FAQ
Tire Builder FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a tire builder.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a tire builder: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about tire builders
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects little change.
Is pay good?
Tire plant pay is often solid.
How much does a tire builder make?
The median annual wage for tire builders was $57,390 ($27.59 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $40,150 and the highest 10% earned more than $74,680.
How long does it take to become a tire builder?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a tire builder?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is tire builder a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +0.8% from 2025–35 (little or no change), with about 1,900 openings each year. Upsides include good plant pay; a common challenge is that repetitive.
What skills does a tire builder need?
Key technical skills include tire building, splicing, component handling, and inspection. Employers also value attention to detail, speed, and reliability.
What certifications are available for tire builders?
Common credentials include Plant training, OSHA 10, Quality training, and Forklift certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Tire Builder fit quiz, compare with Tire Technician, or explore Tire Builder training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-9197 (Tire builders).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Tire builders (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.