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Exhaust Emissions Inspector Jobs in Rochester, NY

Exhaust Emissions Inspector information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$14

$19

$25

How much do exhaust emissions inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for exhaust emissions inspector in Rochester, NY is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an exhaust emissions inspector do?

An Exhaust Emissions Inspector is responsible for testing and evaluating the emissions output of vehicles to ensure they meet environmental standards and regulations. They use specialized equipment to measure pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides emitted from vehicle exhaust systems. Inspectors document the results, issue certifications or recommend repairs if vehicles fail to meet the required standards, and help ensure public health and air quality by enforcing emission laws.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exhaust emissions inspector?

To thrive as an Exhaust Emissions Inspector, you need knowledge of automotive systems, emissions standards, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with any required state certifications. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, emissions testing equipment, and data entry systems is crucial. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong communication skills help inspectors ensure compliance and explain results to customers. These abilities are essential for accurate inspections, regulatory compliance, and maintaining public trust in environmental standards.

What are the most common challenges faced by exhaust emissions inspectors during vehicle inspections?

Exhaust Emissions Inspectors often face challenges such as keeping up with evolving emissions standards, dealing with vehicles that have complex or modified exhaust systems, and managing time efficiently during busy inspection periods. Inspectors must also ensure accuracy in testing and documentation while communicating effectively with vehicle owners about results and required repairs. Staying updated on new testing equipment and maintaining a high level of attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Exhaust Emissions Inspector vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectExhaust Emissions InspectorVehicle Inspector
CertificationsEnvironmental or emissions testing certificationsVehicle safety and compliance certifications
Work EnvironmentTesting stations, outdoor emissions testing sitesInspection stations, vehicle repair shops
Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, transportation departmentsDMV, state transportation agencies
Primary FocusMeasuring and ensuring vehicle emissions meet standardsChecking vehicle safety, brakes, lights, and overall compliance

Exhaust Emissions Inspectors focus on testing vehicle emissions to ensure environmental standards are met, often working at testing facilities. Vehicle Inspectors perform comprehensive safety checks on vehicles to ensure roadworthiness. While both roles involve vehicle inspections, their primary responsibilities and certifications differ, with emissions inspectors emphasizing environmental compliance and vehicle inspectors focusing on safety standards.

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Exhaust Emissions Inspector jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Exhaust Emissions Inspector job openings:

Master Automotive Technician

Rochester, NY • On-site

$57K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


City Of Rochester (New York) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Description This is a skilled automotive mechanic position responsible for the repair and maintenance of modern small or medium sized automotive, construction, emergency, or ground equipment. Incumbents in this classification perform computerized equipment diagnosis, repair, on-board resurfacing, overhaul, replacement, preventative and corrective maintenance, safety and emissions inspections, and road testing of vehicles and related component and sub-component parts and assemblies. Work is performed on internal combustion gas, hybrid, diesel, or other alternative fueled engines as well as electrical and hydraulic motors.

Work is performed under the direction of a supervisor or manager within the Equipment Services Division. Related work is performed as required. CITY RESIDENCY WILL BE REQUIRED WITHIN ONE YEAR OF HIRE.

Typical Work Activities Performs general maintenance and skilled repairs on equipment such as automobiles, light and medium trucks, emergency vehicles, motorcycles, and other small transportation, automotive and construction type equipment and vehicles; Inspects equipment for worn, damaged, or defective parts using visual evaluation, road tests, specialized electronic testing equipment, or other computerized diagnostic techniques to determine needed repairs and vehicle performance; Disassembles, repairs, re-assembles and adjusts front and rear axle assemblies, main drive shafts, transfer cases, clutches, and transmissions; Rebuilds or replaces defective or damaged automotive subassemblies; Rebuilds internal combustion engines, transmissions, and front and rear drive units; Repairs, and if necessary, replaces steering mechanisms and aligns wheels; Adjusts, repairs, resurfaces and replaces brake system components; Repairs exhaust, ignition, fuel and electrical systems; Conducts New York State safety inspections on vehicles; Tests automotive computer systems using electronic equipment; Performs work associated with the commissioning and decommissioning of vehicles; Prepares and maintains manual and computerized records and logs associated with vehicle maintenance, repair, labor (both direct and in-direct), and parts and materials used; Performs emergency road repairs, off-site repairs, and provides mobile tow service; Operates vehicles to verify symptoms and isolate problems, before and after repair and maintenance, to assure proper functioning; Communicates with repair staff from different shifts regarding on-going repairs; Performs minor cutting & welding; Leads, directs, and trains other Mechanics or Auto Aides. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent, PLUS 1. AND 2.: 1

A. Associate's degree in automotive technology or closely related area, and two (2) years of experience as an automotive mechanic in a standard repair shop; OR 1. B.

Four (4) years of experience as described in IA. above. AND 2.

Possession of at least *four (4) of the following certifications issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE): A1 - Engine Repair A2 - Automotive Transmission/Transaxle A3 - Manual Drive Train and Axles A4 - Suspension and Steering A5 - Brakes A6 - Electrical / Electronic Systems A7 - Heating and Air Conditioning A8 - Engine Performance L1 - Advanced Engine Performance Specialist *Incumbent must maintain at least four (4) certifications throughout employment in this title. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid N.Y.S Class D Operator's license at time of appointment. Possession of a valid N.Y.S Non-CDL Class C License within six (6) months of appointment

This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this title. Possession of a N.Y.S Motor Vehicle Inspector's license (Group 1) within three (3) months of appointment. This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this title

Possession of N.Y.S. Tow Truck Endorsement within six (6) months of appointment. This endorsement must be maintained throughout employment in this title

Must provide proper selection of current tools and cabinet necessary to make repairs to light duty vehicles at time of appointment (i.e., socket set, open end wrenches, screwdrivers, metric tools, digital VOM, standard electronic type testing equipment, etc.).


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