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Car Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kaady Car Washes

Car Wash Associate

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Traffic Management Car wash uses advanced technology: No hands on!! Next steps are: * Shift Lead * Car Care specialist * Assistant Manager * Location Manager ALL EMPLOYEES: * You must be 18 or older ...

Kaady Car Wash

Car Wash Associate

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Traffic Management Car wash uses advanced technology: No hands on!! Next steps are: * Shift Lead * Car Care Specialist * Assistant Manager * Location Manager All employees: * You must be 18 or older ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Torrance, CA

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Folsom, CA

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Elk Grove, CA

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Bakersfield, CA

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$17.85 - $24.09/hr

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

Best Buy

Car Electronics Installer

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17.85 - $24.09/hr

As a Car Electronics Installer, you'll install new technology into customers' vehicles in the installation bay of our local Best Buy store. You'll also share advice, best practices and product ...

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All JobsCar Tech JobsCar Tech Jobs in California

Car Tech information

See California salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do car tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for car tech in California is $18.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a car tech?

Car Techs, short for Car Technicians or Automotive Technicians, are skilled professionals who inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles. Their responsibilities include diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues, performing routine maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations, and ensuring vehicles are safe and efficient to operate. Car Techs often work in auto repair shops, dealerships, or specialized service centers, using a variety of tools and diagnostic equipment. They play a crucial role in keeping cars running smoothly and addressing any issues before they become major problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a car tech?

To thrive as a Car Tech, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, diagnostics, and repair, often supported by a vocational certificate or associate degree in automotive technology. Familiarity with diagnostic scanners, repair databases, and manufacturer-specific tools is crucial for efficient troubleshooting and service. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with team members and customers set top performers apart. These skills ensure accurate repairs, customer satisfaction, and workplace safety in a fast-evolving automotive industry.

What are some common challenges car techs face when diagnosing modern vehicles, and how can they overcome them?

Car Techs often encounter challenges with the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, especially as more electronic and computerized systems are integrated. Diagnosing issues now frequently requires using specialized diagnostic tools and staying updated with new technologies. To overcome these challenges, techs benefit from ongoing training, collaborating with experienced team members, and accessing updated technical manuals or service bulletins. Many shops also encourage sharing knowledge within the team to quickly solve unusual problems and ensure efficient repairs.

What is the difference between Car Tech vs Auto Technician?

AspectCar TechAuto Technician
CertificationsASE Certification, manufacturer-specific trainingASE Certification, state licensing
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, dealerships, service centersRepair shops, dealerships, independent garages
Job ResponsibilitiesDiagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, often focusing on electronics and systemsPerforming repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance on vehicles, including mechanical and electrical systems

Car Tech and Auto Technician roles often overlap in certifications and work environments. Car Techs typically focus on electronic systems and diagnostics, while Auto Technicians handle broader mechanical repairs. Both roles are essential in automotive service industries and require similar credentials, but their specific focus areas differ slightly.

How much do car technicians get paid?

Car technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level technicians may start lower, while experienced or specialized technicians can earn higher wages, especially with ASE certifications and advanced skills.

What are popular job titles related to Car Tech jobs in California?

For Car Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Car Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Car Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Car Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Car Tech job openings:

Car Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Car Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,174 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Hyundai/Genesis Tune-up, A/C, new car, Heavy line MECHANIC

Cadillac of Laguna Niguel

Laguna Niguel, CA

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

FULL TIME Automotive Service Department Tune-up, A/C Tech  NEW CAR TECH, heavyline  (15A/ELECTRICAL/QUICK SERVICE) needed for Hyundai/Genesis  Dealership in Laguna Niguel, CA.

Hyundai/Genesis Certification & ASE Certification is wanted! FULL TIME, Benefits, Vacation, 401K opportunities AVAILABLE.

Apply