Last updated on Jul 17, 2024

Here's how you can assess your value and secure a just salary in the mechanics field.

Navigating the mechanics field can be as complex as the machines you work on, especially when it comes to getting paid what you're worth. You've got the skills and the experience, but are you being compensated fairly? Knowing your value and securing a just salary is not just about negotiation; it's about understanding the market, your position within it, and how to leverage your unique qualifications. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or just starting, this guide will help you assess your worth and ensure your paycheck reflects your true value.

1 Know Yourself

Understanding your own qualifications is the first step in assessing your value. Take stock of your certifications, special skills, years of experience, and the complexity of the work you're capable of handling. A mechanic with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification, for example, is often valued higher than one without. Reflect on the unique contributions you make to your workplace, such as a knack for diagnostics or a track record of efficient, quality repairs. This self-assessment will serve as the foundation for your salary negotiations.

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Fariborz Z.

Technical Inspector at AKPC
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Hello I am a technical inspector of materials (fixed equipment and machinery equipment) in a petrochemical company But I am also interested in making 3D printers and so far I have made two 3D printers in my spare time.

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Anthony Berkman

Central Coast business adviser and Chartered Accountant
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Are you clear about what is expected of you in the business? Are you expected to support a team or are you doing technical work all the time? I feel that once you know the answers you can better assess your value. Naturally the skill level that you have will be important as well as your rapport with the culture.

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Philip Knauff

Maintenance Manager specializing in Technical Maintenance and production automation
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Certification is a good thing to assess while determining your value. I believe it's important not just for yourself but as a solid thing people can grasp, so to speak. People want to see certifications, but if you're evaluating yourself, that paper is good for the boss man but you know without that piece of paper what you can do. EXPERIENCE, nothing beats experience, especially in a field like mechanics or industrial maintenance. If you haven't had yourself twisted in ungodly ways to reach that last bolt, or seen a dozen different variations of the same breakdown, you just don't know, no matter how much paper tags along with your resume or patches on your shirt. Never sell yourself short and always put experience at the top of worth list.

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2 Market Rates

To negotiate effectively, you need to know the going rate for mechanics with your skill set in your region. This involves some research. Look at job postings, talk to peers, and possibly consult trade associations to get an idea of the average pay range. Remember that factors like cost of living in your area and demand for mechanics can influence these rates. If you're specialized in a high-demand area like electric vehicle (EV) repair, you might command a higher salary.

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3 Experience Counts

Your years of experience in the field can significantly impact your earning potential. As a mechanic, the more experienced you are, the more complex tasks you can handle and the more efficient you become. This translates to value for your employer. When discussing salary, highlight specific instances where your experience has saved time or money, solved challenging problems, or improved service quality. Your goal is to make it clear that your experience enhances your worth.

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4 Special Skills

If you have skills that set you apart from other mechanics, these should be highlighted in any salary discussion. Whether it's advanced training in a particular type of vehicle, expertise in cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, or a strong customer service record, these special skills add significant value to your role. Explain how these skills benefit your employer directly, whether through increased customer satisfaction, the ability to take on more complex work, or improving shop efficiency.

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James Carey

Need money 🤑. Never got a credit card in my name.
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Test riding. Checking the vehicle for any troubles. Full brake application. Full throttle application. Condition of brake pads, chain, belt, driveshaft etc....

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5 Negotiation Tactics

When it comes time to talk numbers, it's important to approach the conversation with confidence and strategy. Begin by expressing your commitment to your role and the company. Then, present the data you've gathered on market rates and explain how your qualifications justify your salary request. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your contributions to the business. It's also crucial to listen and be open to counteroffers, finding a balance between standing firm on your worth and being flexible.

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James Carey

Need money 🤑. Never got a credit card in my name.
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Listen to the customer and be reasonable with what they want and how well they know what they are looking at. Don't try to deceive customers as it can cause future problems with sales and servicing.

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6 Future Potential

Lastly, consider your future potential and opportunities for growth when assessing your value. If you're committed to ongoing education and skill development, make sure to communicate this to your employer. Your willingness to learn and adapt is a valuable asset, especially in an industry that's constantly evolving with new technologies. Discuss how investing in your growth aligns with the company's goals and can lead to mutual benefits down the line.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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James Carey

Need money 🤑. Never got a credit card in my name.
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Reconnecting with previous customers and enquiring how were the experiences and asking them for feedback on how things could be improved and also for any accolades..............

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Here's how you can assess your value and secure a just salary in the mechanics field.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Yourself

2 Market Rates

3 Experience Counts

4 Special Skills

5 Negotiation Tactics

6 Future Potential

7 Here’s what else to consider

Mechanics

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Here's how you can assess your value and secure a just salary in the mechanics field.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Yourself

2 Market Rates

3 Experience Counts

4 Special Skills

5 Negotiation Tactics

6 Future Potential

7 Here’s what else to consider

Mechanics

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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