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Smog Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lube Tech

Avondale, AZ · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Obtain and maintain Toyota technician certification and any ASE's and/or smog licenses as required ... Understanding of automotive technology * Willingness to learn * Ability to multitask * Ability to ...

Lube Tech

Avondale, AZ · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Obtain and maintain Toyota technician certification and any ASE's and/or smog licenses as required ... Understanding of automotive technology * Willingness to learn * Ability to multitask * Ability to ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Smog Tech information

See salary details

$13

$22

$33

How much do smog tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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.

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.

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 specialized skills may earn higher wages, especially in busy automotive repair shops or dealerships.

How to become a smog tech?

To become a smog technician, you must complete a state-approved training program and obtain a certification, such as the California Smog Check Technician Certification or equivalent in other states. Additionally, you need to pass a licensing exam and may be required to have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record. Continuing education is often necessary to maintain certification and stay current with regulations.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Smog Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,887 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Used Car Technician/Mechanic

Swickard Auto Group

Oakland, CA • On-site

$33 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Oakland, CA Audi Luxury brand Hospitality Used Car Technician Pre-owned Safety inspection SMOG Flat-rate Bay Area Veterans encouraged to apply $33 - $45/hr flat rate
IS THIS YOU?
• You're a dependable technician with a thorough eye - you can work through a pre-owned vehicle efficiently and accurately without missing what matters
• You hold your work to a high standard and move with pace - flat-rate means both quality and efficiency show up in your paycheck
• You have SMOG certification or are actively pursuing it - and you're ready to put that credential to work at a high-volume luxury dealership
WHO WE ARE
Swickard Auto Group is a hospitality company that happens to sell and service cars. We believe the best guest experiences start with the best employee experiences. That's why we've grown to 40+ rooftops across the West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii while maintaining a culture built on one simple idea: do right by people, every time.
At Audi Oakland, every pre-owned vehicle we put on the lot goes through a thorough inspection process before it reaches a guest. The Used Car Technician is the person who makes that standard real - performing safety inspections, completing light mechanical repairs, and ensuring every vehicle we sell is something we stand behind.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
• Perform comprehensive safety inspections on pre-owned vehicles across multiple makes and model years - evaluating brakes, tires, suspension, steering, lighting, fluids, belts, hoses, and all major vehicle systems
• Complete light mechanical repairs as approved - addressing safety and operational items identified during inspection to bring vehicles to dealership standards
• Perform SMOG inspections and emissions testing on applicable vehicles - SMOG certification required for this function
• Document inspection findings accurately and thoroughly - preparing clear reconditioning recommendations that support used vehicle management decisions
• Conduct road tests to evaluate vehicle performance and confirm repair quality
• Coordinate with the used vehicle manager on reconditioning priorities, timelines, and approval for repairs
• Maintain accurate repair order documentation for all inspection and reconditioning work performed
• Work efficiently within a fast-paced dealership environment - throughput and accuracy both matter in this role
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation throughout every shift
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
• Proven experience as an automotive technician - dealership or independent shop experience both considered
• California SMOG certification highly preferred - this credential is a significant advantage and will be recognized in your rate
• Strong attention to detail - your inspection reports directly influence what vehicles go to market
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment without sacrificing accuracy or quality
• Multi-brand experience a strong plus - used vehicle reconditioning covers a wide range of makes and model years
• ASE certifications a strong plus
• Dependable, punctual, and self-directed - the reconditioning operation depends on consistent, quality output every day
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
WHAT WE OFFER
$33 - $45/hr flat rate - SMOG certification and demonstrated experience reflected in your rate
• A focused, consistent workflow - reconditioning provides steady flat-rate hours with predictable volume
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and supplemental coverage options
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Career growth within the Swickard organization - strong technicians grow into senior tech, shop foreman, and service management roles
• Employee vehicle purchase and service discounts
WHY AUDI OAKLAND
• A high-volume luxury dealership with a robust pre-owned operation - consistent reconditioning work and steady flat-rate hours
• SMOG certification is recognized and rewarded in your rate - it's a valued credential here, not just a checkbox
• A focused role with clear scope - safety inspections, light repairs, and SMOG work without the unpredictability of a full service drive
• Oakland and the greater Bay Area represent one of the strongest pre-owned vehicle markets in the country
• Swickard is one of the fastest-growing dealer groups in the country - ranked Top 5 in North America for reputation in the automotive industry
• Our HEART values - Honor, Engage, Anticipate, Respond, Thank - shape how we treat our team just as much as our guests
• Leadership that values the technicians who protect the store's reputation through quality inspection work
Every pre-owned vehicle Audi Oakland sells passes through this role first. The Used Car Technician's inspection is the standard that protects both the guest and the store - and doing it right, efficiently and consistently, is what makes this role valuable. It's focused work at a high-volume operation with a rate structure that rewards your credentials and your output.
If you're a dependable technician with a sharp eye, strong work ethic, and SMOG certification - we'd like to meet you. #T4
Salary Description
$33 - $45/hour flat-rate