Automotive Technician Jobs in Arlington, TX
Automotive technicians are in steady demand across Arlington, where Auto Row along I-20 and the SH 360 dealership corridor keep service bays full year round. Entry-level techs and lube-and-tire hires often start near $15 to $18 an hour, but ASE-certified technicians working on flat-rate pay routinely earn $25 to $35 an hour, and master techs at busy dealerships can push past $90,000 a year. In a car-dependent metroplex like DFW, a solid set of certifications is one of the most reliable ways to grow your income.
Current automotive technician Openings in Arlington, TX
Listings marked External are sponsored openings provided by the Jobs2Careers network.
Top Arlington Employers Hiring Automotive Technicians
Technicians are needed across Arlington's dealerships, national repair chains, and independent shops:
- Vandergriff Automotive - the Toyota, Honda, Acura, and Chevrolet dealership group on Auto Row hires flat-rate and dealership technicians.
- Moritz Dealerships - the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and BMW group staffs certified line technicians.
- Christian Brothers Automotive - the Texas-rooted repair chain hires diagnostic and general service techs.
- Firestone Complete Auto Care - the national service chain runs multiple Arlington bays hiring maintenance and repair techs.
- Classic Dealerships - the area dealership group hires certified and apprentice technicians.
- Don Davis Auto Group - the Arlington dealership group staffs line and express-service technicians.
Automotive Technician Salaries in Arlington
- Entry level: about $15 to $19 per hour for lube, tire, and apprentice techs.
- Experienced: roughly $25 to $35 per hour on flat-rate, plus bonuses.
- Master / senior: $80,000 to $95,000+ per year for ASE Master techs at high-volume dealerships.
These are estimates that vary by certification, brand specialty, and flat-rate productivity. Techs who invest in ASE certifications and manufacturer training generally earn the most, and many Arlington employers add tool allowances, paid training, and full benefits.
How to Become an Automotive Technician in Arlington
Most roles require a high school diploma or GED, and employers strongly prefer ASE certification and formal training. Tarrant County College offers an ASE and NATEF-accredited automotive technology program that connects graduates directly to local dealerships and shops. Many technicians start as apprentices or express-service techs, then add ASE certifications in areas like engine repair, brakes, electrical, and heating and air to move into higher-paying diagnostic roles. Manufacturer-specific training through Toyota, GM, or Chrysler programs adds even more earning power.
What the Job Involves
Automotive technicians diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and light trucks. Daily tasks include running computerized diagnostics, performing brake and suspension work, replacing engine and drivetrain components, handling electrical and HVAC repairs, and completing scheduled maintenance. Techs document work in shop management systems and often work on flat-rate pay, where efficiency and accuracy directly drive earnings.
Skills Employers Look For
- ASE certifications (A1 through A8 or Master)
- Diagnostic and computer scan-tool skills
- Brake, suspension, and drivetrain experience
- Electrical and HVAC troubleshooting
- Own set of hand tools
- Valid driver's license and clean record
Career Path and Advancement
Many Arlington technicians start in express service or as apprentices, earn ASE certifications, and move up to line technician, diagnostic specialist, and ASE Master tech. From there the path runs to shop foreman, service manager, or specialty roles in diesel, transmissions, or EV repair. Adding manufacturer certifications and mastering diagnostics are the fastest ways to raise flat-rate pay along Arlington's Auto Row.
Related Careers in Arlington
If working as an automotive technician interests you, these related Arlington roles are close matches:
- Auto Body Repair Technician Jobs
- Diesel Mechanic Jobs
- Tire Technician Jobs
- Automotive Service Advisor Jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need ASE certification to work as an automotive technician in Arlington?
ASE certification is not legally required, but most dealerships and reputable shops strongly prefer or require it. Certified techs earn significantly more, and employers often pay for testing and manufacturer training once you are hired.
How much do automotive technicians make in Arlington?
Entry-level and express-service techs generally start around $15 to $19 per hour, experienced flat-rate techs earn $25 to $35 per hour, and ASE Master technicians at busy dealerships can top $90,000 a year.
What is flat-rate pay for technicians?
Flat-rate pay assigns a set number of billable hours to each repair regardless of how long it actually takes. Efficient, skilled techs can bill more hours than they physically work, which rewards speed and accuracy with higher earnings.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician?
A certificate program can take under a year and an associate degree about two years. Many techs also enter through paid apprenticeships and build ASE certifications over time while working in Arlington shops.
Do I need my own tools?
Yes, most technician roles expect you to own a basic set of hand tools, with shops providing larger diagnostic and lift equipment. Many Arlington employers offer tool allowances or purchase programs to help techs build their kits over time.
Ready to apply? Browse all Automotive Technician jobs in Arlington, TX on LocalJobPage and apply today.