Automotive Job Overview and Description

With the number of vehicles in use continuing to rise, more technicians will be needed to perform basic maintenance and repair. There is some concern with new technologies, such as electric vehicles, limiting future demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics.

Currently, job growth for automotive workers is projected at 6 percent over the next few years.


What are Automotive jobs?

Automotive technicians inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks. They often use computerized diagnostic equipment to identify problems, test parts and systems to ensure that they work properly.


Automotive Job Overview

Automotive workers will spend most of the day standing. They typically work in well-ventilated and well-lit repair shops. Technicians sometimes work in uncomfortable positions when working on a vehicle and handle greasy parts and tools. Most work full-time, with overtime being common. Technicians may also work evenings or weekends.


What are the different types of Automotive jobs?

  • Automotive air-conditioning technicians. Install and repair air-conditioners and parts. Must be trained and certified in handling refrigerants.
  • Brake Technicians. Diagnose and make repairs on brake systems.
  • Drivability technicians/Diagnostic technicians. Diagnose issues that prevent engines from performing efficiently.
  • Front-end technicians. Use special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines to correct problems with ride, handling and tire-wear.
  • Transmission technicians and rebuilders. Diagnose electrical and hydraulic problems. Work on gear trains, couplings, hydraulic pumps, and other parts of transmissions.

What type of education do you need for an Automotive job?

Taking high school courses in automotive repair, electronics, computers, and mathematics provide a good background for prospective service technicians. However, high school graduates typically need further training to become fully qualified.

Vocational or postsecondary education program in automotive technology is the best path for entry level technicians. Programs can last anywhere from 6 month to a year.

Some technicians get associates degrees that cover subjects such as mathematics, electronics and automotive repair. Some automobile manufacturers and dealers sponsor associate degree programs.


What is a typical salary for an Automotive job?

The median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics is around $39,550. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $22,610 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $65,430.

Many experienced technicians and that work for automotive dealers and independent repair shops receive commission related to the labor cost charged to the customers.


What are the job requirements for Automotive jobs?

Technicians who work with refrigerants are required by the EPA are required to be certified in proper refrigerant handling.

Certification from the ASE is the standard credential for service technicians. ASE certification is available for several different specialty areas. To become certified, technicians must have at least 2 years of experience (of relevant schooling and 1 year of experience) and pass an exam.

Other important qualities that technicians should have include customer service skills, excelling mechanical and troubleshooting skills, and must be detail-oriented and highly organized.

Physical strength and dexterity is also important as technicians must sometimes lift and maneuver heavy parts and many tasks require steady hands and good hand-eye coordination.


Where can you find an Automotive job listing?

You can search for an Automotive job listing through websites like CareerBuilder, Monster, Indeed, SimplyHired, and JobsInEachState.com. You can also check your local papers or do a general web search for your area for Automotive jobs. Applicants can also inquire for work by visiting local repair shops in their area.

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