Auto Tech vs Machinist
Side-by-side salary, job growth, and training comparison for 2026
Auto Tech
$47,770
National Median Salary
Total Jobs794,600
Annual Openings69,000
Training1-2 yr certificate
Machinist
$51,720
National Median Salary
Total Jobs384,700
Annual Openings35,400
Training1-2 yr certificate or apprenticeship
Metric
Auto Tech
Machinist
Median Salary National, BLS 2023 | $47,770 | $51,720* |
Total Jobs Current employment | 794,600* | 384,700 |
Annual Job Openings New + replacement | 69,000* | 35,400 |
Training Time | 1-2 yr certificate | 1-2 yr certificate or apprenticeship |
* indicates higher/better value. Source: BLS OES 2023.
Top States for Auto Techs
Alaska$68,430
Washington$62,180
Connecticut$61,340
Hawaii$60,780
California$59,230
Top States for Machinists
Alaska$78,430
Connecticut$74,890
Washington$72,340
California$70,120
Massachusetts$68,450