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Entry Level Auto Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA

With locations across North America and more than $4.5 billion in tire and auto service sales ... entry-level vehicle services, and ensuring customer satisfaction through thorough and timely ...

Sales and Service Technician

Highland, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $26.29/hr

With locations across North America and more than $4.5 billion in tire and auto service sales ... entry-level vehicle services, and ensuring customer satisfaction through thorough and timely ...

Sales and Service Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$14.40 - $21.51/hr

With locations across North America and more than $4.5 billion in tire and auto service sales ... entry-level vehicle services, and ensuring customer satisfaction through thorough and timely ...

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Entry Level Auto Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do entry level auto technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level auto technician 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.

How to get started as an automotive technician?

To start as an entry-level auto technician, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a technical training program or automotive service technology program. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and earning certifications like the ASE certification can improve job prospects. Familiarity with diagnostic tools and a valid driver's license are also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level auto technicians during their first year on the job?

As an entry level auto technician, one common challenge is adapting to the fast-paced environment of a professional shop while learning to efficiently diagnose and repair a wide range of vehicle issues. New technicians often need to quickly develop their technical skills and become familiar with shop tools, diagnostic equipment, and safety protocols. Balancing accuracy with speed, effectively communicating with more experienced technicians, and keeping up with evolving automotive technology are also typical hurdles. However, with mentorship and on-the-job training, most entry level technicians find that their confidence and abilities grow rapidly during the first year.

What is the difference between Entry Level Auto Technician vs Auto Service Advisor?

AspectEntry Level Auto TechnicianAuto Service Advisor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; ASE certifications beneficialHigh school diploma; customer service experience helpful
Work EnvironmentGarage or repair shop, hands-on technical workService desk, customer interaction, administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive repair shops, dealershipsAuto dealerships, repair shops, service centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles are essential in automotive service, Entry Level Auto Technicians focus on repairing and maintaining vehicles, requiring technical skills and certifications. Auto Service Advisors primarily handle customer interactions, scheduling, and explaining repairs. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in the automotive industry.

Can I become an automotive technician with no experience?

Entry level auto technician positions typically do not require prior experience, as employers often provide on-the-job training. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and may pursue certifications like ASE to improve job prospects.

What is an entry-level automotive technician?

An entry-level automotive technician is a beginner in the automotive repair field who performs basic maintenance and repair tasks under supervision. They typically have a high school diploma, may hold certifications like ASE, and use tools such as diagnostic scanners to identify issues. This role often serves as a starting point for developing skills and gaining experience in vehicle repair and servicing.

What is the $160,000 mechanic job that Ford can't fill?

The $160,000 mechanic job often refers to specialized roles such as master automotive technicians or high-level service managers, which require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience. These positions typically involve complex diagnostics, advanced tools, and leadership responsibilities, making them difficult to fill despite high compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Auto Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Auto Technician, you need a basic understanding of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training in auto repair. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, automotive lifts, and maintenance software is often required, with ASE certification being advantageous. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective customer communication make candidates stand out. These skills ensure repairs are performed accurately, efficiently, and safely, contributing to customer satisfaction and shop productivity.

What does an entry level auto technician do?

An entry level auto technician performs basic maintenance and repair tasks on vehicles, such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and replacing fluids or filters. They often work under the supervision of more experienced technicians and learn to use diagnostic tools and equipment. This role is a starting point for a career in automotive repair and provides hands-on experience in understanding vehicle systems and proper safety procedures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Technician jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Auto Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Auto Technician jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Auto Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Auto Technician jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Auto Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Auto Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,476 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Lube Technician

Lube Technician

Santa Margarita Ford

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Santa Margarita Auto Group is currently seeking a full-time Lube Technician for our expanding dealership group! This is the perfect entry level position for individuals looking to get a foot in the door in the automotive industry and learn how sell yourself, your organization, and your product!

We're looking for exciting people to join our team who are (above all): honest, hardworking, positive, and fun to be around. While prior retail and customer service experience is a plus, we're really looking for people who want to learn and commit to a long term career. Many of our employees have been with the company 10+ years --- and don't worry, we will train you! It really is a lot of fun!

While our organization continues to grow, we are at the heart of all that we do, a family organization. Our "mom and pop" approach gives us several advantages and really sets us apart from today's corporate climate. Our organization is known for honest and fair dealings, quality service, and long term community-based relationships with employees, customers, and vendors.

We are a progressive organization that offer much more to our team members than other companies. What makes Santa Margarita Auto Group different from other companies?

  • Commitment to Integrity - We've won various manufacturer awards including Ford Motor Company's highest honor, the President's Award, 11 times in the last 15 years!
  • Professional and Innovative Approach - We strive to lead our industry in new ways to sell and service vehicles! And we're not afraid to try something new.
  • Employee Involvement - No one can do it by themselves. We work hard at working together to reach higher levels of success than could be achieved individually. We value everyone's opinion regardless of job position. Cross departmental teams help cultivate a thriving environment with ample career advancement opportunities.
  • Competitive and Lucrative Compensation - Your performance, work ethic, and attitude determines your success!
  • Ongoing Training - We make available all types of personal and professional training resources because it's only reasonable that we train before we ask you to sell a vehicle!
  • Customer Service is our way of life! - Check us out on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to see what our customers and community think about us.
  • Community Involvement - Since 1951, our business has been to make our community a better place to live and work. Through charitable contributions, special events and fundraisers, and direct involvement in schools, hospitals, and businesses, Santa Margarita Auto Group believes that investing in our communities is simply the right thing to do.

We invite you to visit our websites --- currently www.santamargaritaford.com and www.santamargaritatoyota.com --- and call or email us with any questions. While you're there, take a moment and fill out our secure online employment application --- we'd love to get you into an exciting career of automotive sales and help change your future!

 

JOB DUTIES:

  • Provide automotive services by performing inspections, repairs, maintenance, and installations efficiently and safely.
  • Road test vehicles to ensure repairs are completed properly.
  • Complete service and repair assignments correctly, provides detailed information of repair procedure performed, to pass quality inspections or test drives.
  • Collect all necessary information before requesting parts, return cores to the parts department upon completion of repair.
  • Review and evaluates service write-up to determine if additional information is necessary and what type of service is needed.
  • Properly complete maintenance and repair on vehicles including quality control checks.
  • Use computer to look up part availability, repair orders information and complete inspections.
  • Utilize technology to document vehicle maintenance and repair recommendations.
  • Use manuals and online systems including diagrams as necessary to complete the repair order.
  • Properly dispose of used parts and returns unused parts to the parts counterperson.
  • Complete time ticket correctly and documents proper time clocking on repair order.
  • Use diagnostic procedure to identify the symptoms of the problem, the conditions under which they occur, as well as how often the symptoms occur.
  • Follow safety rules and regulations.
  • Complete warranty repair orders according to policy.
  • Return special tools and reference materials to their designated locations.
  • Maintain certifications and training requirements from the manufacturer and Dealership.
  • Dealership provides tools for this position.

JOB REQUIREMENTS: While no experience is necessary, an ideal candidate will be dependable, professional, and have a positive, can-do attitude. Other requirements include:

  • 18 years of age or older.
  • General familiarity with a variety of automobiles.
  • Valid driver's license for a minimum of 1 year and clean driving record.
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills.
  • Pre-employment background check and drug test.
  • Must be willing to work as part of a team.
  • Must have basic computer and phone skills.

 

JOB BENEFITS:

  • Growth opportunities
  • Fast paced work environment
  • Medical & dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • Vehicle purchase plan

PAY: $35,360.00 - $41,600.00 Annually plus Inspection Bonus based upon completion of requested multi point inspections

Equal Opportunity Employer