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Smog Check Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

123 Car Buying

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Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000

Upland, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Smog check or emissions diagnostic experience * Strong drivability diagnostic knowledge (misfires, fuel trims, EVAP, boost control, intermittent faults) * Ability to use lab scopes, graphing scan ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Advanced electrical diagnostics experience (CAN/LIN networks, parasitic draws, module communication faults)Experience with European vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, Jaguar, etc.)Smog check or ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Smog check or emissions diagnostic experience * Strong drivability diagnostic knowledge (misfires, fuel trims, EVAP, boost control, intermittent faults) * Ability to use lab scopes, graphing scan ...

Master Automotive Centers

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Auto Technician / Automotive Mechanic

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Master Automotive Centers - Complete Auto Repair Auto Technician - Full time About Us: * We care ... Check Engine Light Diagnostics * Clutches * Fuel Injection Service * Smog Repair * Website: www.

Master Automotive Centers

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Auto Technician / Automotive Mechanic

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Master Automotive Centers - Complete Auto Repair Auto Technician - Full time About Us: * We care ... Check Engine Light Diagnostics * Clutches * Fuel Injection Service * Smog Repair * Website: www.

Microprecision

Maintenance Technician 1

Delavan, WI · On-site

Maintenance Technician 1 DESCRIPTION DATE: Dec 2025 POSITION PURPOSE: Under the direction of the ... smog hog, air compressor, machines * Perform machine coolant changes: clean, refill, check ...

MicroPrecision

Maintenance Technician 1

Delavan, WI · On-site

Description: Maintenance Technician 1 DESCRIPTION DATE: Dec 2025 POSITION PURPOSE: Under the ... smog hog, air compressor, machines * Perform machine coolant changes: clean, refill, check ...

Avondale Toyota

Service Technician

Avondale, AZ

Obtain and maintain Toyota technician certification and any ASE's and/or smog licenses as required for your skill level * Run every customer VIN in Dealer Daily Service Lane to check for open recalls ...

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Smog Check Technician information

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How much do smog check technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for smog check technician in the United States is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are also required to complete ongoing training to maintain their certification and stay current with regulations and testing procedures.

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, and technicians often need to be certified by the state to perform inspections.

How to become a smog check technician?

To become a smog check technician, you must complete a state-approved training program and obtain a license or certification as required by local regulations. Typically, this involves passing a written exam and gaining practical experience with emissions testing equipment. Continuing education may be necessary to maintain certification and stay updated on testing standards.

What cities are hiring for Smog Check Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Smog Check Technician job openings:

What states have the most Smog Check Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Smog Check Technician jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Smog Check Technician jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Smog Check Technician jobs are:

Smog Check Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Smog Check Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,887 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000

123 Car Buying

Upland, CA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician

$80,000 – $120,000+ Potential | Established High-Tech Shop

Tired of working at a shop where you’re stuck doing oil changes and brakes all day?

At 123 Auto Center in Upland, we focus on real diagnostic work—the kind that actually challenges your skills and experience.

We are looking for a strong diagnostic technician who enjoys solving problems, not just replacing parts.

What Makes Our Shop Different

  • We specialize in check engine light diagnostics & drivability issues
  • We handle failing smog vehicles that other shops can’t fix
  • We perform engine & transmission replacements when needed
  • We use modern scan tools and diagnostic equipment
  • We have a steady flow of higher-level work (not just maintenance)

If you enjoy figuring out the “hard problems,” you’ll fit right in here.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Diagnose check engine lights and drivability concerns
  • Perform advanced electrical and system diagnostics
  • Troubleshoot vehicles failing smog/emissions tests
  • Use modern diagnostic tools and data systems
  • Perform major repairs when required (engine/transmission)

This Job Is NOT For You If:

  • You only want to do basic maintenance (oil changes, brakes, etc.)
  • You are not comfortable with diagnostics
  • You prefer being told what parts to replace instead of diagnosing

✅ This Job IS For You If:

  • You enjoy solving complex vehicle problems
  • You take pride in accurate diagnostics
  • You want to grow your skills and work on challenging jobs
  • You’re tired of working in disorganized or under-equipped shops

Compensation

  • $35 – $55 per hour (based on experience & skill level)
  • $80,000 – $120,000+ yearly potential
  • Consistent workflow = consistent income

Why Technicians Like Working Here

  • Established shop (10+ years in business)
  • Clean, organized work environment
  • Strong team with real experience
  • Modern diagnostic tools & equipment
  • No dealership politics
  • Work that actually uses your brain

‍ Message from the Owner

I’ve been in this industry for over 25 years and understand how frustrating it can be to work in shops that don’t support their technicians.

At our shop, we focus on giving our technicians the tools, time, and type of work they need to succeed—especially when it comes to diagnostics.

If you’re a technician who takes pride in solving problems, I’d like to meet you.

— Imad

Company Description

123 Car Buying, Auto Repair, and Smog Center is a full-service automotive dealership and repair facility dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality vehicle care. Founded in 2013 and backed by more than 25 years of industry experience, the company offers automotive sales, diagnostics, maintenance, repair, and smog inspection services under one roof. Their customer-first approach emphasizes honest communication, efficient same-day diagnostics, and a comfortable service experience with amenities such as complimentary coffee, Wi-Fi, and convenient vehicle drop-off. By combining experienced technicians, modern diagnostic capabilities, and a commitment to excellence, 123 Car Buying, Auto Repair, and Smog Center has built a reputation as a trusted destination for both automotive sales and service.