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Car Tuning Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Area Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

What's Under the Hood DriveTime Family of Brands is the largest privately owned used car sales ... fine tuning them to meet our business philosophy. We are more than your typical traditional ...

Buying a car the old fashioned way sucks and we are working hard to make it NOT suck. I mean, have ... It could be as simple as connecting a monitor to as complicated as tuning a flux capacitor to ...

Buying a car the old fashioned way sucks and we are working hard to make it NOT suck. I mean, have ... It could be as simple as connecting a monitor to as complicated as tuning a flux capacitor to ...

Buying a car the old fashioned way sucks and we are working hard to make it NOT suck. I mean, have ... It could be as simple as connecting a monitor to as complicated as tuning a flux capacitor to ...

Car Tuning information

See Arizona salary details

$8

$17

$44

How much do car tuning jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for car tuning in Arizona is $17.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is car tuning?

Car tuning is the process of modifying a vehicle to improve its performance, appearance, or handling. This can include adjustments to the engine, suspension, exhaust system, or computer software to boost power, increase fuel efficiency, or create a customized driving experience. Car enthusiasts often tune their vehicles for better speed, acceleration, or unique styling. Tuning can range from simple upgrades like replacing air filters to complex modifications like engine remapping.

What are car tuning jobs?

Car tuning jobs involve modifying the engine or body of a car to prepare it for a race or exhibition. An auto technician, or performance technician, alters the car’s engine or software to increase the car's speed, handling, or other measurable performance. Auto body specialists make cosmetic additions or changes to the body of the vehicle, such as body kits, spoilers, and side skirts. They may also add visuals using vinyl wraps, paint, or stencils. Car tuners often choose to specialize; they may focus on engine or body modifications, or they may specialize further and only modify certain manufacturers or types of cars.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a car tuning specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Tuning Specialist, you need in-depth automotive knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and experience with engine management systems, often supported by relevant technical training or automotive certifications. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, ECU tuning software, and performance measurement systems is essential for effective modifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong customer communication skills help ensure client satisfaction and high-quality results. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing vehicle performance safely and meeting customer expectations in a specialized automotive field.

What are some common challenges car tuners face when working on modern vehicles?

Car tuners often face challenges when working on modern vehicles due to the complexity of electronic control units (ECUs) and integrated software systems. Many newer cars require specialized tools and up-to-date knowledge of proprietary software to safely modify performance settings without causing drivability issues or voiding warranties. Additionally, tuners must stay informed about evolving emission standards and legal regulations, which can vary by region and impact the types of modifications allowed. Working collaboratively with other automotive professionals, such as mechanics and diagnostic technicians, is often necessary to ensure optimal results and compliance.

What is the difference between Car Tuning vs Car Mechanics?

AspectCar TuningCar Mechanics
CredentialsOften no formal certification, but specialized tuning coursesCertified automotive technician or mechanic license
Work EnvironmentPerformance shops, custom garages, racing teamsAuto repair shops, service centers, dealerships
Industry UsageEnhancing vehicle performance and aestheticsMaintaining and repairing vehicles
Common Search IntentPerformance upgrades, ECU tuning, custom modificationsDiagnostics, repairs, routine maintenance

Car tuning focuses on modifying vehicles to improve performance, aesthetics, and customization, often involving ECU remapping and parts upgrades. Car mechanics perform general repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance to ensure vehicle safety and functionality. While both roles work within the automotive industry, tuning emphasizes performance enhancement, whereas mechanics focus on repair and upkeep.

How much do car tuners get paid?

Car tuners typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled tuners with certifications and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in high-demand markets or custom tuning shops.

Is there a career in car tuning?

A career in car tuning involves modifying and optimizing vehicles for performance, appearance, or efficiency. Professionals often work as customizers, mechanics, or in automotive shops, requiring skills in engine tuning, electronics, and sometimes certifications like ASE. The field offers opportunities in automotive customization, racing teams, and specialty shops.

What are the most commonly searched types of Car Tuning jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Car Tuning jobs in Arizona are:

What job categories do people searching Car Tuning jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Car Tuning jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Car Tuning jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Car Tuning job openings:

Infographic showing various Car Tuning job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,046 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Engages store employees both in person and virtually to create strategy and to drive KPIs

  • Ensures sales volume and profitability objectives are achieved by utilizing all sales channels

  • Builds people through training and development, developing leaders, and recognizing team accomplishments


Job description

What’s Under the Hood

DriveTime Family of Brands is the largest privately owned used car sales finance & servicing company in the nation. Headquartered in Tempe, Arizona and Dallas, Texas, we create opportunities and improve the lives of our customers and our employees by placing a focus on putting the right customer, in the right vehicle, on the right terms and on their path to ownership.

You can find DriveTime’s tire tracks across the nation with dealerships where we embrace a transparent pricing approach, eliminating haggling and gimmicks and reconditioning centers where we breathe new life into pre-owned vehicles. Regardless of where you’re located, if you’ve got DRIVE and you’re looking to make an impact, we’d love for you to make a difference with us!

Job Description

In short, an Area Manager of Retail Sales is responsible for operating and executing management across multiple locations of varying regions and states. In addition to managing multiple stores at a high level, an Area Manager is a brand ambassador who grows their team to embody our mission: creating opportunities and improving the lives of our customers and employees. The role exists to help DriveTime improve our retail sales environment by leveraging your existing leadership skills and fine tuning them to meet our business philosophy. We are more than your typical traditional dealership! With our no-haggle, set-price approach, our teams focus on the customers’ experience and not on getting the highest price. We'll give you the right training and the right tools to help you accelerate your career.

Responsibilities
  • Engages store employees both in person and virtually to create strategy and to drive KPIs
  • Ensures sales volume and profitability objectives are achieved by utilizing all sales channels in a continually changing environment.
  • Positions themselves as the subject matter expert on all things sales, process, inventory, and compliance
  • Builds people through training and development, developing leaders, and recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of their team
  • Strategizes to translate operational process realities into compelling data-backed suggestions for change and improvement
  • Facilitates communication that is clear, concise, and professional that has the desired effect/impact via multiple channels
  • Delivers concise and relevant feedback to senior leadership that directly impacts their market/scope
  • Creates a vision of the future in a way that generates buy-in and excitement for new company initiatives
  • Assesses talent accurately and consistently throughout hiring, career development and performance management
  • Fosters relationships with key players in other departments to collaborate within Drive Times network of contacts
  • Can expect to be autonomous in the role in approximately 6-12 months after dedicated training time spent with a seasoned Mentor.
What Kind of Folks Are We Looking for?
  • Master of managing. Be the leader who does things without waiting to be told. Take Charge and own your business! Takes hold of the wheel. We encourage you to bring out and share your ideas all while learning new ones!
  • Quality decision-maker. Good decisions are made based on knowledge. We’ll need you to gather all the facts and take them all into consideration when making decisions.
  • Top of the \"Line\" communicator. Ability to talk and write with confidence, charisma, and competence for a wide variety of audiences including management.
  • Critical thinker. We need folks that don’t simply accept all arguments and conclusions but rather have an attitude involving questioning arguments and conclusions.
  • A mind for the details. Okay, we know \"detail-oriented\" is on about every job description – but we really mean it!
  • Level headed. You’ll need the ability to maintain personal composure when confronted with a difficult situation.
  • Plays well with others. You will be working in a high-functioning team environment. We work together to win together.
Specifics
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred; MBA is a plus
  • 5+ years of management experience to include General Manager, Retail Manager, and at least 1+ year of Multi-Unit Manager experience required
  • Frequent overnight travel is expected
  • On call after hours and weekends
  • Active Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record for the last 3 years
  • The ability to relocate or live in a selected geographical area is required
  • Relocation assistance may be provided
Perks
  • Medical, dental, and vision, oh my! DriveTime Family of Brands covers a sizable amount of insurance premiums to ensure our employees receive top-tier healthcare coverage.
  • 401(K)
  • Company paid life insurance policy
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • Growth Opportunities. You grow, I grow, we all grow!
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Wellness Program. Health is wealth! This program includes self-guided coaching and journeys, cash incentives and discounts on your medical premiums through engaging in fun activities!
  • Gratitude is Green. We offer competitive pay across the organization, because, well… money matters!
  • Consistent Work Schedule. We are strong believers in work/life balance. We’re closed on Sundays to give our employees valued time with family and friends.
  • Monthly bonus share, sales contests, and other perks to recognize a job well done.
  • World Class Training and Development. You can quickly certify on higher levels and prepare for the next role with our manager training programs.
  • Paid Time Off. Not just lip service: we work hard, to play hard! Paid time off includes (for all full-time roles) wellness days, holidays, and good ole' fashioned YOU time! For our Part-timers, don’t fear you get some time too—vacation time is available – the more you work, the more you earn!
Anything Else?
  • DriveTime Family of Brands is Great Place to Work Certified!
  • 90% of our rockstar employees say they feel right at home here.
  • Comparably Awards: Best Company for Diversity, Best Company Culture and Best Company Leadership, Phoenix Business Journal Healthiest Employers.
  • Hiring is contingent upon successful completion of our background and drug screening process.
  • DriveTime is a drug-free, tobacco-free workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • At the DriveTime Family of Brands, we don’t just sell cars - we create opportunities, improve lives, and have fun doing it. Through DriveTime, Bridgecrest, SilverRock, and GoFi, we’re shaking up the pre-owned car industry with fresh ideas, cutting-edge tech, and over 20 years of know-how. From matching the right customer with the right vehicle to making financing simple, we put people in the driver’s seat - literally.
  • We’re headquartered in Tempe, AZ, and Dallas, TX, but our impact stretches nationwide.
  • No matter where you are, you’ll find a team that works hard, laughs often, and celebrates big wins together.
  • Think career growth with a side of camaraderie, innovation, and plenty of high-fives.
  • If you’ve got DRIVE, love solving challenges, and want to make a real impact, your next adventure starts here.
  • Buckle up - your career journey with us is about to take off!
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