 37204

CarMax, the way your career should be! 

Position Overview

As an Automotive Technician – Lead at CarMax, you’ll play a vital role in delivering best-in-class vehicle quality and customer satisfaction. This position combines advanced technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, ensuring every vehicle meets CarMax’s Final Quality Standards. You’ll perform complex repairs across multiple systems, including GM EFI, Ford EFI, Chrysler EFI, Asian EFI, and European EFI, while mentoring apprentice technicians and driving operational excellence.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Perform advanced automotive repairs, including brake diagnosis, steering and suspension work, 4-wheel alignments, electrical troubleshooting, and EFI system repairs.
  • Lead and mentor apprentice technicians, fostering a culture of learning and technical excellence.
  • Ensure all vehicles meet CarMax Final Quality Standards.
  • Conduct emission and safety inspections, heating and air conditioning service, and engine performance diagnostics.
  • Maintain and repair specialized shop equipment and safely transport vehicles between locations as directed.
  • Provide exceptional customer service, representing CarMax’s commitment to integrity and transparency.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Ability to read and interpret technical data for accurate record-keeping.
  • Strong collaboration skills to work effectively across departments.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and manual dexterity.
  • Clear and professional communication skills for customer and team interactions.
  • Physical capability to perform work, including lifting up to 50 lbs and standing or walking for extended periods, in a role that blends office and outdoor environments with potential exposure to noise and inclement weather; requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and adherence to CarMax uniform standards.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Where required by State/Local law, maintain ASE Certifications in Steering and Suspension (A4), Brakes (A5), Heating Air Conditioning (A7), Electrical (A6), Engine Repair (A1), Manual Drive Train and Axles (A3), Engine Performance (A8), and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2)

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$18.00 - $41.70

Commissions:

This position is eligible for commission.

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commissioned are eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company. 
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday.  If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay. 

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval. 

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


What CarMax employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


CarMax logo

About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US