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The demand for auto mechanics in New Mexico is constant, making this occupation a good career choice.
In this industry, these professionals have the possibility to work both as part of a team or independently.
In this article, you’ll find out how to become an auto mechanic in New Mexico if this is something you are interested in!
Article Table of Contents
Auto Mechanic Training in New Mexico
As a future auto mechanic, you’re expected to receive some training.
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Most training for auto mechanics is available at high schools.
You don’t a certification or any special diplomas.
Generally, a high school diploma or GED is more than enough for most employers.
Individuals who want a career, choose to pursue a degree program in automotive technology.
These degrees are available at community colleges.
These are some of the colleges in New Mexico with associate’s degree programs for future auto mechanics:
- New Mexico Junior College
- San Juan Community College
- Luna Community College
- Santa Fe Community College
- Clovis Community College
The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation must give its approval for all auto mechanic training programs.
This way, you know the curriculum meets the educational standards and you’re ready for an entry-level position.
You’ll attend two types of classes:
- Theory
- Practice
You’ll acquire these skills:
Earning an ASE Certification in New Mexico
ASE decided upon another set of standards when it comes to the services offered by any auto mechanic.
For this, ASE offers more than 40 certifications and you can earn as many as you like.
You’ll first have to meet the requirements:
- At least 2 years of experience
- Signing up and paying the fee for the exam
- Passing the exam
There are some certifications for which 1 year of experience is more than enough.
You’ll need about 3 years of related experience for other certifications.
The exam can only be taken on-site.
These are some of the certificates ASE offers:
- Repair technician
- Service consultant
- Collision damage estimator
- Parts specialist
When 5 years pass, you need to take and pass the exam again, as your certification must be renewed.
ASE also offers the option to those interested, to become a master auto mechanic.
For this, the candidates have to pass a series of 8 exams.
These are some of the diplomas and exams:
Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification
Across the nation, auto mechanics must have a 609-refrigerant certificate if they work on the MVAC system of a vehicle.
There are a course and an exam available online for this credential.
With this certificate in hand, auto mechanics can even purchase the dangerous refrigerant if they need to.
There is no need to renew this certification, even if it’s obtained through ASE.
Auto Mechanic Schools in New Mexico
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| IntelliTec College in Albuquerque | 4575 San Mateo Blvd NE Suite K, Albuquerque, NM 87109 |
| San Juan College | 4601 College Blvd, Farmington, NM 87402 |
| CNM Main Campus Student Services Center (SSC) | 900 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106 |
| Luna Community College | 366 Luna Dr, Las Vegas, NM 87701 |
| New Mexico State University Alamogordo | 2400 N Scenic Dr, Alamogordo, NM 88310 |
| University-New Mexico Gallup - North Campus | 425 N 7th St, Gallup, NM 87301 |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Roswell | 52 University Blvd, Roswell, NM 88203 |
| Santa Fe Community College | 6401 Richards Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87508 |
| Navajo Technical University | Lowerpoint Rd State Hwy 371, Crownpoint, NM 87313 |
| New Mexico Junior College | 5317 N Lovington Hwy, Hobbs, NM 88240 |
| Doña Ana Community College | 3400 Espina St, Las Cruces, NM 88003 |
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Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in New Mexico
Here are some of the places across New Mexico hiring freshly graduated auto mechanics:
- Dealerships
- Tire and parts shops
- Repair shops
- Gas stations
- Local governments
There are several job titles for auto mechanics, such as:
- Diesel specialist
- Bus and truck mechanic
- Automotive body repair worker
- Auto glass installer/repairer
You’ll find that on average, salaries are higher in cities like Albuquerque, Farmington, Santa Fe, or Rio Rancho.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Albuquerque | $37,557 |
| Las Cruces | $34,099 |
| Rio Rancho | $37,437 |
| Santa Fe | $37,911 |
| Roswell | $35,183 |
| Farmington | $37,132 |
| Clovis | $36,139 |
| Hobbs | $35,812 |
| Alamogordo | $35,784 |
| Carlsbad | $35,183 |
Regional Salary in New Mexico
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque, NM | 2,380 | $48,640 | $23.39 | $75,130 | $28,810 |
| Farmington, NM | 430 | $47,410 | $22.79 | $70,910 | $26,070 |
| Las Cruces, NM | 430 | $43,230 | $20.78 | $65,020 | $27,100 |
| Santa Fe, NM | 390 | $48,440 | $23.29 | $74,180 | $29,070 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in New Mexico
Working in a dealership requires quite a lot of specialized knowledge.
Those who work there must know everything about the cars a specific manufacturer makes.
For this, many individuals choose to obtain a manufacturer’s certification.
Read the full guide: How to Become an Auto Mechanic
Mechanic Schools by City
Mechanic Schools by State