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Entry Level Car Mechanic Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Car Detailer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

We're looking for entry-level Lot Attendants to build an exciting career at Carvana - the fastest ... Ensure each vehicle is inspected for mechanical, drivability or cosmetic concerns * Wash and vacuum ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

Promoting from within - 95% of upper-level management started out in an entry-level position ... Inspecting and replacing car lights and wipers. * Check fluid levels and add fluids to vehicle when ...

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Entry Level Car Mechanic information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$39

How much do entry level car mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level car mechanic 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.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Car Mechanic, you need a fundamental understanding of automotive systems, basic repair techniques, and usually a high school diploma or vocational training in auto repair. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and sometimes ASE certification are important for performing standard maintenance and troubleshooting. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with both customers and team members are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate repairs, customer satisfaction, and a solid foundation for career advancement in the automotive industry.

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

Entry level car mechanics often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of an automotive repair shop and mastering the use of various diagnostic tools. Learning to accurately identify issues and perform repairs under supervision requires strong attention to detail and a willingness to ask questions. Additionally, balancing multiple tasks while maintaining safety and quality standards is crucial. Many new mechanics also find it helpful to seek mentorship from experienced technicians to build confidence and technical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Car Mechanic vs Automotive Technician?

AspectEntry Level Car MechanicAutomotive Technician
CertificationsBasic ASE certifications, on-the-job trainingASE certifications, manufacturer-specific training
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centersAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centers
Job ResponsibilitiesBasic repairs, maintenance, diagnosticsAdvanced diagnostics, complex repairs, system testing

Both roles involve working in auto repair environments and require similar certifications. However, automotive technicians typically perform more complex diagnostics and repairs, often with additional manufacturer-specific training. Entry level car mechanics focus on basic maintenance and repairs, serving as a foundation for career growth in automotive service.

What does an entry level car mechanic do?

An entry level car mechanic assists with basic automotive maintenance and repair tasks, such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and replacing simple parts. They typically work under the supervision of experienced mechanics while gaining hands-on experience and learning diagnostic procedures. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in automotive repair, as it provides foundational skills and knowledge needed to advance to more complex work in the field.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Car Mechanic jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Car Mechanic jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Car Mechanic jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Car Mechanic job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Car Mechanic job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,476 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Car Detailer

Car Detailer

Carvana

Riverside, CA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Carvana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 722 rated retailers


Job description

We're looking for entry-level Lot Attendants to build an exciting career at Carvana - the fastest-growing used automotive retailer in U.S. history and one of the four fastest companies to make the Fortune 500! As a Lot Attendant, you will be focused on maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the vehicles at our Market Hubs. As part of this role, you will be expected to coordinate with fellow employees to ensure timely deliveries and the highest level of customer satisfaction. Interested in joining the team? Check out more below:

  • This is a part-time position
  • PTO and paid holidays + your birthday is a holiday

Unlock Your Earning Potential!

We offer a competitive starting hourly rate of $19/hr with significant growth opportunities based on performance. You can boost your earnings within a short timeframe:

  • Pay Range: $19-$20 hourly
  • Starting Pay: $19/hr
  • At 3 Months: $19.25/hr
  • At 6 Months: $19.50/hr
  • At 9 Months: $19.75/hr
  • At 12 Months: $20/hr

In your first year, you can progress from $19hr to $20hr through our performance-based Careers Not Jobs program, which provides four merit opportunities annually. Through this program, eligible team members can enjoy an additional $0.25 increase in their pay every 90 days. 

We're looking for enthusiastic, energetic, and self-motivated team players to:

  • Ensure each vehicle is inspected for mechanical, drivability or cosmetic concerns
  • Wash and vacuum all inventory on a regular basis
  • Complete multi-point inspection on arriving inventory to include fuel level, safety features, drivability test and proper display of all company and state disclosures
  • Maintain positive relationships with coworkers and external vendors
  • Interact and communicate with team members and management across all lines of the business.
  • Must adhere to regular and predictable attendance. 

General qualifications and requirements 

  • High School Diploma or equivalent is desirable
  • Must be 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license
  • Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record for the past 3 years
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds independently; majority of lifting from knee to shoulder heights; other lifting required from various levels.
  • Must be able to carry and transport up to 60 pounds up to 20 feet.
  • Requires standing for an extended period of time with frequent stretching, reaching, walking and stooping, pushing and/or pulling in an environment that may be cold, hot, noisy, and wet and may have fumes or odors due to vehicle maintenance.
  • Requires working outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Requires excellent visual acuity and manual dexterity.
  • Requires use of safety equipment that may include but not limited to face shield or goggles, non-slip shoes, gloves, mask, and other protective garments and equipment.
  • Requires frequent driving and some typing.
  • Must adhere to regular and predictable attendance.

About Carvana

At Carvana, we sell cars but we aren't car salesmen. Our promise is simple: we won't sell a car to a customer that we wouldn't sell to our own Mom. Period. 

Being a brand ambassador of Carvana means having a passion for our vision and having a motor that never quits when it comes to representing our brand and values. Our Market Operations team members work as a team to deliver awesome customer experiences in their markets, while also remaining agile enough to keep up with the ever-changing beat and cadence of your daily activities.

Think you've got what it takes to join our team? Apply today!

Carvana is an equal employment opportunity employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Carvana also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Hiring is contingent on passing a complete background check. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license. Must be able to read, write, speak and understand English.


What Carvana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Carvana logo

About Carvana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Carvana, we sell cars, but we're not salespeople. Since 2013, we've been making it our mission to change the way people buy cars. We saw a huge problem with how much it can suck to buy a car the traditional way, so we committed ourselves to tackling one of the largest, yet-to-be-disrupted markets in the world - the $1T per year U.S. car market (yes, that's $Trillion with a "T").

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tempe, AZ, US

Year founded

2011