While it used to be that everyone wanted a college degree, things are changing nowadays. The “trades” (such as auto mechanics, plumbers, and hairdressers) are beginning to get more attention. The reason? You can make as much, if not more, in a skilled trade as you can with a “useless” college degree. Many industries are looking for employees with valuable skills. Demand is robust across plumbing, electrical, construction, and mechanical fields.
Demand is so high that even a newly minted graduate can be hired “on the spot” or even given a job offer BEFORE graduation. Auto repair techs and SMOG techs fall into his category, too. Most smog testing and repair station owners appreciate a technician who can hit the ground running with skills in auto repair and/or smog check. A Smog Technician Certification, or SCT, can be an in-demand addition to one’s resume and open doors to new opportunities in the exciting field of auto repair. Many entry-level smog technicians can earn around $45k-$55k annually. Not too bad for a new Grease Monkey, right?
The benefits of a career in smog testing and repair are significant for the individual: high pay and a good, solid, in-demand career. In addition, this kind of work has meaning. It supports California’s environmental goals. Who doesn’t want cleaner air? Emissions testing in California is strict, and drivers must comply with clean air regulations. Smog technicians ensure automobiles meet California emissions standards. All of this sounds good, right? Well, there’s a catch. The catch is that, except for the part where, after all the training and work, a technician may an “accusation letter” or “suspension letter” from the Bureau of Automotive Repair. The Bureau can revoke one’s license due to failure to comply with state regulations.
If You’re a Smog Technician Who’s Received a STAR Citation, It’s Time to Find Out Who Has Your Back
If you’re a technician who’s received a Bureau of Automotive Repair suspension, your employer’s response may be significant. In some cases, the SMOG shop owner will support their technician. They’ve seen the work you’ve done and know the Bureau of Auto Repair can be sneaky at times (for example, they send out “undercover cars”). A shop owner might stand up for their employee. They might help you find the best defense lawyer to protect your rights against the Bureau of Automotive Repair.
On the other hand, some shop owners are not very supportive. They don’t want to deal with any “issues” and might blame the tech and let them go. For these reasons, even technicians need to be savvy about regulatory compliance.
One unique detail about our law firm is that many of our lawyers were SMOG technicians before becoming lawyers. They’ve gone through the complex process it takes to become a smog testing professional. And we understand how discouraging it is when you’ve invested a significant part of your life in becoming a top-notch smog technician and are accused of wrongdoing. It’s demoralizing, but it’s also the moment when you learn who really has your back. Our legal defense team will listen to your side, gather evidence, and support you to the fullest extent of the law if we have to fight actions from the Bureau of Auto Repair.