1

Smog Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Smog - Lube Technician

Reno, NV ยท On-site

$14 - $19.25/hr

What Employees Love about Take 5 * The Pit Tech to President career path; Take 5 is committed to ... Need to have reliable transportation What does a Lube/Smog Technician do? * Drain motor oil, change ...

Automotive Technician

Santa Maria, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $40/hr

Competitive Compensation Job Summary Local family owned Smog Shop is currently looking for ... technology If you have a "never give up" attitude and are willing to problem-solve until you find ...

Automotive Technician

Santa Maria, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $40/hr

Competitive Compensation Job Summary Local family owned Smog Shop is currently looking for ... technology If you have a never give up attitude and are willing to problem-solve until you find the ...

Competitive Compensation Job Summary Local family owned Smog Shop is currently looking for ... technology If you have a "never give up" attitude and are willing to problem-solve until you find ...

SMOG Emissions Tech

Bakersfield, CA ยท 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 ...

SMOG Emissions Tech

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$29.90/hr

Utilize advanced tools and technology to deliver automotive service * Follow CarMax's standard guidelines for reconditioning and repair * Contribute to a positive, customer-focused environment ...

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 ...

Be Seen First

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000+ Potential | Established High-Tech ... We handle failing smog vehicles that other shops can't fix * We perform engine & transmission ...

Be Seen First

Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician $80,000 - $120,000+ Potential | Established High-Tech ... We handle failing smog vehicles that other shops can't fix * We perform engine & transmission ...

Light Tech III

Los Angeles, CA ยท 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 ...

Material Planner II

Walkersville, MD ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Drives efficient inventory utilization through SMOG analysis, safety stock optimization, and reduction of scrap and obsolescence, contributing to cost control and operational efficiency. * Daily MRP ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Smog Tech information

See salary details

$13

$22

$33

How much do smog tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for smog tech 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Smog Tech, and why are they important?

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 are Smog Techs?

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 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.

More about Smog Tech jobs
What cities are hiring for Smog Tech jobs? Cities with the most Smog Tech job openings:
What states have the most Smog Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Smog Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Smog Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Smog Tech jobs are:
Infographic showing various Smog Tech job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Locum Tenens, 6% Internship, 64% As Needed, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,887 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Smog - Lube Technician

WARNER GAMING

Reno, NV โ€ข On-site

$14 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

The Take 5 Family is hiring customer service maniacs!

People person? Outgoing and positive attitude? We will train you how to change oil, replace wiper blades/air filters, fill air in tires, and other light maintenance services. Our employees are successful with all backgrounds and experience levels. Take 5 offers a stay-in-your-car hassle free oil change experience. The job is similar to restaurants or retail environments.

What Employees Love about Take 5

  • The Pit Tech to President career path; Take 5 is committed to supporting your career goals. Over 90% of Shop Managers started as Lube Techs.
  • The family environment
  • Benefits/Pay information if applicable
  • Employee contests
  • Easy to transfer to locations across the country
  • Opportunity to meet new people every day
  • Community involvement
  • Learning new skills

Good to Know Before You Start!

  • It might feel like you are studying for a test at the beginning. Itโ€™s important that all employees gain a strong knowledge of our oils and services.
  • Must maneuver in and out of a shallow 3โ€™ deep pit used to position yourself safely under cars
  • You will walk, stand, bend, stoop, twist, etc. for extended periods of time and perform activities involving holding, grasping, pulling and turning
  • You may need to work in hot/cold weather conditions
  • Always be alert and aware of your surroundings
  • Must be able to lift up to fifty (50) pounds
  • Need to have reliable transportation

What does a Lube/Smog Technician do?

  • Drain motor oil, change oil filter, grease chassis fittings
  • Wash windshield and adjust tire pressure
  • Inspect and top off fluids
  • Assist the customer in selecting oil type and other services
  • Process payment for services performed.
  • Perform coolant exchanges and transmission drain & fill services
  • Restock and maintain inventory levels on the floor
  • Maintain shop, office, and bathroom cleanliness
  • Perform emissions inspections on a variety of vehicles in accordance with state and federal regulations.
  • Operate and maintain emissions testing equipment, ensuring it is properly calibrated and functioning.
  • Accurately record all inspection results and complete necessary documentation and reporting for the state's oversight program.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with customers about test results, explaining any failures and the steps needed to pass.
  • Stay up-to-date on all changes to emissions regulations and testing procedures.
  • Must maintain a valid Smog Technician license from the state.

Good to Know Before You Start!

  • It might feel like you are studying for a test at the beginning. Itโ€™s important that all employees gain a strong knowledge of our oils and services.
  • Must maneuver in and out of a shallow 3โ€™ deep pit used to position yourself safely under cars
  • You will walk, stand, bend, stoop, twist, etc. for extended periods of time and perform activities involving holding, grasping, pulling and turning
  • You may need to work in hot/cold weather conditions
  • Always be alert and aware of your surroundings
  • Must be able to lift up to fifty (50) pounds
  • Need to have reliable transportation