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Apprentice Car Mechanic Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Car Mechanic information

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$21

$36

How much do apprentice car mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice car mechanic in Virginia is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What tasks and responsibilities can I expect during my apprenticeship as a car mechanic?

As an apprentice car mechanic, you'll typically assist experienced technicians with routine vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. You'll also help diagnose basic mechanical issues, learn to use diagnostic equipment, and gradually take on more complex repairs under supervision. Expect to spend time both in the workshop and in classroom or online training sessions to build your technical knowledge. Collaboration with team members is common, and you'll often work closely with mentors who provide guidance and feedback as you develop your skills.

How to get an apprentice car mechanic apprenticeship?

To become an apprentice car mechanic, you should typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent, then apply to apprenticeship programs offered by automotive shops or trade schools. These programs often require basic mechanical knowledge, a valid driver's license, and a willingness to learn hands-on skills while working under supervision; some may also require passing a skills assessment or interview.

How to become an apprentice car mechanic with no experience?

To become an apprentice car mechanic with no experience, you should typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrate interest in automotive work, and apply to apprenticeship programs offered by dealerships or trade schools. Gaining basic knowledge of automotive systems and tools can improve your chances, and some programs may require passing a skills assessment or background check.

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

AspectApprentice Car MechanicAutomotive Technician
CertificationsNone required initially; on-the-job trainingOften requires ASE certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, training-focusedIndependent or team-based repair shops, dealerships
Job RoleAssisting with repairs, learning tools and proceduresDiagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles

The main difference is that an Apprentice Car Mechanic is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while an Automotive Technician is a more experienced professional capable of diagnosing and repairing vehicles independently. Apprentices typically work towards certifications and have a learning-focused role, whereas Automotive Technicians perform advanced repairs and diagnostics in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice car mechanic?

To thrive as an Apprentice Car Mechanic, you need a basic understanding of automotive systems, manual dexterity, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and automotive repair software is commonly required, and some programs may recommend or require industry certifications like ASE entry-level credentials. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for accurately diagnosing vehicle issues, performing repairs safely, and ensuring customer satisfaction in a fast-paced workshop environment.

What is an apprentice car mechanic?

Apprentice car mechanics are individuals who are learning the skills required to become qualified car mechanics. They typically work under the supervision of experienced mechanics, gaining hands-on experience with vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics. During their apprenticeship, they may also attend vocational training or classes to learn about automotive systems and tools. This role is an entry-level position that provides the foundation for a career in automotive repair.
What are the most commonly searched types of Car Mechanic jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Car Mechanic jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Apprentice Car Mechanic jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Apprentice Car Mechanic job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Car Mechanic job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,413 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Automotive | Apprentice Technician | $18/hr

Virginia Tire and Auto

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Our Automotive Apprentice Technicians are experienced, passionate about working on cars and want to grow quickly in their careers. You need to have the experience to independently perform oil changes and/or tire repairs which makes you immediately eligible for advanced classes and a toolbox program to aid in your learning and growth. From Mazdaโ€™s to Maseratiโ€™s, you get to work on many different makes and models mounting and balancing tires, performing oil changes, other automotive services while learning your trade and building a career. Our shops are filled with the latest tools and technologies, and through our apprentice position you are fast-tracked to success. Virginia Tire & Auto is the place to take your automotive career to the next level.ย 

WHAT YOUโ€™LL DO

  • Become knowledgeable on VTA procedures and performย the followingย automotive services on customer vehicles:
    • Mount and balance tires
    • Tire repairs
    • Oil changes
    • Battery installationย 
    • Visual Brake Checksย ย 
    • Basic Maintenance Light Resetย ย 
  • Complete a 25-point vehicle condition report on all vehicles and check All-Data for scheduled maintenance services on all vehiclesย 
  • Thoroughly document and create estimates forย service recommendations based on the 25-point vehicle condition report.ย ย 
  • Work individually and as a team with the Service Department to meet all promise times.ย 
  • Keep pace with customers, balance multiple priorities and use good judgment to manage time.ย 
  • Participate and complete required training classes to attain C-technicianย ย 
  • Achieve and maintain 40% productivity and $100 rec/car within first 90 days

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Have and maintain a valid driver's license
  • Proven investment in your future goals i.e. owning tools, attending courses and training programsย 
  • Ability to independently perform oil changes and/or replace tiresย 
  • 1 consecutive year or work experience -OR- two years of high school auto tech coursesย 
  • 6+ months of automotive mechanical experience or equivalent NOVA coursesย ย ย 

WHY YOUโ€™LL LOVE US

Mission matters here. At Virginia Tire & Auto our mission is to take the stress out of car care.ย  We do that by taking the stress out of our employees lives by fostering an employee-first culture where employees are appreciated and valued.ย  And by being a values-based business with a conscious.ย  We are looking for individuals to join our team who want to share our values: to be professional, genuine, attentive and forward-thinking.

WHAT WEโ€™LL DO FOR YOU

We provide our employees:

  • Guaranteed hourly rateย 
  • Toolbox and Tools (valued at $8,000)
  • Low-Cost Health Insuranceย 
  • Industry best paid vacation and holidays
  • Tire and auto repair discounts
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement
  • Affordable dental and vision insurance
  • Life & short-term disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Predictable Schedules
  • Energy filled, busy shops
  • A clean, professional work environment with a team that wants to see you succeed
  • A company culture designed to support your career growth

WHO WE ARE

Virginia Tire & Auto is making car care as stress-free as possible. We are proud to be a Top Family Owned Business in the DC area, a Top Shop by Tire Review Magazine and a consistent Best of NOVA Auto Repair winner.ย ย Virginia Tire & Auto is committed to employee advancement and growth by offering career paths and stability to its 400+ employees.

Virginia Tire & Auto promotes a smoke-free, drug-free environment.

Virginia Tire & Auto is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
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