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Trainee Mechanic Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Resource Label Group

Flexo Press Operator Trainee

Nixa, MO · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

The Press Trainee will assist in set up and operation of the printing press to producing labels on ... The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with or without mechanical assistance.

All JobsMechanic JobsTrainee Mechanic JobsTrainee Mechanic Jobs in Springfield, MO

Trainee Mechanic information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$8

$15

$26

How much do trainee mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee mechanic in Springfield, MO is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.91 and $18.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Mechanic vs Apprentice Mechanic?

AspectTrainee MechanicApprentice Mechanic
CertificationsOften in training, may have basic certificationsTypically enrolled in formal apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training under supervisionHands-on training alongside experienced mechanics
Industry UsageCommon in automotive and industrial sectorsStandard term in automotive repair and maintenance
Search IntentLearning roles, entry-level positionsTraining pathways, career development

Both roles involve on-the-job training in mechanical work, but a Trainee Mechanic is often in the early stages of learning, while an Apprentice Mechanic is enrolled in a formal apprenticeship program. The terms are used interchangeably in some regions, but generally, apprenticeships provide structured training with certifications, making the Apprentice Mechanic role more formalized.

Is 25 too old to become a mechanic?

Trainee mechanics can start at any age, including 25, as the profession values skills, training, and certifications over age. Many employers welcome mature candidates who demonstrate a strong work ethic and technical ability, and training programs often do not have age restrictions. Success in becoming a mechanic depends on dedication, learning practical skills, and obtaining relevant certifications such as ASE.

What are trainee mechanics?

Trainee mechanics are individuals who are learning the skills needed to become qualified automotive mechanics. They typically work under the supervision of experienced technicians, performing basic maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections while gaining hands-on experience. Trainee mechanics often participate in formal apprenticeship programs or on-the-job training to develop their technical knowledge and practical abilities. Over time, they build the expertise required to diagnose and repair a variety of vehicle issues independently. This role is an entry point into the automotive repair industry and can lead to advanced positions as skills and certifications are acquired.

How to become a trainee mechanic?

To become a trainee mechanic, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic knowledge of automotive systems. Gaining hands-on experience through vocational training, apprenticeships, or technical courses, along with developing skills in tools and diagnostics, is essential; some positions may also require relevant certifications or licenses.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a Trainee Mechanic expect during the first few months on the job?

As a Trainee Mechanic, you can expect to start with basic tasks such as assisting with vehicle inspections, performing routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, and cleaning work areas. Under the supervision of experienced mechanics, you’ll gradually learn to use diagnostic tools and handle minor repairs. You’ll also spend time observing more complex repairs and may be responsible for documenting work or ordering parts. This hands-on experience is essential for building confidence and technical skills, and you’ll typically work closely with a team to ensure safety and quality standards are met.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

In the trades, electrical and plumbing apprenticeships tend to offer some of the highest wages, especially as apprentices gain experience and certifications. Skilled trades such as HVAC, welding, and elevator installation also provide high earning potential for apprentices who complete their programs and gain specialized skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Mechanic, you need basic mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring vocational training. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, hand and power tools, and automotive repair systems is commonly required, and certifications like ASE can be advantageous. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate vehicle maintenance, safety, and efficient collaboration within a workshop environment.

How to get into being a mechanic with no experience?

To become a trainee mechanic with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of vehicle systems through online courses or reading. Seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships at repair shops or dealerships, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as the ASE Student Certification to improve your prospects. Hands-on training and a willingness to learn are essential for progressing in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanic jobs in Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Mechanic jobs in Springfield, MO are:
Trainee Mechanic jobs near you

Field Service Technician - Trainee

Goetze Dental

Springfield, MO

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Field Service Technician – Trainee
Goetze Dental | Springfield, MO
Know the Ozarks? We’ve Got a Career That Fits — And We’ll Train You Right.
If you’re a skilled technician who knows southern Missouri and northern Arkansas — the roads, the communities, the pace — and you’re ready to put those instincts to work in a specialized trade with a company that will genuinely invest in your development, this might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Goetze Dental is a family-owned company that has served dental practices across the Midwest since 1884. We’re looking for a mechanically talented person to join our Springfield service team through a structured training program that sets you up for long-term success — not just hands you a van and wishes you luck.
You bring the mechanical aptitude and work ethic. We’ll invest the time to train you properly.
About Goetze Dental
Goetze Dental has been family-owned and operated since 1884 — and today, the 4th and 5th generations of that same family are still running the business. We don’t answer to shareholders or worry about quarterly earnings. We make decisions based on what’s right for our customers, our employees, and the long-term health of the company.
We believe strongly in the private dental practice — the kind of dentist who knows their patients by name and takes genuine pride in their care. That’s who we serve, and it shapes everything about how we operate. We’re not a vendor to corporate dental chains — we’re a long-term partner to independent practitioners who share our values.
That same philosophy shows up in how we treat our own people. Many of our employees have been with us for decades. Our Director of Service has been with the company for 25 years, and several members of his team have been here even longer. We’re not a stepping stone — we’re a place where skilled people come to do great work and stay.
To be straightforward with you: the Service Technician role is a craft position. There isn’t a long management ladder to climb — but there is the opportunity to become genuinely expert at something specialized and in-demand, be compensated well for that expertise, and work for a company that will still be here — and still value you — ten and twenty years from now.
How We Train You
We do things differently from most field service operations. Rather than handing you a van and sending you out on your own before you’re ready, our Trainee program pairs you with an experienced senior technician for every call during your first several months — typically around six months, adjusted based on your individual progress.
During that period, you’ll be in the field every day, seeing real jobs across southern Missouri and northern Arkansas, learning from someone who’s done this for years, and building genuine competency before you’re ever on your own. When you do transition to your own van and territory, you’ll be ready — not just capable of the easy stuff.
This approach takes longer upfront. We know that. But we’ve found that technicians who are trained this way become far more capable and confident than those who are pushed out solo too soon — and they tend to stay with us a lot longer, too.
What’s Different About This Job
We know skilled technicians in the Ozarks have options. Here’s why our team members choose Goetze:
  • Structured ride-along training for your first several months — you’re never thrown in the deep end
  • Primarily Monday–Friday — no weekends, no on-call rotations
  • Year-round, indoor work — dental offices, not job sites in the July heat or January cold
  • Competitive pay during training, with a clear path to the full technician pay range of $20–$35/hour
  • All travel expenses covered — hotel, meals, fuel
  • Company service van provided once you transition to solo work
  • Ongoing technical development — from mechanical systems to advanced 3D imaging technology, you’ll keep learning and building marketable skills
  • Full benefits from day one: health, dental, vision, retirement plan, and paid time off
  • A stable, family-owned company with 140 years in business — we’re not going anywhere
About the Role
As a Field Service Technician Trainee based out of our Springfield office, you’ll spend your first several months riding alongside a senior technician across our territory in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas — visiting dental offices to install, repair, and maintain dental equipment. This is genuine Ozarks country, and a good portion of your driving will be on two-lane highways through rural communities. If you know these roads, you’ll feel right at home.
Once you’ve demonstrated the competency and confidence to work solo, you’ll transition to your own van and territory. From there, the work spans a growing range of technology — from mechanical systems like air compressors and vacuum units to increasingly sophisticated equipment like 3D dental imaging systems.
Goetze also serves our customers as a full-service IT managed services provider. While our dedicated IT technicians and remote helpdesk handle the complex IT work, you’ll occasionally be asked to serve as on-site hands and eyes for our remote team. You don’t need to be an IT expert, but being comfortable around technology and willing to learn is a genuine plus.
A Realistic Picture of the Schedule
We believe in being upfront. Here’s what the schedule actually looks like:
  • During your training period, you’ll be riding with a senior tech — their schedule becomes your schedule
  • Most days you’ll be out on territory and home in the evening — but rural Ozarks driving means some days are longer than others simply due to distance
  • Your territory covers southern Missouri and northern Arkansas — a lot of it is two-lane highway, and that’s just the reality of serving this region well
  • Occasional overnight trips happen — sometimes a job runs long, or the team is called to assist another branch. These are not the norm, but they do occur
  • When they do, all expenses are covered — hotel, meals, and fuel
  • Overtime is rare — when long days happen, we work to balance your schedule so your week stays at 40 hours
We think that’s a fair trade for the right person — and we’d rather you know it upfront than be surprised later.
What You’ll Do
  • Ride alongside a senior technician on every call during your training period, actively learning and assisting
  • Observe and assist with on-site installation, repair, and maintenance of dental equipment
  • Build diagnostic skills by working through real problems with an experienced mentor
  • Assist with customer training on equipment use and care
  • Serve as on-site support for our remote IT technicians when needed
  • Complete work orders and job documentation accurately and on time
  • Attend manufacturer and company training to build your dental equipment expertise
  • Transition to independent territory and company van upon reaching full competency
Backgrounds We’re Actively Looking For
No dental experience needed — we hire from a wide range of mechanical and technical backgrounds. Strong candidates have come from:
  • Agricultural, poultry, or livestock equipment service and repair
  • Food processing or agricultural facility maintenance
  • HVAC, plumbing, or electrical trades
  • Biomedical or medical equipment repair
  • Resort, hospitality, or attractions maintenance (including the Branson area)
  • Manufacturing maintenance or industrial equipment
  • Field IT support, AV installation, or electronics repair
  • General field service or equipment repair of any kind
Requirements
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to lift up to 100 lbs
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least 1 year of mechanical, trade, or technical experience
  • Comfortable around technology and willing to learn new systems
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
Ready for a Change?
If you’re a hands-on problem-solver who knows this part of the country, takes pride in your craft, and wants to build a long-term career with a company that invests in your development and will still value you decades from now — let’s talk.
Goetze Dental is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.

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