What does a master craftsman in the automotive sector earn?

As a master mechanic, you have an important role in the company: You take on responsibility, lead teams and ensure quality. But what about the salary of a master mechanic?

In this article, you will find out what you can earn as a master car mechanic, what differences there are to mechatronics engineers and what career opportunities await you in the trade.

The salary as a master car mechanic

The salary as a master mechanic can vary depending on experience, location and company size. Generally speaking, the average monthly salary in this area is:

• Master car mechanic in Germany: approx. 3,500 € gross
• Entry-level car mechanic: often around €3,100 gross
• Experienced master mechanics: up to €4,200 gross

Source (Stepstone, 2024)

As a comparison: How much do you earn net as a vehicle mechatronics technician, which is on average less than the salary of a master craftsman? Automotive mechatronics technicians without a master's degree have less responsibility.

Where do the differences in the salaries of master car mechanics come from?

Why do some car mechanics earn more than others? The differences in salary can be attributed to various factors:

• Professional experience: Salaries generally increase with experience. For example, an experienced master mechanic can earn higher wages at large car dealerships or specialized workshops.
• Regional differences: In economically strong regions and large cities such as Munich or Frankfurt, wages are often significantly higher to compensate for the higher cost of living.
• Company size and industry: Larger companies or specialized workshops, such as contract workshops of premium car manufacturers, often offer better salaries and more additional benefits.

Training can also play a role. Find out more about the training salary for automotive mechatronics technicians if you are still in the early years of your career.

Your career opportunities in the automotive sector

As a master mechanic, you have exciting opportunities for advancement that can increase your responsibility and often your salary. Further training is a good first step. Additional qualifications, for example in vehicle diagnostics, electromobility or operations management, make you particularly valuable to employers and give you the chance to take on specialized tasks and better-paid positions.

Another option is the position of operations manager or workshop manager. In this role, you will be responsible for the organization of workshop processes, personnel management and customer satisfaction. This position not only offers a higher salary, but also long-term career prospects.

For some, self-employment is also an interesting option, for example with their own workshop. However, this path is not suitable for everyone, as it can involve more risks and less stability. Of course, as a self-employed person you can take a day off and also have the chance of higher income, but you are solely responsible for ensuring that you don't drive your business into the wall. 

If you are considering becoming a master craftsman, you will find helpful information here.

Find jobs in the automotive sector with WorkerHero

Are you ready to take your career in the automotive sector to the next level? At WorkerHero you will find numerous job offers for automotive technicians and mechatronics engineers, even if you are not yet fluent in German. Whether you're just starting out in your career or looking for new challenges - WorkerHero supports you every step of the way!