1

Automotive Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Department of Labor and GI Bill-approved Registered Apprenticeship program designed to help ... Wheeled vehicle maintenance Diesel mechanics Heavy equipment maintenance Automotive repair Aircraft ...

Apprentice - CNC Machinist

Antioch, TN

$17 - $22/hr

Apprentice - CNC Machinist Location: LaVergne, TN, US, 37086 On-site or Remote: Onsite REQ ID ... Mechanical or technical abilities (automotive, shop class, robotics, tools, etc.) * Strong problem ...

Apprentice - CNC Machinist

Antioch, TN

$17 - $22/hr

Apprentice - CNC Machinist Location: LaVergne, TN, US, 37086 On-site or Remote: Onsite REQ ID ... Mechanical or technical abilities (automotive, shop class, robotics, tools, etc.) * Strong problem ...

Be Seen First

Electrical Apprentice

Loudon, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

APPRENTICE ELECTRICIAN Elevate Your Electrical Career: We are seeking an electrical apprentice to join our East TN team . Preferably with a minimum of 2-3 years of experience as an electrical ...

Be Seen First

Electrical Apprentice

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

APPRENTICE ELECTRICIAN Elevate Your Electrical Career: We are seeking an electrical apprentice to join our Middle TN team . Preferably with a minimum of 2-3 years of experience as an electrical ...

Automotive Technician

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$50K - $85K/yr

OVERVIEW We're looking for an experienced and driven Automotive Technician/Mechanic to join our team at CS Automotive. In this role, you'll perform various automotive services, including tire ...

Automotive Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Company Description EchoPark Automotive is one of the fastest growing brands within the automotive industry. We are building a business based on doing things the right way. From the way we treat our ...

Showing results 41-60

Automotive Apprentice information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$19

$33

How much do automotive apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive apprentice 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 automotive apprentice?

Automotive apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills required to become professional automotive technicians or mechanics through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. They typically work under the supervision of experienced professionals, assisting with maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on various types of vehicles. Apprenticeships allow them to gain practical experience, develop technical expertise, and often fulfill the requirements needed for industry certifications or licenses.

What does an automotive apprentice do?

Automotive apprentices train with professional mechanics to learn how to repair vehicles. In this role, you start by shadowing experienced mechanics, watching their techniques, and observing how they use different tools and equipment. You learn which tools to use for each type of repair, then practice using the equipment. Automotive apprentices often begin working with a non-operational vehicle before working on customer vehicles; you may start with relatively easy tasks, such as tire installations, and progressing to more complicated jobs, like multi-point inspections. Some companies offer apprenticeships as training programs designed to help you qualify for various industry certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and manufacturer-specific software is typically required, with some employers preferring candidates who are enrolled in or have completed an automotive technology program. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills help apprentices stand out when working alongside experienced technicians. These skills and qualities are essential for developing technical proficiency, ensuring safety, and progressing toward a successful automotive career.

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

Automotive Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to new technologies, mastering complex diagnostic tools, and balancing hands-on work with classroom learning. Working under experienced technicians, apprentices may initially find it demanding to keep up with the fast-paced environment and the variety of vehicle makes and models. However, these challenges are essential for building a strong foundation and are typically addressed through mentorship, structured training programs, and gradual increases in responsibility, all of which prepare apprentices for successful careers as certified automotive technicians.

What is the difference between Automotive Apprentice vs Automotive Technician?

AspectAutomotive ApprenticeAutomotive Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a basic license or certificationHigh school diploma, ASE certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasks, entry-levelSkilled work, diagnosing and repairing vehicles independently
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by auto shops, dealerships, and service centers for trainingFull-time professional role in automotive repair shops

In summary, an Automotive Apprentice is in the training phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while an Automotive Technician is a fully qualified professional capable of diagnosing and repairing vehicles independently.

Is an automotive apprenticeship worth it?

An automotive apprenticeship provides hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications, making it valuable for developing practical skills and improving job prospects in automotive repair and maintenance. It often leads to employment opportunities and a solid foundation for a career as a mechanic or technician.

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

The most popular types of Automotive jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Automotive Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Automotive Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Automotive Apprentice job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% 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 Technician - BMW of Nashville (South)

Sonic Automotive

Brentwood, TN • On-site

$47/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Sonic Automotive rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 155 rated car dealerships


Job description

Company Description
At BMW of Nashville, a Sonic Automotive family dealership, you'll find the opportunities, resources, and support you need to grow and develop professionally. Our 100+ dealerships are concerned with more than moving inventory; they're committed to your success and invested in your future. So read on, and consider a rewarding career with Sonic Automotive.
At BMW CPO of Nashville, earn up to $47 per hour as a certified BMW Technician.
$2,500 Sign-On Bonus for A BMW Certified Technician
**Ask about our Tenure Bonus program that begins at 6 months from hire date. Bonus pay up to $3.50 per flat rate hour!!!
In addition, you'll enjoy these benefits:
  • Available $0 Health plan premiums for Technicians based on tenure
  • Our "Hybrid" Medical plan provides associates with a cost-sharing medical/pharmacy plan along with the ability to set aside money through retirement tax-free in a Health Savings Account.
    • When enrolled in the Health Savings Account, you'll have early access to the future contributions through our "HSA on Demand" feature.
    • A company contribution is also made to your HSA every pay period!
  • A choice of 3 dental plans
  • A Vision plan
  • A Flexible Spending Account for a tax-free way to pay for dependent day care
  • Short and Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance (company-paid, as well as supplemental)
  • Legal Plan
  • Critical Illness, Accident and Hospitalization plans
  • Home and Auto Insurance at special group rates and payroll deduction
  • Pet Insurance

Job Description
The Service Technician is responsible for performing vehicle repair and maintenance work as assigned in accordance with dealer and factory standards, while overseeing any assigned apprentice technicians.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Receive repair orders from dispatcher and perform work with efficiency and accuracy in accordance with dealership and factory standards.
  • Diagnose vehicle malfunctions and perform repairs as outlined on repair orders.
  • Communicate with parts department to obtain needed parts and save/tag parts for warranty or customer requests.
  • Examine vehicles to determine if additional safety or service work is required, and notify service advisor immediately of any discrepancies or delays.
  • Document all work performed and road-test vehicles when required.
  • Supervise apprentice technicians as assigned and attend factory-sponsored training classes.
  • Keep abreast of factory technical bulletins and maintain shop area cleanliness and organization.
  • Ensure customers' vehicles are kept clean and account for all dealership-owned tools.
  • Understand and follow federal, state, and local regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal, company safety policies, and immediately report all accidents to management.

Qualifications
  • High CSI is a must.
  • ASE or manufacturing training.
  • High school diploma or the equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license and a good driving record.
  • Manual dexterity.
  • Good Judgment.
  • All applicants must be authorized to work in the USA.
  • All applicants must perform duties and responsibilities in a safe manner.
  • All applicants must be able to demonstrate ability to pass pre-employment testing to include background checks, MVR, drug test, and valid driver license.

Additional Information
It's time to make the most important move of your careerFrom our cooperative, team-based approach, to our more than 1,000 internal advancements each year, it's easy to see the difference. When you join our organization, you'll enjoy comprehensive training, competitive compensation, and unparalleled benefits. Simply put, you'll experience the best that a career in the automotive industry has to offer.

What Sonic Automotive employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Sonic Automotive logo

About Sonic Automotive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At a Sonic Automotive family dealership, you'll find the opportunities, resources, and support you need to grow and develop professionally. Our 100+ dealerships are concerned with more than moving inventory; they're committed to your success and invested in your future.

Industry

Motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1997