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Smog Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carmax

SMOG Emissions Tech

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$29.90/hr

7281 - Bakersfield - 6801 Colony Street, Bakersfield, California, 93307 CarMax, the way your career should be! Position Overview As a Mechanical Associate, you'll play a vital role in ensuring every ...

Constellis

Light Tech III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Light Tech III will be responsible with performing vehicle maintenance ... Perform Smog test and repairs in accordance with California BAR specifications. * Perform ...

123 Car Buying

Be Seen First

Lead Diagnostic Technician

Upland, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Our shop provides the tools, technology, and resources needed for exceptional technicians to do ... Imad Company Description 123 Car Buying, Auto Repair, and Smog Center is a full-service automotive ...

Constellis

Light Tech III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Light Tech III will be responsible with performing vehicle maintenance ... Perform Smog test and repairs in accordance with California BAR specifications. * Perform ...

123 Car Buying

Be Seen First

Lead Diagnostic Technician

Upland, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Our shop provides the tools, technology, and resources needed for exceptional technicians to do ... Imad Company Description 123 Car Buying, Auto Repair, and Smog Center is a full-service automotive ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

This full-time Auto Diagnostic Tech position offers a competitive hourly pay of $26 - $40/hour . We ... Smog check or emissions diagnostic experience * Strong drivability diagnostic knowledge (misfires ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

This full-time Auto Diagnostic Tech position offers a competitive hourly pay of $26 - $40/hour.We ... Smog check or emissions diagnostic experienceStrong drivability diagnostic knowledge (misfires ...

Prestige Auto Works

Auto Diagnostic Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

This full-time Auto Diagnostic Tech position offers a competitive hourly pay of $26 - $40/hour . We ... Smog check or emissions diagnostic experience * Strong drivability diagnostic knowledge (misfires ...

Chula Vista Honda

Service Technician

Chula Vista, CA

Smog License is Valuable * Prefer Certified with Dealership service department experience. * Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record * Experience with the latest automotive technologies ...

Chula Vista Honda

Service Technician

Chula Vista, CA

Smog License is Valuable * Prefer Certified with Dealership service department experience. * Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record * Experience with the latest automotive technologies ...

Chula Vista Honda

Service Technician

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

Smog License is Valuable * Prefer Certified with Dealership service department experience. * Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record * Experience with the latest automotive technologies ...

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Smog Tech information

See California salary details

$13

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$32

How much do smog tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for smog tech in California is $21.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a smog tech?

Smog Techs, also known as Smog Technicians or Smog Check Technicians, are professionals who inspect and test vehicles to ensure they meet state emissions standards. They use specialized equipment to measure the emissions coming from a vehicle's exhaust and verify that it complies with environmental regulations. Smog Techs are typically certified by the state and may work at automotive repair shops, dedicated smog check stations, or dealerships. Their work helps reduce air pollution and keeps vehicles operating efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a smog tech?

To thrive as a Smog Tech, you need a solid understanding of automotive emissions systems, diagnostic testing procedures, and typically must have state-specific certification or licensure. Familiarity with emissions testing equipment, diagnostic scanners, and relevant software is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and clear communication with customers are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate emissions testing, regulatory compliance, and quality customer service in the automotive industry.

What are some common challenges smog technicians face during emissions testing, and how can they address them?

Smog Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex emission failures, keeping up with changing state regulations, and managing high volumes of vehicles during peak inspection periods. Staying current with ongoing training and certifications is essential, as is developing strong troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and electronic systems. Effective communication with customers and teamwork with other shop employees also help ensure smooth operations and accurate test results.

What is the difference between Smog Tech vs Emissions Inspector?

AspectSmog TechEmissions Inspector
CertificationsRequires state-specific smog check certificationRequires emissions inspection certification
Work EnvironmentPerforms vehicle emissions testing at repair shops or testing centersInspects vehicles for emissions compliance at testing facilities or DMV offices
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automotive repair and testing facilitiesOften employed by government agencies or third-party testing stations

Both Smog Techs and Emissions Inspectors perform vehicle emissions testing, but Smog Techs often repair and diagnose issues, while Emissions Inspectors focus solely on testing and certification. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly within the vehicle emissions industry.

How much does a smog tech make?

A smog technician in California typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Experienced techs with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher wages, especially in busy automotive repair shops or dealerships.

How to become a smog tech in CA?

To become a smog technician in California, you must complete a state-approved training program, pass a written exam, and obtain a smog check technician license from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. Additionally, ongoing education and renewal of the license are required to maintain certification and stay current with regulations.

How to become a smog tech in Nevada?

To become a smog technician in Nevada, you must complete state-approved training and pass a certification exam administered by the Nevada DMV or a recognized certifying organization. Additionally, you may need to obtain a license or registration to perform emissions testing legally and stay current with ongoing training requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Smog Tech jobs in California?

For Smog Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Smog Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Smog Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Smog Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Smog Tech job openings:

Smog Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Smog Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,286 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

SMOG Emissions Tech

Carmax

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$29.90/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 373 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 738 rated retailers

Job description

7281 - Bakersfield - 6801 Colony Street, Bakersfield, California, 93307

CarMax, the way your career should be!

Position Overview

As a Mechanical Associate, you'll play a vital role in ensuring every vehicle meets CarMax's standards for safety, reliability, and performance. At CarMax, we don't just repair cars-we restore confidence for our customers. You'll use your expertise to inspect and/or diagnose, repair, and recondition vehicles, from engines and brakes to steering and suspension systems.

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing training, advanced tools, and a collaborative environment that helps you thrive.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation's largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We're rethinking the way people buy cars - and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you're advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Inspect, diagnose, and repair vehicles to meet CarMax's high standards for quality and safety

  • Collaborate with a skilled team to solve technical challenges quickly and effectively

  • Gain hands-on experience across domestic and foreign vehicles

  • Uphold CarMax's commitment to customer satisfaction and trust

  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Experience in engine repair, steering and suspension, brakes, and HVAC systems, based on the needs of the role

  • Strong understanding of health and safety compliance

  • Ability to lift heavy objects and work on your feet for extended periods

  • Skilled at managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting

  • Excellent communication skills and attention to detail

  • Valid driver's license

  • Where required by State/Local law, maintain ASE Certifications in Steering and Suspension (A4), Brakes (A5), Heating Air Conditioning (A7), Electrical (A6), Engine Repair (A1), Manual Drive Train and Axles (A3), Engine Performance (A8), and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2)

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation's largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change-sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what's next. Join us in creating a better future- for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$29.90 - $29.90

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commission/incentive eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company.
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday. If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay.

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval.

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.

What CarMax employees say

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Benefits

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About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US

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