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Mechanic Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

Mechanic's Helper

Cerritos, CA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

PTO, Medical, Vision and Dental Care Benefits If you're a Mechanic or a Mechanic's Apprentice looking for growth with a company that will help you perfect your craft and continue to invest in you ...

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Mechanic Apprentice information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do mechanic apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanic apprentice in California is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mechanic Apprentice vs Automotive Technician?

AspectMechanic ApprenticeAutomotive Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, some may pursue certifications like ASEHigh school diploma; ASE certifications often required
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasks, entry-levelFull-time, independent repair work in garages or dealerships
Industry UsageTraining stage within automotive repair industryProfessional, fully qualified repair role

Mechanic Apprentices are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Automotive Technicians are fully qualified professionals performing repairs independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as an Automotive Technician.

Is 27 too old to become a mechanic?

There is no age limit to becoming a mechanic apprentice, and many programs welcome individuals of various ages. Success depends on your skills, willingness to learn, and completing required training or certifications, regardless of age.

How to become a mechanic apprentice with no experience?

To become a mechanic apprentice with no experience, you should focus on gaining basic mechanical knowledge through courses or self-study, and look for entry-level apprenticeship programs offered by auto repair shops or dealerships. Many programs accept candidates without prior experience and provide on-the-job training while sometimes requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Developing skills in tools, safety procedures, and basic vehicle maintenance can improve your chances of securing an apprenticeship.

What are some common challenges a Mechanic Apprentice might face during their training period?

As a Mechanic Apprentice, one of the most common challenges is adapting to the fast-paced environment while learning a wide range of technical tasks. Apprentices often need to quickly grasp diagnostic procedures, use specialized tools, and understand complex vehicle systems, all while ensuring safety and quality. Balancing hands-on learning with studying for certification exams can also be demanding. However, supportive mentors and structured training programs help apprentices overcome these hurdles and build confidence in their skills.

What are mechanic apprentices?

Mechanic apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of automotive repair and maintenance under the supervision of experienced mechanics. They typically work in repair shops or dealerships, where they assist with tasks such as oil changes, brake repairs, and diagnostics while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeships usually combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to become fully qualified mechanics. This entry-level role is an essential first step for those pursuing a career as an automotive technician.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for a mechanic apprentice, and individuals of all ages can pursue apprenticeships to gain skills and experience. Employers often value maturity and life experience, making 27 a common age for starting an apprenticeship in the automotive or mechanical fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanic Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanic Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and sometimes entry-level certifications like ASE Student Certification are valuable. Strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and good communication skills help you excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities are essential for safely performing repairs, supporting experienced technicians, and building a solid foundation for a future career in automotive repair.

Can you get an apprenticeship in mechanics?

Yes, aspiring mechanics can pursue apprenticeships through vocational schools, community colleges, or directly with automotive repair shops. These programs typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and often lead to certification or licensing in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanic jobs in California? The most popular types of Mechanic jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanic Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanic Apprentice jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mechanic Apprentice jobs? Cities in California with the most Mechanic Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanic Apprentice job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,206 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Mechanic Apprentice

$22.41/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

General Position Summary & Responsibilities:
The Mechanic Apprentice reports to the Maintenance Supervisor, Manager, or the Shredder Operations Supervisor or Manager. The Mechanic Apprentice is responsible for the lubricating machinery, perform preventive maintenance services on mobile and heavy equipment as well as stationary equipment, changing parts, or performing other routine machinery maintenance while ensuring that all his/her efforts are compliant with the company Health, Safety, and Environmental standards. The Mechanic Apprentice must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of the arms and legs, while climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
This position operates under flexible parameters. The primary goal of this position is to achieve excellence in all facets of the position. Providing the highest quality product safely, effectively, and efficiently decreases accidents and errors and increase profits.
Essential Functions
  • Environmental and Health & Safety (H&S)
    1. Strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
    2. Provides a safe environment for all employees, customers, and visitors.
  • Operational Performance & Best Business Practices
    1. Lubricate inspect and perform preventive maintenance tasks on heavy equipment and stationary shredder mill machinery.
    2. Complete required documentation associated with the installation, replacement, or changing of machine parts and attachments.
    3. Read work orders and specifications to determine machines and equipment requiring repair or maintenance.
    4. Operation of a fueling truck may be required when fueling equipment.
    5. Provide backup or assistance throughout the yard as needed or assigned.
  • Equipment & Maintenance
    1. Assist with routine maintenance on equipment and determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
    2. Report all equipment deficiencies or malfunctions for maintenance or repair to the proper supervisor.

Specific Other Responsibilities (Regional, by Location, Compliance):
Within this section and upon the hire or placement of an individual, the Direct Manager will include, if applicable, any additional Essential Functions specific to the region. If necessary, the writer can exclude a specific Essential Function that would not be expected to be performed.
Internal Control Responsibilities
Supports the Company's Internal Control process which includes understanding, communicating, and complying with defined internal controls as well as suggesting and making modifications to the policies, procedures, and controls to better relate to the business.
Communicates upward problems in operations, noncompliance with the code of conduct, or other policy violations or illegal actions.
Interpersonal Contacts
Direct contact with Maintenance-Fixed Supervisor, Maintenance-Mobile Supervisor, or Shredder Operations Supervisor, and operations production supervisors and employees. Communication via face-to-face interaction required daily.
Job Conditions
This position is regularly exposed to all weather conditions. Physical hazards such as noise, fumes, and dirt are present due to the equipment, machinery, and scrap as would be found throughout the scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, face shields, and additional personal protective equipment as needed, must be worn to eliminate the risks associated with these hazards.
Handling multiple issues regarding safety and maintenance increases pressure. Workload may be unpredictable, and pressure can be substantial during peak times. Critical deadlines require considerable adaptability. Disturbances of workflow and/or irregularities in work schedule are expected and occur on an intermittent basis. Extra hours may be required, sometimes on weekends, weekdays, and holidays.
Physical Activities Required to Perform Essential Functions
Ability to: lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally; crouch or bend at the knees frequently when sorting or picking to increase visibility; climbing to reach work site occasionally; stoop or bend at the waist frequently to increase visibility; reach at arms length frequently or overhead frequently; twist and turn at the neck and trunk frequently; walk frequently on uneven ground; handle and grasp materials and tools continually; push and pull frequently when cleaning; communicate by speech and hearing continually. Visual acuity needed for close detail work. Mental dexterity needed as Mechanic Apprentice will work independently while demonstrating attention to detail and continuous awareness.
Qualifications
Candidates must have the ability to carry out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagrammatic form. Ability to speak and understand English as a basic level required. Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required. Experience in a scrap yard preferred. Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance desired.
PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
All U.S. applicants must be 18 years of age or older and all Canada applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
Radius Recycling participates in e-verify for all U.S. new hires.
An offer of U.S. employment by Radius Recycling or any of its subsidiaries is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen and background check and credit check (if position specified).
All new hires must review and sign an Arbitration Agreement. This applies to all U.S. non-union employees.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Radius Recycling does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state or federal law.
Company Schnitzer Southeast LLC
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.