Does Walmart hire actual auto mechanics for their automotive department or just people that learn on the job?

As evidenced by job listings on Indeed.com for Walmart Auto Care Technicians, prior knowledge and experience is required to work in the automotive department performing maintenance and repair jobs. Auto Care Center Technicians will be required to perform such tasks as oil changes, battery and wiper replacements, and tire replacements and rotations. Some listings also indicate that it a Motor Vehicle Inspection License is preferred for applicants, and others list that one year of experience is preferred. The type of experience varies between postings, but is usually listed as relevant experience or experience as a service technician. Some listings also indicate that some auto care departments would be willing to train applicants who are particularly motivated and could demonstrate an ability to easily pick up new skills; however, it is still stated that prior experience is preferred.

For more information on working as an auto mechanic, check out this article: Auto Mechanic: Job Duties of a Professional Auto Mechanic