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Smog Check Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Pomona, CA · On-site

$25.09 - $48.58/hr

Vehicle Maintenance Technician Job ID: VEHIC014013 Job Title: Vehicle Maintenance Technician ... Smog Check Mechanic's Certificate at the time of appointment. License must be kept current.* • ...

Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Pomona, CA · On-site

$25.09 - $48.58/hr

Vehicle Maintenance Technician Job ID: VEHIC014013 Job Title: Vehicle Maintenance Technician ... Must possess a valid License Smog Check Mechanic's Certificate at the time of appointment. License ...

Smog Repair Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$50K - $90K/yr

Check engine light * Mufflers and exhaust services * Visual safety and courtesy inspections ... Must have Smog Repair License * Knowledge in automotive brakes, exhaust, suspension, & engine ...

Be Seen First

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000+ Potential | Established High-Tech ... We specialize in check engine light diagnostics & drivability issues * We handle failing smog ...

Be Seen First

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000+ Potential | Established High-Tech ... We specialize in check engine light diagnostics & drivability issues * We handle failing smog ...

Smog Check Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$23

$34

How much do smog check technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for smog check technician in Riverside, CA is $23.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Smog Check Technician vs Emissions Inspector?

AspectSmog Check TechnicianEmissions Inspector
CertificationsRequires state-specific smog check certificationRequires emissions testing certification, often overlapping with smog check certs
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in automotive repair shops or testing stationsOperates at testing facilities, government sites, or inspection stations
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automotive service centers and testing stationsPrimarily employed by government agencies or contracted testing facilities

Both roles involve vehicle emissions testing, with overlapping certifications and work environments. A Smog Check Technician focuses on performing emissions tests to ensure vehicles meet state standards, often working in private automotive shops. An Emissions Inspector may have a broader role, including regulatory oversight and testing at official inspection stations. The two roles are closely related, with many professionals holding certifications for both, depending on state requirements.

How do I become a smog check technician?

To become a smog check technician in California, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass a written exam, and obtain a license from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. Technicians also need to stay current with certification renewals and may be required to have a valid driver's license and work in a licensed smog check station.

How much do smog check technicians make?

In California, smog check technicians typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, certification, and the employer's location and size.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a smog check technician?

To thrive as a Smog Check Technician, you need a solid understanding of automotive emissions systems, diagnostic procedures, and relevant state certification or licensure. Familiarity with emissions testing equipment, diagnostic scanners, and state reporting systems is crucial. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective customer communication set top technicians apart. These skills ensure accurate emissions testing, regulatory compliance, and positive customer experiences.

What are common challenges faced by smog check technicians during vehicle inspections?

Smog Check Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing vehicles with intermittent emissions issues, dealing with complex or older engine systems, and staying up-to-date with changing state regulations. Additionally, some vehicles may not pass the initial inspection due to faulty components, requiring the technician to clearly explain the results and necessary repairs to customers. Strong attention to detail and effective communication skills are essential for success in this role.

What is a smog check technician?

Smog Check Technicians are professionals trained and certified to inspect vehicles for compliance with state and local emissions standards. They use specialized equipment to test the amount of pollutants a vehicle emits, ensuring vehicles meet environmental regulations before they are registered or re-registered. In addition to performing tests, smog check technicians may also perform minor repairs to help vehicles pass the inspection. Their work helps reduce air pollution and ensures vehicles are operating efficiently. Becoming a smog check technician typically requires specific training and certification, depending on state requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Smog Check Technician jobs in Riverside, CA? For Smog Check Technician jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Smog Check Technician jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Smog Check Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Smog Check Technician jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Smog Check Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Smog Check Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,872 per year, or $23 per hour.

Smog Technician Trainee

DEKRA SERVICES INC

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

This position is posted on a continuous basis and does not have a fixed application close date. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.

A Day in the Life and the Impact You’ll Make:

The Smog Technician Trainee is responsible for assisting a licensed inspector to perform applicable tests and inspections according to local regulations and the DEKRA standard. This individual's primary responsibilities include managing cash, delivering services with exceptional customer service, and maintaining the property, grounds, and equipment. During your employment as a Smog Inspector Trainee, you will need to enroll in a BAR Smog Inspector-approved course (DEKRA Sponsored) and be able to successfully complete the course to become a certified inspector.

What You'll Do:

  • Contribute to a safe and healthy work environment by actively participating, taking responsibility, and following established procedures and policies.
  • Learn while assisting to perform state-specific tests and inspections according to the California BAR regulations and the DEKRA standard.
  • Perform product sales and services, including registration services.
  • Deliver all services and address all customers with exceptional customer service.
  • Answer telephone calls and assist customers by answering any questions and/or addressing any concerns.
  • Effectively manage cash and non-cash payment received. This includes daily reconciliation of all payments received and completing bank deposits.
  • Maintain the property, grounds, and equipment at the station.
  • Complete the required tasks outlined in the daily checklists at your station.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support business needs.
  • Always maintain a professional appearance and demeanor, adhering to the DEKRA standard.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What Makes a Great Candidate:

  • An interest in the automotive field and a desire to learn the ins and outs of a Smog Inspector position.
  • 1-2 years of automotive retail, preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Committed to excellent customer service.
  • Ability to manage cash and noncash payments.
  • Ability to pass a DOJ background check to perform DMV Registration Services

Physical Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to fifty (50) pounds.
  • While on the job, employees must be able to walk, stand, bend, stoop, twist, etc for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions.
  • Requires use of hands to perform activities involving holding, grasping, pulling, and turning.

Travel Considerations:

  • No travel is required for this position

What You’ll Receive for the Value You Bring:

Compensation:

The base pay for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/hour. Actual pay is based on several factors including market location and position-related knowledge, skills, and experience. This position is also eligible for commission.

Benefits:

DEKRA North America strives to provide a competitive benefits package to colleagues and promotes physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Colleagues can self-select from our benefits to create a package unique to their needs. These benefits include access to competitive health care and retirement benefits, paid time off, mental health well-being resources, and opportunities to learn and develop. Below is a list of benefits we offer our colleagues:

Health & Well-being Benefits:

  • Health care benefits: medical & prescription, dental, vision (including Domestic Partners)
  • Critical Illness & Hospital Indemnity supplemental insurance
  • Company Health Savings Account contribution
  • Flexible Spending Account for eligible health care and dependent care expenses
  • Paid time off such as vacation, sick leave, and floating holidays
  • Mental and emotional support resources through our Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program to increase activity and health habits, with ability to earn participation rewards
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Travel Assist (Domestic/International)

Financial Benefits:

  • Participation in a 401(k) plan, with an employer match
  • Company paid Short- & Long-Term Disability benefits
  • Group term life insurance with options to buy-up for self and others
  • Working Advantage – DEKRA’s official corporate discount program

Growth and Development Benefits:

  • Education Assistance Program
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance
  • Internal training and development resources to grow your career
  • LEAD Forward Leadership Development Program
  • Annual Career Goal Setting and Performance Review cycle participation

This list provides an overview of benefits provided for US-based colleagues; the DEKRA North America Employee Benefits Guide outlines plan details and further related eligibility requirements.

Additional Position Details:

  • Reports to: State Supervisor
  • Work Model: On-site
  • Work Location: DEKRA Smog City, 23071 Antonio Pkwy, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
  • Supervises Others: No
  • Status: Full-time, Regular
  • FLSA Classification: Non-exempt

About Us:

As a global provider of comprehensive services and solutions, we help our customers improve their safety, security, and sustainability outcomes. DEKRA is the world’s leading testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) companies offering innovative professional services in the fields of vehicle inspection, expert appraisals, industrial product testing & certification, management system certifications, leadership consulting, and much more. DEKRA is a purpose-driven organization with a deep passion to make the world a safer place on the road, at work, and at home. In DEKRA, you will be part of a continuously growing organization with a near 100-year history involved in more than 50 countries on five continents.

We hope you’ll consider a career with DEKRA North America as we strive to become the Global Partner for a Safe World!

DEKRA North America is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

DEKRA North America is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment, please call +1 (770) 971-3788. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

DEKRA North America will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay.

DEKRA North America participates in the E-Verify program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.