February 13, 2026

What the automotive job market looks like in Chester

Intro

Chester continues to be a strong location for automotive jobs, offering a mix of main dealers, independent garages, and specialist workshops across the city and surrounding areas.

Its position close to both North Wales and the North West makes it an attractive hub for motor trade professionals looking for opportunity without the pressures of larger cities.

Current demand in Chester

Across Chester and the wider Cheshire area, we’re seeing steady demand for experienced Vehicle Technicians, Service Advisors, and Workshop Controllers. Employers are particularly keen on candidates with strong diagnostics experience and those who can offer long-term stability.

Due to the ongoing skills shortage, experienced technicians remain highly sought after, and good candidates rarely stay available for long.

Average salaries and earnings

Salaries in the Chester area are competitive, reflecting demand across Cheshire and nearby regions.

As a general guide:

  • Vehicle Technicians can expect strong basic salaries, often with bonus or overtime structures

  • Service Advisors within main dealer environments continue to attract competitive packages

  • Diagnostic and senior technicians can command higher salaries due to demand

Chester offers the benefit of competitive earnings while maintaining a strong work-life balance.

Living in and around Chester

Chester is known for its quality of life, historic city centre, and surrounding countryside. While house prices can be higher than in some nearby towns, many professionals choose surrounding areas such as Ellesmere Port, Deeside, Wrexham, and Winsford for more affordable options.

This gives candidates flexibility when considering location and commuting.

Transport and commuting

Chester benefits from strong transport links, including:

  • Easy access to the M53 and M56 motorways

  • Direct rail connections to Liverpool, Manchester, and North Wales

  • A wide commuting catchment across Cheshire and North Wales

These links help employers attract candidates from a broader area and make daily travel manageable.

What this means for candidates

For candidates, Chester offers a balance of strong employment demand and quality of life. Skilled professionals often have options available, particularly within technician and service roles.

If you’re considering a move within the Chester area, you can view our latest permanent automotive jobs here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/jobs

What this means for employers

For employers, hiring in Chester means competing for skilled professionals in a tight market. Clear salary structures, efficient hiring processes, and strong workplace culture are increasingly important.

Employers can also view live candidate profiles to see who is currently available here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/employers/candidate-profile-search

For a confidential discussion about hiring in Chester or the wider Cheshire area, you can contact us directly here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/contact-us

Final thoughts

The automotive job market in Chester remains competitive but stable, supported by strong transport links, good quality of life, and continued demand for skilled professionals.

At C&B Recruitment, we specialise in permanent motor trade jobs and automotive jobs, supporting employers and candidates through specialist motor trade recruitment and automotive recruitment across the UK.

Meet Our Recruiter