Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Automotive service technicians and mechanics have the ability to diagnose and repair automobile problems. Those with strong problem solving skills and a knowledge of math and electronics will have promising futures in this field.
Career Opportunities
The job of an automotive service technician and mechanic has changed drastically in recent years. Most automobiles run on complex computers. Technicians and mechanics are now faced with technological advances and must be trained to work with these new systems. Basic responsibilities include inspection, repair, and maintenance of cars and light trucks that operate on gasoline. When a customer first detects an electrical or mechanical problem, the technician or mechanic obtains a description of the trouble. He must then use a diagnostic approach. He tests a variety of parts to determine which one is causing the problem. Traditional hand tools and computers are used to locate the trouble spot. Many service technicians and mechanics specialize in a field. Larger automotive repair shops use an assembly line approach. Each specialized mechanic focuses work on his area. Some examples of specialists are transmission technicians and rebuilders, tune-up technicians, automotive air-conditioning repairers, front-end mechanics, and brake repairers.
Automotive Technology Schools
Necessary Qualifications
Completion of an automotive technician or mechanic program is usually necessary for employment. High schools, community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools offer a variety of programs. Community colleges offer a two-year associate degree. However, some mechanics drop out before the two years is over earning a certificate instead. This is sufficient in obtaining a job. Trade and vocational school programs often last six months to a year. Some automobile manufacturers offer two-year programs throughout the United States. These programs entail six-week periods of full-time classes interspersed with periods of full-time work in dealerships. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certification to technicians and mechanics with two years of hands-on experience and a passing score on a written exam. Technicians can become certified in electrical systems, engine repair, heating and air-conditioning, or a variety of other fields. Certification is voluntary but is recommended. Automotive service technicians and mechanics should be problem solvers with good mathematics and computer skills. Reading skills are vital, as most are required to follow manufacturer’s manuals to complete repairs.
Earnings and Advancement
Automotive service technicians and mechanics who possess necessary experience often advance to supervisory or management roles. Some open their own repair shops. Those with strong customer service skills often become automotive repair service estimators. Earnings fall between $8.00 and $25.00 an hour. Most technicians work forty hours per week. Many receive a guaranteed weekly salary. Commissions are then earned based on completed work and the cost of labor charged to the customer. Most automotive service technicians and mechanics are responsible for purchasing their own hand tools. Some larger manufacturers give technicians the opportunity to purchase them at a reduced cost.
To learn more about local automotive tech career training programs go here.
*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.
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copyright 2005
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