Join the ranks of skilled mechanics: Careers that power America

What is a mechanic?

A mechanic is a skilled worker who repairs and maintains mechanical equipment, from cars and trucks to airplanes and industrial machinery. In the United States, mechanics keep vehicles on the road, planes off the ground, and factories functioning properly. They use tools like wrenches, diagnostic scanners, and computers to troubleshoot problems, perform maintenance, and ensure systems run smoothly. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that more than 1.5 million mechanics will be employed nationwide by 2023, highlighting their critical role in transportation, manufacturing, and other fields.

There are many types of mechanics—automotive, diesel, aircraft, and industrial specialists—each requiring a combination of training and hands-on skills. Most learn through vocational courses or apprenticeships, adapting to new technologies like electric vehicles (EVs). They are the problem solvers who keep America’s infrastructure moving.

Benefits of being a mechanic: real wages and benefits

A career as a mechanic can be highly rewarding, both financially and personally. Here are some reasons to consider it.

Actual wages: According to BLS data (May 2023), automotive mechanics make a median annual wage of $46,970, with top earners making over $75,100. Diesel mechanics, who repair trucks, make an average of $54,360, with the top 10% making over $80,940. Aircraft mechanics make a median annual wage of $70,740, with top earners making over $108,200. Industrial mechanics make $61,990, with top earners making $84,350. Overtime (common in the industry) can increase earnings by 50% per hour, adding thousands of dollars per year.

Job security: Mechanics are in steady demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that by 2032, there will be 67,700 openings per year for auto mechanics, 28,300 openings per year for diesel mechanics (up 4%), and 13,100 openings per year for aircraft mechanics (up 6%), driven by e-commerce, travel, and aging equipment.

Other benefits: Many employers offer health insurance, paid time off, and a tool allowance. The hands-on nature of the job is great for those who don’t like desk work, and there’s a sense of satisfaction after every fix. The skills are transferable, too—mechanics can switch careers or open their own shops.

In short, mechanics get competitive pay, stability, and the chance to work on real-world challenges—attractive benefits in today’s U.S. job market.

Top Companies Hiring Mechanics

The top companies in the U.S. are hiring mechanics right now. Here are some examples based on 2025 trends and job postings:

Pep Boys: The auto store chain, with more than 800 stores, pays auto mechanics $18 to $30 an hour and offers benefits like discounts. Visit pepboys.com/careers.

UPS: UPS needs to hire diesel mechanics for its delivery fleet, with pay of $25 to $40 an hour, plus retirement benefits. Check jobs-ups.com.

Delta Airlines: Delta is hiring aircraft mechanics, with a minimum wage of $30 an hour and a maximum wage of more than $50 an hour, plus travel stipends. Visit delta.com/careers.

Caterpillar Inc.: Caterpillar is seeking industrial mechanics for heavy equipment, with annual salaries of $50,000 to $80,000. Apply at caterpillar.com/careers.

Tesla: Tesla is hiring electric vehicle mechanics, with pay of $25 to $45 an hour and stock options. Visit tesla.com/careers.

These employers and many local shops need talent to keep their businesses running.

Who Can Be a Machinist?

Machinist jobs are suitable for a variety of people with the right qualifications and attitude. Here's who's a good fit:

Education: A high school diploma or GED is a basic requirement. Most mechanics attend vocational schools (e.g., Universal Technical Institute) or learn on the job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says 62% of mechanics will have some postsecondary education in 2023.

Skills: You'll need mechanical knowledge, attention to detail, and proficiency in modern diagnostic technology. Physical strength helps, too.

Experience: Beginners can start as an apprentice; career changers can mature gradually. There's no age limit.

Certifications: An ASE certificate (for the automotive industry) or FAA certification (for aviation) can increase your chances of success—80% of employers prefer them, according to industry surveys.

Diversity: Women (4% of mechanics in 2023) and immigrants are welcome, and some companies offer visa support.

If you’re pragmatic and eager to learn, this career is for you.

How to Apply for a Machinist Job

Becoming a mechanic is simple, just follow these steps:

Training: Enroll in a vocational school ($5,000-20,000 with financial aid) or apprenticeship. Online courses (like Penn Foster) cost $1,000-2,000.

Certification: Get an ASE ($36 to $150 per test) or FAA certificate. Employers may cover the cost.

Resume: List training and skills. Use Indeed’s free templates.

Search: Check Indeed.com or Glassdoor.com — there are more than 12,000 mechanic jobs posted in March 2025. Filter by location or salary.

Apply: Submit through a company website (like ups.com) or walk into a local shop. Many applications take 10-30 minutes.

Networking: Job fairs or the Automotive Service Association (ASA) can help you connect with employers.

Because demand is high, responses come quickly—usually within a few days.

Conclusion: A job that drives your future

Being a mechanic in the United States means high pay ($46,000 to over $108,000), job security, and the pride of getting your hands dirty. Companies like UPS, Tesla, and Delta Airlines are hiring today to support their fleets and factories. Whether you're young, a career changer, or a tech-savvy person, this field has a place for you. Mechanics do more than just fix things; they move America forward. Ready to get started? Your career awaits.