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Auto Mechanic Entry Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsAuto Mechanic Entry JobsAuto Mechanic Entry Jobs in Riverside, CA

Auto Mechanic Entry information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do auto mechanic entry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto mechanic entry in Riverside, CA is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 25 too late to become an auto mechanic?

Auto mechanic entry is open to individuals of any age, including 25, as the profession values skills, training, and certifications over age. Many mechanics start their careers later in life after completing technical training or apprenticeships, making age less of a barrier to entering the field.

What is the difference between Auto Mechanic Entry vs Auto Service Technician?

AspectAuto Mechanic EntryAuto Service Technician
CertificationsHigh school diploma, ASE certification often preferredHigh school diploma, ASE certification common
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, dealerships, garagesRepair shops, dealerships, service centers
Job FocusDiagnosing and repairing vehicle issuesPerforming maintenance and repairs on vehicles
Employer UsageAuto repair shops, dealershipsAuto repair shops, dealerships

Auto Mechanic Entry and Auto Service Technician roles often overlap, with both requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in job focus: entry-level mechanics may handle basic repairs, while service technicians often perform more complex diagnostics and maintenance tasks. Both roles serve as foundational positions in automotive repair industries.

How to start an auto mechanic career?

To start an auto mechanic career, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, then complete a formal training program or apprenticeship to learn vehicle repair skills. Earning certifications such as the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification can improve job prospects. Gaining hands-on experience and developing knowledge of tools and diagnostic equipment are essential steps in entering the field.

What does an entry-level auto mechanic do?

An entry-level auto mechanic performs basic vehicle repairs and maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and replacing parts under supervision. They use tools like wrenches and diagnostic equipment and often work in repair shops or service centers while gaining experience and certifications. This role provides foundational skills for more advanced automotive work.

How to get into auto mechanic entry with no experience?

To start as an entry-level auto mechanic with no experience, focus on gaining basic automotive knowledge through online courses or community college classes, and consider obtaining a relevant certification such as the ASE Entry-Level Certification. Volunteering or seeking apprenticeships at repair shops can provide hands-on experience and help build skills needed for entry-level positions.
What are popular job titles related to Auto Mechanic Entry jobs in Riverside, CA? For Auto Mechanic Entry jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Mechanic Entry jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Mechanic Entry jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Auto Mechanic Entry jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Auto Mechanic Entry job openings:
Auto Mechanic Entry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Mechanic Entry job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,476 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Auto Body Parts Manager

Auto Collision Group, Inc.

Ontario, CA • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance

Job description:

· Accurately complete parts requests from inception, ordering process, to receiving and distributing parts to technicians.
· Communicate with vendors on parts and service ETA’s
· Check and verify parts received, mirror match
· Inspect parts for damage and negotiate with tech on repair times to panels
· Post parts invoice using complete Shop procedures the day order arrives
· Scan all invoices and necessary documents into complete shop the day the order arrives
· Return parts and collect credits from vendor
· Responsible for all vehicle sublet items (wheels, glass, bumpers, etc.)
· Review necessary supplement parts with tech
· Communicate with estimator any vehicle parts or sublet needs
· Communicate with body technicians and mechanics on any parts needs
· Responsible for repair order documentation
· Assure parts are tagged and stored properly to prevent damage
· Responsible for parts office and parts shelves to be clean and organized at all times
· Negotiate with vendors when necessary when parts are damaged, and an additional discount is needed.
· Ensure that we are receiving the correct discounts per vendor
· All parts ordered must have a purchase order in estimating system
· All invoices received daily must be posted by end of day.
· Keep accurate and detailed records to facilitate returns in a timely fashion. Follow up with vendors within 24 hours after returning a part to ensure credits are received and posted.
· Keep management and Estimators informed of discrepancies in quantity and quality of parts received.
· Use Parts Trader and OPS Trax
· File invoices daily.
· Requires entry to intermediate level experience in discipline
· Conducts routine tasks as directed
· Closely supervised with little latitude for independent judgment
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Experience:
  • Auto Body Parts: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
  • Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person