Automotive Technician Career Guide in Oregon
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Oregon.
Career Guide Navigation
How to Become an Automotive Technician in Oregon
Oregon technicians train through community colleges, dealership programs and manufacturer-supported pathways emphasizing emissions, advanced diagnostics and electric vehicles.
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 Oregon
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Oregon 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 Oregon is approximately $8,850 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Oregon
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 Oregon
Oregon automotive technicians typically complete a community-college program, dealership apprenticeship, manufacturer pathway, or employer training. Core preparation includes:
- Engine repair, fuel, ignition, emissions, and performance systems
- Automatic transmission and drivetrain diagnosis
- Brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and alignment
- Electrical systems, networks, and computerized diagnostics
- HVAC, hybrid, electric-vehicle, and high-voltage systems
- ADAS calibration, environmental compliance, and shop safety
EPA Section 609 applies to regulated refrigerant service. Emissions-related work may require additional Oregon DEQ program qualifications.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Oregon
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Community College – Automotive Service Technology | Portland | View Program |
| Chemeketa Community College – Automotive Technology | Salem | View Program |
| Lane Community College – Automotive Technology | Eugene | View Program |
| Mt. Hood Community College – Automotive Technology | Gresham | 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 Oregon
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Oregon
Oregon does not issue a general occupational license for automotive technicians. Technicians involved in regulated emissions diagnosis or repair may need program-specific qualifications. ASE and EPA Section 609 credentials may be employer-required.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Oregon
Oregon automotive technician employment is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, from approximately 7,990 to 8,480 jobs, with about 720 openings annually. Population growth, emissions-system service, fleet maintenance and vehicle electrification support demand.
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 Oregon?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Oregon is approximately $58,520 per year, or $28.14 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Oregon require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Oregon. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician in Oregon?
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 Oregon?
Oregon projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 6% from 2024 to 2034, with about 720 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
- Oregon Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Automotive Technician Wages
- Oregon Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- No General License / Oregon Department of Environmental Quality — Licensing authority. No General License / Oregon Department of Environmental Quality