You don’t need to be completely familiar with cars or have a 2-4-year degree to work in the automotive aftermarket, which is one of the nicest things about getting the top-paid jobs in that field. There is always a need for an automobile, regardless of your profession, whether you are a marketer, banker, or Engineer.
There have been over a hundred job openings for years, with the automobile industry accounting for most of them.
There are jobs for both experienced workers and newcomers in the automotive aftermarket. Even if you don’t have a lot of experience, you might still be able to get one of the high-paying jobs.
In the automotive aftermarket, experienced workers and newcomers can find many job opportunities, and the industry has room to grow. A degree will help you get a job, but you’ll do better in the long run if you learn the right skills and talents.
There is no equality in the world of expertise, just as in any other job; some experts often make more money each year than others. But if you have the necessary knowledge and expertise, you’ll have an advantage in this dynamic industry.
The automotive aftermarket is a great way to make a living, and it’s also a field where you can build your reputation without having to work for someone else.
Many of the highest-paying jobs are in the automotive aftermarket, a profitable industry with global automotive aftermarkets that bring in billions of dollars each year. This review will provide you with all the information you want on the highest-paid positions in the automobile aftermarket.
22 Best-Paying Jobs In The Automotive Aftermarket
If the auto industry keeps growing, there are plenty of opportunities in the aftermarket. In this article, we’ll list the top 22 best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket and briefly describe each. From technicians to managers, this comprehensive guide will help you find the right job and make the most of your career prospects in the industry. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring these career opportunities today and learn more about their average salaries in the United States!
1. Automotive Service Technician
The average salary for an automotive service technician is $37,000 annually.
As an automotive service technician, it will be your job to figure out what’s wrong with a car and fix it. It can include anything from fixing a tire to changing the oil in a car. To become a successful automotive service technician, you need to earn a high school diploma or earn an Automotive Service Tech certificate from community colleges or vocational schools.
If you want to work in the automotive aftermarket, it’s a good idea to go for it because it pays well.
2. Warranty Specialist
A warranty specialist is a highly sought-after position in the automotive aftermarket. The average salary for this role is around $60,000 per year, and many roles also offer good benefits such as paid vacation and health insurance.
It’s one of the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket. This is due to various factors, including the growing popularity and importance of warranties. As vehicles become more complex and reliant on electronic systems, there is an increased demand for technicians who can service and repair these components. In addition, automakers are increasingly turning to third-party warranty providers to cover their defects instead of fixing them internally. Therefore, this field rapidly expands and offers a great opportunity for those with electronics diagnosis and repair skills.
Furthermore, this field has seen increasing job prospects over the past few years due not only to growth in warranty coverage but also because there is a greater need for technicians who have expertise in working on modern electrical systems. So, if you’re looking for a career that offers good pay and development opportunities, pursue a career as a Warranty Specialist!
3. Body Shop Technician
The average salary of a body shop technician is $42,000 annually.
A body shop technician is responsible for everything from cleaning and repairing cars to painting them. They will also oversee the work done by other technicians in the shop.
You’ll need a technical degree to succeed as a body shop technician. However, most employers will also look for experience. You can get experience working as an auto mechanic or doing apprenticeship programs. If you want to work in the automotive aftermarket, it’s a good idea to go for it because it pays well.
4. Logistics Coordinator
In terms of pay, a logistics coordinator can make an average salary of $51K annually.
As a logistics coordinator, you’re a skilled professional who ensures that automotive parts and accessories arrive on time, in the right condition, and at the right location. This position has been growing rapidly due to increased demand from car manufacturers and consumers alike for quality products. As such, this job offers excellent opportunities for progression and growth into other related positions within the industry.
These professionals typically hold certifications such as ISO 9001:2015 or TS 16949:2009, demonstrating their commitment to high safety and quality standards. They also need good coordination skills; since they are often responsible for multiple teams working together simultaneously, they must have strong communication skills.
As you can see from these requirements, there are many reasons why logistics coordinators are among some of the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket today! So, suppose you’re interested in finding an exciting career with benefits that will allow you to work closely with others while fulfilling your personal goals. In that case, this could be a great option!
5. Manufacturing Engineer
In terms of pay, a manufacturing engineer can make an average salary of $82K annually.
As a manufacturing engineer, you’re responsible for helping to optimize production processes and improve efficiency within the auto industry. You’ll need excellent analytical and problem-solving skills and experience working with CAD software to achieve this goal. In addition, your position will often require that you work closely with other departments within the company, such as engineering or marketing, to ensure that all products meet customer expectations.
Due to these challenging requirements and growing demand from consumers worldwide for quality vehicles, careers in automotive manufacturing engineering are among some of the most promising today! So, if you have the qualifications and ambition needed to be successful in this field, now is a great time to start exploring your options.
6. Car Interior Designer
The average salary of a car interior designer is $59,000 annually.
As a car interior designer, you will play a vital role in creating the look and feel of a vehicle’s interior. You’ll need to have skills in drawing, painting, sketching, assembling furniture and fixtures from scratch, and possessing excellent taste. In addition to designing individual seats or interiors for vehicles individually or on an assembly line basis (depending on the type of business), many designers also work with automotive aftermarket companies that create custom components such as sound systems or leather upholstery.
As one of today’s most sought-after professions, thanks to its rich history of creativity and artistry coupled with practicality and modularity when it comes to implementing designs into real-life situations (vehicles included), car Interior Design ranks high among some of the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket that are available right now. If this sounds like your dream job, professionally wise AND financially speaking – don’t hesitate any longer!
Get started by finding accredited schools that can teach both traditional woodworking courses AND auto body/interior design courses, which would better equip you for taking what is currently regarded as one of America’s hottest field options Interior design may be the perfect profession if you’re passionate about cars and enjoy working with people.
7. Sales Representative
A sales representative’s average salary is $48,000, which makes it among the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket.
Sales representatives play an important role in increasing dealership profits by converting customer leads into sales transactions. They are responsible for understanding customers’ needs and conveying that information to dealerships so that vehicles can be sold efficiently.
Additionally, they must have excellent communication skills and attention to detail because they must remember everything discussed during customer visits. Sales representatives often work long hours, weekends, and holidays to maintain close relationships with their clients.
Positions for sales representatives usually require at least some college coursework in business or marketing. However, some employers may accept candidates without formal training or education if they demonstrate potential through previous job experience or test scores.
This is among the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket because commission rates can be quite lucrative, especially if you sell vehicle parts or accessories. In addition, many companies offer healthcare benefits (including dental insurance), 401k plans with matching contributions, paid vacation days+, sick days+, and other perks.
So, whether you’re looking for a new career challenge or want some extra income, a Sales Representative might fit the bill!
8. Vehicle Restoration Specialist
The average salary of a vehicle restoration specialist is about $37,000 annually. This is a high-paying career that offers many opportunities for advancement and growth. Vehicle restoration specialists work in various automotive repair shops or companies auctioning old vehicles. They are responsible for rebuilding, repairing, or restoring vintage cars and trucks so one can sell them as original (or “as new”) pieces.
Many vehicle restoration specialists also have advanced knowledge of paints, clays, and other types of finishes used on antique automobiles. Therefore, they are often asked to help with the final touches on car auctions or to give lectures at museums about the art of restoration.
Salary prospects for vehicle restoration specialists vary greatly depending on experience, skills, and location. However, the field is growing rapidly, so there are likely many jobs to be had soon!
9. Body Technician
The average salary of a body technician is $47,000 annually.
As a body technician, you’re an automotive technician who specializes in working on cars and trucks. They are responsible for everything from changing the oil, checking fluids, fixing lights and brakes, and performing vehicle diagnostics. The best part? Body technicians have some of the highest salaries within the automotive aftermarket.
If you’re interested in a career as a body technician, then your requirements are straightforward. You need to be able to work with cars and have the chemical sensitivity required for working with many of the chemicals used in auto repair. Additionally, you should be able to read and understand technical manuals, have previous experience working with computers and have excellent problem-solving skills.
As far as your roles go, most body technicians work on car interiors or exteriors. They may also adjust or replace parts such as headlights, taillights, air filters, exhaust systems, etc. At the same time, other technicians perform diagnostic tests on engines or brakes. The pay is good since this is one of the few jobs that offer job security and benefits such as health care insurance and retirement savings options.
According to Glassdoor, they earn a median salary of $47k annually. That’s more than double the national average, according to US News & World Report!
There are many reasons why this field is so lucrative. Still, one major reason is that body technicians have lots of experience with different vehicles and equipment. In addition, they’re often able to work independently without much supervision, making them very self-reliant. And lastly, because body technicians handle a lot of delicate machinery and components, they must have strong hands-on skills.
So, if you’re looking for an exciting career where you can use your creative side to solve problem-shooting issues related to automobiles, then becoming a body technician might be what you’re looking for!
10. Brake Technician
The average salary of a brake technician is $37 per hour or $78,640 per year based on 10 hours worked weekly.
As a brake technician, you are responsible for repairing and maintaining brake systems on cars and trucks. This includes:
- Troubleshooting Brakes,
- Testing them,
- Replacing parts as necessary, and
- Ensuring that the system is always in working order.
The best part about this job is that it’s one of the most reliable in the automotive aftermarket. Due to its high demand and steady growth, brake technicians are consistently rewarded with good pay and excellent benefits. Additionally, many companies offer tuition reimbursement or other college assistance programs to help their employees pursue a higher education degree.
Brake technicians typically have a two-year certification program that teaches them about brake fundamentals and how to work on specific models of vehicles. They then spend time working directly under a certified master mechanic before being able to take on more independent tasks. If you’re interested in becoming a brake technician, take steps to learn more about this profession.
11. Purchasing Agent
Purchasing agents are in high demand and typically earn very good salaries. Purchasing agents make an average wage of $86,520 per year.
They typically work in automotive aftermarkets as sales professionals or warranty specialists. To be successful in this field, you will need excellent communication skills and a serious attitude toward selling cars. You should also have experience working with numbers and be able to think on your feet when it comes to negotiations.
Since purchasing agents often deal with confidential information, they must be savvy computer users comfortable using various software applications, including word processors, spreadsheet programs, databases management systems (DBMS), web browsers, email clients, etc. They must also have strong customer service skills because buying processes can sometimes become arguments if misunderstandings arise.
12. Quality Control Inspector
The average salary for a Quality Control Inspector is $74,970 per year. This is among the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket that I should try.
While this job may not be right for everyone, it offers many benefits and opportunities unavailable elsewhere. These include:
- Flexible scheduling due to its 24/7 nature
- Excellent pay and benefits package that includes
- Medical Insurance, retiree healthcare coverage with employer contributions,
- 401k match,
- paid holidays (All employees will receive at least six weeks of PTO annually)
Please note some states offer even more generous retirement savings options, such as double or triple matches!
- Good working conditions since QCIs work in various environments, including manufacturing plants, racetracks (depending on the state),
- truck stops (again, depending on the state), and more.
In most cases, QCIs also have full worker’s compensation and liability insurance, which provides peace of mind when making everyday decisions while on duty.
Suppose you have these qualifications and are looking for an excellent career with growth opportunities. In that case, this could be a great fit for you!
13. Business Analyst
The average salary of a business analyst is $92 per hour or $158,120 per year based on 40 hours worked weekly.
Suppose you are passionate about automotive aftermarkets and have excellent problem-solving skills. In that case, becoming a business analyst may be the perfect career.
As a business analyst, your job will involve researching potential new products or services, developing plans to market them effectively, and managing resources such as budget and workforce. Furthermore, you will need to be able to think quickly on your feet to come up with solutions when problems arise.
This is an increasingly popular field because it offers many opportunities for growth within the automotive industry. And since businesses are constantly looking for ways to save money, being a business Analyst can give you access to valuable information that can help reduce costs. In addition, the median salary for this profession is above average compared with other jobs in the automotive aftermarket sector. So, if identifying and solving problems interests you, become a business analyst today!
14. Collision Repair Specialist
The average salary of a collision repair specialist is $61.60 per hour or $110,560 per year based on 40 hours worked weekly.
Suppose you are passionate about fixing cars and willing to put in the extra work. In that case, becoming a collision repair specialist may be the perfect career. As a collision repair specialist, your job will involve repairing damage caused by collisions between vehicles. To be a professional collision repair technician, you must know vehicle mechanics and accident reconstruction. Furthermore, you will need to be able to work quickly yet efficiently to get repairs done expediently.
If you can meet these qualifications and have a passion for repairing cars, becoming a collision repair specialist could be the right choice!
15. Computer-Aided Design Engineer
The average salary of a Computer-Aided Design Engineer is $74,346 a year.
Suppose you have a background in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) engineering. In that case, you likely know that this is one of the most demanding and high-paying professions in the automotive aftermarket.
As a CAD engineer, your roles may include:
- Designing new parts or assemblies for vehicles,
- Assessing performance metrics of existing parts and assemblies,
- Creating 3D models and drawings to illustrate concepts and ideas,
- Developing test plans and procedures for manufacturing or assembly processes using simulation software,
- Participating in product development reviews as required by management or regulatory bodies.
All these activities require excellent problem-solving skills and an understanding of advanced technology.
In addition to being highly paid compared to other automobile-related jobs such as technician positions or salespeople., CAD engineers are often sought after because they possess unique skill sets that you can’t find easily elsewhere.
So, if you’re interested in pursuing a career with plenty of opportunities for advancement, then becoming a CAD engineer may be the perfect choice for you!
16. Mechanic (General)
The average mechanic (general) in the US earns an annual salary of $60,000.
The profession is one of the best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket that I should try. It has a growing trend due to the increasing number of vehicles serviced by DIY mechanics. Many mechanics work on cars and trucks as part of their business or hobby, so there is plenty of opportunity for growth.
The responsibilities associated with this job include repairing engines, brakes, transmissions, axles, and other components; adjusting oil levels; replacing air filters; testing drive belts and water pumps; greasing parts such as bearings; performing preventative maintenance tasks like changing tires and fluid levels; diagnosing problems with warning lights on dashboard instruments; and more.
Since most car repairs are vocational rather than academic skillsets required for many other occupations, repair technicians often have good problem-solving abilities and enough technical expertise. In addition to satisfying customers’ needs quickly while minimizing downtime, repair technicians must stay calm under pressure since they may be called upon at any time during service calls.
17. Paint And Body Specialist
A paint and body specialist can make an average salary of $69,000 in the United States,
That’s considerably higher than many other similar positions, including car detailer ($46,880), auto glass installer ($45,280), and tire changer ($40,360).
This field is lucrative because it requires great skill and knowledge. Not only must you be able to paint cars correctly (or at least not wrong!), but you also need to know how to protect them from UV radiation and moisture damage. In addition to regular vehicle maintenance tasks, paint specialists are often responsible for repairing or replacing parts such as sealants or window tinting.
Several roles qualify someone as a paint specialist: apprentice/junior technician; coatings applicator; spray painter/sealer; pearlized/texturizer; and lacquer application supervisor (lacquer artist). Requirements include certification from one of the major painting associations like NAPA Professional Automotive Painting Association (NPAA) or Technical Alliance Limited Warranty Auto Detailers & Polishers Certification Program (TALWAC).
Given all this information, it’s clear why a paint and body specialist career is one of the best-paying jobs for those looking for stability and long-term employment prospects.
18. Parts Coordinator
The average parts coordinator salary in the United States is $57,080.
The Parts Coordinator position requires an understanding of automotive mechanics and troubleshooting procedures and a detailed knowledge of parts inventory.
To qualify for this career, you will likely need experience working with computers and be competent at organizing data. You should also have excellent organizational skills and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
One potential advantage of being a Parts Coordinator is that it offers employees access to various types of equipment so they can carry out repairs or replacements on vehicles quickly and efficiently. In addition, some companies offer tuition reimbursement and other benefits such as holiday pay.
19. Electrical Engineer
The average salary for this profession is relatively high, with most earners earning around $85,000 annually.
As an Electrical Engineer, you will work on various projects involving the design and installation of electrical systems. Your roles could include leading teams of engineers during big construction projects or helping to diagnose and solve complex automotive problems.
The average salary for this profession is relatively high because Electrical Engineers are in high demand across all sectors of the economy.
Moreover, many employers believe Electric Engineers have unique skills and knowledge that make them valuable additions to their workforce. They often offer competitive salaries and benefits packages that vary depending on the company size and location. Suppose you’re interested in taking your career as an Electrical Engineer further. In that case, it’s important to build a strong resume that showcases your abilities and highlights why you should be hired over other candidates vying for similar positions.
20. Fleet Manager
The average salary of a Fleet Manager is $93,334 annually.
As a fleet manager, you oversee and manage a fleet of vehicles, including maintaining accurate records of vehicle conditions, parking permits, fuel usage, and other associated data. They also work to improve efficiency within the fleet by implementing best practices and recommending ways to improve operations. As such, fleet managers typically earn an excellent salary that is well above average compared to most automotive aftermarket jobs.
The profession of Fleet Manager has been growing steadily over recent years as businesses become increasingly reliant upon fleets as part of their overall business strategy. This means that there is currently strong demand for professionals who have mastery over all aspects of auto operation and maintenance. My roles
To be successful as a Fleet Manager, you will need at least three years of experience working with vehicles in some capacity (e.g., mechanics). Additionally, knowledge about safety procedures related to motor vehicle operations should be readily available due to how risky this job can sometimes be! Finally, because fleet management involves so many facets of car ownership/operation, candidates must have strong communication skills and the ability to think strategically About problems and solutions.
21. Inventory Control Specialist
The average salary of an Inventory Control Specialist is $81,552 annually.
As an inventory control specialist, you are responsible for maintaining accurate records of all items in a warehouse or store. This includes keeping track of the quantities and types of products sold and ensuring that all product shipments meet established standards. In addition to this core role, inventory control specialists frequently contribute to overall company efficiency by suggesting ways to streamline operations and improve accuracy. As a result, careers in this field offer excellent pay and potential for growth over time.
22. Materials Specialist
The average salary of a materials specialist is $63,151 annually.
A materials specialist is responsible for procuring, managing, and distributing automotive parts and components. They typically have high knowledge of various manufacturing processes and can identify potential defects or problems before they become widespread.
This is an extremely demanding job that requires skills in both technical writing and logic analysis. Materials specialists typically command high salaries (up to $100 per hour) and can enjoy excellent benefits packages, including health insurance, 401(k) plans, paid vacation days, and more.
Some of the most common roles that material specialists play include quality control engineer, product development manager, purchasing agent; engineering analyst; research coordinator; part data coordinator; production supervisor/line worker; assistant QC director; team lead Engineer & or Manager.
Conclusion
The automotive aftermarket has a lot of openings, making it easy to get a job because of the increased demand for people with skills. These jobs include working in auto shops, garages, and repair centers. If you are interested in such career options, we suggest you search for job openings now!
In case you haven’t decided what you want to do yet, check out our list of 22 best-paying jobs in the automotive aftermarket above and see if anything catches your attention. After all, there is no other option than to work if the money is really good.