Automotive Technician Career Guide in Mississippi
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Mississippi.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Mississippi
Technicians typically complete an automotive technology certificate or associate degree followed by supervised dealership or repair-shop experience. Training includes engines, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, diagnostics, transmissions, HVAC, hybrids, and EVs.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Automotive Technician Salary in Mississippi
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Mississippi median wage for automotive technician workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $49,670, the median wage in Mississippi is approximately $3,650 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Mississippi
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONAutomotive Technician Training Requirements in Mississippi
Automotive technicians in Mississippi generally qualify through postsecondary automotive training and supervised repair-shop or dealership experience.
- Complete training in engines, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, transmissions, diagnostics, and vehicle HVAC.
- Develop hands-on skills using scan tools, digital meters, service information systems, lifts, alignment equipment, and shop tools.
- Obtain EPA Section 609 certification before servicing motor-vehicle air-conditioning refrigerant systems.
- Consider ASE certifications after meeting the applicable education and work-experience requirements.
- Complete manufacturer or employer training for hybrid, electric, diesel, and advanced driver-assistance systems when required.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Mississippi
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Hinds Community College | Raymond | View Program |
| Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College | Perkinston | View Program |
| East Mississippi Community College | Scooba | View Program |
| Northwest Mississippi Community College | Senatobia | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESAutomotive Technician Apprenticeship Programs in Mississippi
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association
Mississippi Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Mississippi Apprenticeship Program
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Mississippi
Mississippi does not require a general occupational license for automotive service technicians. Employers may require ASE certification. Technicians conducting regulated vehicle inspections or handling refrigerants must satisfy the applicable program requirements and federal EPA Section 609 rules.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Mississippi
Mississippi projects employment to increase from approximately 7,470 jobs in 2024 to 7,800 jobs in 2034. This represents 4% growth and approximately 650 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the automotive technician salary in Mississippi?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Mississippi is approximately $46,020 per year, or $22.13 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Mississippi require automotive technician licensing?
Licensing requirements for automotive technician workers in Mississippi vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Mississippi Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Services before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician in Mississippi?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 6 Months–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are automotive technicians in demand in Mississippi?
Mississippi projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 4% from 2024 to 2034, with about 650 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Mississippi Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Mississippi Automotive Technician Wages
- Mississippi Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Mississippi Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- Mississippi Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Services — Licensing authority. Mississippi Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Services