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Mechanic Apprentice Jobs in Cherokee, IA (NOW HIRING)

KW Electric

Electrician Helper/Apprentice

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

We are currently hiring for Electrician Helper/Apprentice at our Storm Lake location. We are looking for candidates who are innovative, self-motivated, and interested in working towards their ...

U.S. Navy

Computer Field Technician

Le Mars, IA

$18 - $21.75/hr

... mechanical faults using technical documentation, test equipment, and established procedures ... Pathways, Training & Advancement Recruit Training followed by Apprentice Technical Training at ...

U.S. Navy

Electronics Technician

Le Mars, IA

... mechanical faults using technical documentation, test equipment, and established procedures ... Pathways, Training & Advancement Recruit Training followed by Apprentice Technical Training at ...

U.S. Navy

Fire Controlman

Orange City, IA

... mechanical faults using technical documentation, test equipment, and established procedures ... Pathways, Training & Advancement Recruit Training followed by Apprentice Technical Training at ...

U.S. Navy

Advanced Electronics

Alta, IA

... mechanical faults using technical documentation, test equipment, and established procedures ... Pathways, Training & Advancement Recruit Training followed by Apprentice Technical Training at ...

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All JobsMechanic Apprentice JobsMechanic Apprentice Jobs in Cherokee, IA

Mechanic Apprentice information

See Cherokee, IA salary details

$11

$21

$36

How much do mechanic apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanic apprentice in Cherokee, IA is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanic apprentice?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanic apprentice?

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.

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 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.

How to get into a mechanic apprentice ship?

To enter a mechanic apprenticeship, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and a valid driver's license. Many programs require passing a skills assessment and may prefer candidates with some related coursework or experience; apprentices usually work under supervision while gaining hands-on training and may pursue certifications like ASE during the program.

What cities near Cherokee, IA are hiring for Mechanic Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Cherokee, IA with the most Mechanic Apprentice job openings:

Mechanic Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanic Apprentice job openings in Cherokee, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,818 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Diesel Technician Apprenticeship (Military Veterans)

Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP)

Cherokee, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Ascendance Isuzu Trucks of Cherokee, Iowa, is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Isuzu Service Technician.

This opportunity is part of the Isuzu Veterans Apprenticeship Program (IVAP), a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill-approved Registered Apprenticeship program designed to help qualified Veterans transition into the commercial truck industry. Through IVAP, participants may gain hands-on dealership experience while working toward successful completion of apprenticeship and certification requirements.

IVAP connects qualified applicants with participating Isuzu dealerships seeking skilled technical talent. Qualified applicants receive recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and guidance through the Registered Apprenticeship and GI Bill benefits process, where eligible.

What You Will Do

As an Isuzu Service Technician Apprentice, you may support dealership service operations by assisting with the inspection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of Isuzu commercial vehicles. This may include working alongside dealership service teams, participating in on-the-job learning, and completing program-related apprenticeship requirements.

Ideal candidates may have experience in one or more of the following areas:

Wheeled vehicle maintenance
Diesel mechanics
Heavy equipment maintenance
Automotive repair
Aircraft maintenance
Generator maintenance
Fleet maintenance
Military maintenance supervision

Requirements

Transitioning Service Member or U.S. Military Veteran status
3-5 years of military or civilian technician work experience
Honorable military discharge or Commander's Statement of Service
Hands-on experience with diesel, automotive, heavy equipment, aircraft, generator, fleet maintenance, or related mechanical systems
Ability to provide work references
Clean driving record, as attested by the applicant
Ability to complete the IVAP technical assessment
Ability to pass applicable dealership background, driving record, or drug screening requirements

Preferred qualifications include:

Diesel engine maintenance or repair experience
Experience with commercial trucks, fleet vehicles, or heavy equipment
Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand tools, and shop equipment
Experience working with electrical, braking, suspension, HVAC, or driveline systems
ASE certifications, technical school training, or military maintenance training
Strong troubleshooting, communication, and teamwork skills

Benefits

Isuzu IVAP Apprenticeship Highlights

Potential full-time employment with a participating Isuzu dealership
Program designed specifically to support Transitioning Service Members and U.S. Military Veterans
Participation in a U.S. Department of Labor and GI Bill-approved Registered Apprenticeship program, where eligible
Eligible Veterans may apply for and receive GI Bill benefits during the apprenticeship, where eligible
Access to tools, equipment, vehicles, and training needed to complete apprenticeship and certification requirements, as provided through the participating dealership and IVAP program structure
Opportunity to apply military mechanical experience toward a civilian Isuzu Service Technician career
Recruiting support, technical screening, dealership referral assistance, and apprenticeship process guidance

Hiring decisions, wages, employee benefits, employment offers, and employment conditions are determined by the participating Isuzu dealership. Applicants are applying for employment with a participating Isuzu dealership and not with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. or Educational Resource Systems, Inc.

GI Bill is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Use of the term does not imply endorsement, affiliation, or approval by VA.

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