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Entry Level Automotive Tech Jobs in Rhode Island

Technician C, Balise Toyota Warwick

Warwick, RI ยท On-site

$17 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Entry-Level Express Maintenance Automotive Service Technician Balise has immediate openings for ... Modern, climate-controlled, state-of-the-art facility, technology and equipment. * A generous paid ...

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Entry Level Automotive Tech information

See Rhode Island salary details

$7

$10

$12

How much do entry level automotive tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level automotive tech in Rhode Island is $10.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.85 and $12.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Automotive Tech, you need a basic understanding of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, automotive lifts, and manufacturer-specific software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate repairs, safety, and efficient teamwork in a fast-paced auto service environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Automotive Tech vs Automotive Service Technician?

AspectEntry Level Automotive TechAutomotive Service Technician
CertificationsBasic ASE certifications or noneASE certifications often preferred or required
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, dealerships, quick-lube centersRepair shops, dealerships, service centers
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with basic repairs, maintenance, and diagnosticsPerform repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance on vehicles
Experience LevelEntry-level, minimal experienceMid-level, some experience preferred

Entry Level Automotive Techs typically perform basic tasks and assist senior technicians, often requiring minimal certifications. Automotive Service Technicians handle more complex repairs and diagnostics, often with ASE certifications. Both roles work in similar environments like repair shops and dealerships, but the technician role usually demands more experience and credentials.

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

Entry level automotive technicians often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced shop environment, learning to use specialized diagnostic equipment, and building proficiency with various repair procedures. Navigating the expectations of accuracy and efficiency while still mastering foundational skills can be demanding. However, support from experienced team members and ongoing training typically helps new technicians overcome these hurdles and grow in confidence and expertise.

What does an entry level automotive tech do?

An entry level automotive technician is responsible for performing basic maintenance and repair tasks on vehicles under the supervision of senior technicians. Their duties typically include oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, replacing filters, and conducting vehicle inspections. They also assist with diagnosing issues, learning to use specialized automotive tools, and following safety procedures. This role helps new technicians gain hands-on experience and foundational skills necessary for more advanced automotive work.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automotive Tech jobs in Rhode Island?

For Entry Level Automotive Tech jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Automotive Tech job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $22,263 per year, or $10.7 per hour.

Express Technician, Genesis Automotive

Balise Motor Sales

West Warwick, RI โ€ข On-site

$15 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Entry-Level Express Maintenance Automotive Service Technician

Balise has immediate openings for Entry-Level Technicians to become a part of our Express Maintenance Team.

As a member of the Express Maintenance Team, here is what you can expect from us:

  • An investment in you. We want you to grow your career and we provide the coaching, mentoring and paid hands on and/or web-based factory training to do so.
  • Tool assistance programs to help you buy the tools you need to start your career.
  • Forty hours per week of competitive pay (paid weekly) while you learn and grow.
  • Top of scale wage increases as you grow from Express to Certified to Master Technician.
  • Uniforms provided.
  • OSHA Certified, clean and professional work environment.
  • Modern, climate-controlled, state-of-the-art facility, technology and equipment.
  • A generous paid time off policy that starts the month you come onboard.

As a member of the Express Maintenance Team, here is what you will learn from us:

  • Knowledge of automotive systems and the ability to explain systems and repairs to others.
  • Ability to estimate time of service or repair job for purposes of efficient scheduling.
  • Knowledge of parts requirements to complete a job, and ability to communicate parts requirements via repair orders.
  • Knowledge of approved and established procedures for conducting service and repairs.
  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with quality control and inspection requirements of Service Department.

As a member of the Express Maintenance Team, here is what we expect from you:

  • The highest levels of quality and pride in what you do.
  • An inner drive to want to learn and grow your Automotive Career.
  • A desire for your income to increase as you progress.
  • The satisfaction that comes with being a member of a winning team.

Benefits Include:

  • Competitive compensation Paid Weekly.
  • Health, prescription, dental, vision, life and disability insurance.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Flexible healthcare spending accounts.
  • Paid Time-Off available the month you come onboard.
  • Paid Holidays and closed on Sundays.
  • Employee discounts on vehicles, parts, service, insurance and car washes.

Environmental & Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands and fingers to feel and handle, reach with arms and hands, talk and hear.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may incidentally be required to stoop, kneel and crouch, lift weight or exert a force up to a maximum of 25 pounds.
  • A current valid driver's license and insurability rating is required.
  • Knowledge of automotive service fundamentals. Prior technician experience is a plus.
  • Working knowledge of automotive tools and shop equipment.
  • A professional work ethic and the ability to exercise and good judgement.
  • High School diploma or equivalent.