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Automotive Apprentice Jobs in San Rafael, CA (NOW HIRING)

Disabled American Veterans

NSO (Apprentice)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$50K/yr

National Service Officer Apprentice Reports To: NSO Supervisor Salary Grade: Grade 10 ($20.18 - $31.39/hour) Type of position: ý Full-time o Part-time Hours: 40 hr/week o Exempt ý Nonexempt Job ...

Ongaro & Sons

Electrical Install Apprentice

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Position Summary The Install Apprentice is responsible for performing electrical installations on a variety of electrical systems and equipment including solar under the direction of the Lead ...

New

D-Line Constructors, Inc.

Apprentice (Union)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$24 - $51/hr

D-Line is seeking an Apprentice to join the team! Position Requirements Subject to CBA Equal Opportunity Employer D-Line Constructors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an ...

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All JobsAutomotive Apprentice JobsAutomotive Apprentice Jobs in San Rafael, CA

Automotive Apprentice information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

$13

$24

$41

How much do automotive apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive apprentice in San Rafael, CA is $24.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 the automotive repair field. It often leads to employment opportunities and a pathway to becoming a licensed mechanic.

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.

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 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 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.
More about Automotive Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive jobs in San Rafael, CA? The most popular types of Automotive jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Apprentice jobs in San Rafael, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Apprentice jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Automotive Apprentice jobs? Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Automotive Apprentice job openings:
Automotive Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Apprentice job openings in San Rafael, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,060 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Diesel Technician Apprentice (Military Veterans)

Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP)

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Victory Isuzu Trucks of Petaluma, California is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Isuzu Service Technician.

This opportunity is part of the Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP), a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill®-approved Registered Apprenticeship program designed to help qualified Veterans transition into the commercial truck industry. Through IVAP, participants may gain hands-on dealership experience while working toward successful completion of apprenticeship and certification requirements.

IVAP connects qualified applicants with participating Isuzu dealerships seeking skilled technical talent. Qualified applicants receive recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and guidance through the Registered Apprenticeship and GI Bill® benefits process, where eligible.

What You Will Do

As an Isuzu Service Technician Apprentice, you may support dealership service operations by assisting with the inspection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of Isuzu commercial vehicles. This may include working alongside dealership service teams, participating in on-the-job learning, and completing program-related apprenticeship requirements.

Ideal candidates may have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Wheeled vehicle maintenance
• Diesel mechanics
• Heavy equipment maintenance
• Automotive repair
• Aircraft maintenance
• Generator maintenance
• Fleet maintenance
• Military maintenance supervision

Requirements

• Transitioning Service Member or U.S. Military Veteran status
• 3–5 years of military or civilian technician work experience
• Honorable military discharge or Commander’s Statement of Service
• Hands-on experience with diesel, automotive, heavy equipment, aircraft, generator, fleet maintenance, or related mechanical systems
• Ability to provide work references
• Clean driving record, as attested by the applicant
• Ability to complete the IVAP technical assessment
• Ability to pass applicable dealership background, driving record, or drug screening requirements

Preferred qualifications include:

• Diesel engine maintenance or repair experience
• Experience with commercial trucks, fleet vehicles, or heavy equipment
• Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and shop equipment
• Experience working with electrical, braking, suspension, HVAC, or driveline systems
• ASE certifications, technical school training, or military maintenance training
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and teamwork skills

Benefits

Isuzu IVAP Apprenticeship Highlights

• Potential full-time employment with a participating Isuzu dealership
• Program designed specifically to support Transitioning Service Members and U.S. Military Veterans
• Participation in a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill®-approved Registered Apprenticeship program, where eligible
• Eligible Veterans may apply for and receive GI Bill® benefits during the apprenticeship, where eligible
• Access to tools, equipment, vehicles, and training needed to complete apprenticeship and certification requirements, as provided through the participating dealership and IVAP program structure
• Opportunity to apply military mechanical experience toward a civilian Isuzu Service Technician career
• Recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and apprenticeship process guidance

Hiring decisions, wages, employee benefits, employment offers, and employment conditions are determined by the participating Isuzu dealership. Applicants are applying for employment with a participating Isuzu dealership and not with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. or Educational Resource Systems, Inc.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Use of the term does not imply endorsement, affiliation, or approval by VA.