Automotive mechanics work on the maintenance and repair of light trucks and cars. This field requires a mix of skills and education. Learn more about the automotive mechanic salary to maximize your education and skills. Find out more about this career path. This will help you decide if this career path is right for you. Whether you want to start a career in auto repair or simply want to learn more about the field, the following information will help you make the best decision.
Automotive mechanics have a bright future
Automotive mechanics are in good shape. There will be more vehicles on the roads, which will lead to a greater demand for qualified technicians. However, compared to the national average, this growth rate will be much slower. If you are interested in a career as an automotive mechanic, now is a great time to start your search. You can get started in this field with the right education. But how do you go about getting started?
The knowledge and skills required to be an auto service technician include computer and electronic systems, as well as the latest vehicle technologies. As technicians often work long hours, a valid driver's licence is essential. Most automotive service technicians work seven days a week. Truck and bus mechanics are typically employed for about a third of the year, while mechanical repairers work just a quarter of the year. A postsecondary education is essential for entry-level jobs, and certification is essential if you want to work in an urban area.
Education requirements
The education requirements of automotive mechanics will vary depending on which industry they are working in. Some automotive mechanics run their own businesses. Others manage a staff. No matter what industry they work in, mechanics work full-time and often work overtime. If you're interested in a full-time job as an automotive mechanic, consider earning manufacturer-specific certification. Some auto mechanics have a specialization in engine repair and brakes. However, in most cases, auto mechanics must be familiar with all components of a vehicle. It is therefore essential that they have a good understanding of all components.
Many employers prefer applicants who have completed some auto maintenance training. For entry-level positions, a high school diploma or associate's degree will suffice. However employers may prefer candidates with more experience. In addition, automotive mechanics must complete a training program approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. Once they've completed their training, they can then apply for entry-level positions at dealerships or chains of mechanics.
Career prospects
The education requirements to become a professional automotive mechanic vary by state. A postsecondary program is the best preparation for becoming a professional automotive mechanic. These graduates are often qualified to work in entry-level positions. In addition to an education, aspiring automotive mechanics can also earn on-the-job training. Here are some requirements to become an automobile mechanic.
The pay scale for an automotive technician is dependent on the level of experience. In 2019, the District of Columbia saw a median salary of $61,350 per year for automotive technicians, which is lower than the $34,290 earned in West Virginia. Working professionals can further improve their job prospects with an Associate Degree in Automotive Technology from New England Tech. Earning certification from the American Society of Automotive Technicians or ASE is also a good way to boost your career prospects. This profession is great for those who are passionate about technology and cars. It is a stable job that offers variety and stability over time.
Perspectives on employment
Automotive mechanics are highly in demand in Canada. According to the latest federal employment outlook, the number of jobs in this industry is expected to decrease slightly over the next eight years. Other studies suggest that the shortage in qualified auto technicians could grow to 80% by 2024. The transportation industry is organizing to address this shortage. Visit automotive mechanics.ca to find out more. See Automotive mechanics job outlook for more information. This occupation is becoming more complicated and specialized.
As vehicles become more reliable, the need for auto mechanics is also growing. This occupation is often self-employed. The increasing number of cars on our roads means that vehicles are more durable. Electric vehicles are an attractive option for those who work in the automotive industry. They require less maintenance and repairs. There are many new models that are easier to maintain and repair. This is in addition to the increased demand for auto mechanics. Many companies are hiring these technicians.
FAQ
What are the basics of car mechanics?
For an auto mechanic job, you don’t have to be an expert in cars. The only thing you need is the ability to fix them. This is why most people get started with simple jobs such as changing brake pads or tires. Then they move on to more difficult repairs.
You will need to understand written instructions, read diagrams and follow the basic rules of good practices. You must also be able judge if parts need to replaced or repaired.
It is important to remember that proper training and guidance are essential for anyone who attempts to repair vehicles. This is especially important if you work with expensive parts such as transmissions or engines.
Even though you won’t need to know much more about cars, you will still need to have an in-depth understanding of mechanics and physics. This means understanding the principles behind how engines work and how brakes function.
Noting that all situations are possible, it is important to be prepared. If your vehicle has been in an accident, you might need to be able to handle it. Experience with accidents and breakdowns is also a must.
You should also be open to learning quickly. Not only will you need to be capable of diagnosing problems, but you also need to be able perform simple maintenance tasks like tightening nuts.
How can I prepare myself for a mechanic apprenticeship
It is important that you understand the ramifications of your actions. You need to understand the mechanics of cars and how they work. This will make it easy to find the right place to start your first day in the garage.
Also, you need to know how fix simple problems, such as tires and lights that aren't working.
This will teach you how to diagnose problems and fix them yourself.
Also, it is important to know how parts fit together so that you can put them back together.
Finally, you need to be able to safely and efficiently use tools.
These are all things that will make you a competent mechanic.
Is it worth becoming a mechanic?
This question is dependent on your life goals. If you are looking to make money, then yes. But if meaning and purpose is what you seek, then no.
It's not worth learning mechanics if you don’t have the skills. You'll waste your time. It will not make you rich. It won't make your name famous. It is unlikely that you will be made famous.
You'd need to spend years learning how everything works. Then you'd still have to pay someone else to fix your car when it breaks down. This is why most people don’t bother. They find something else to do.
Summarising, if your goal is to make lots of money, go for it. The mechanic's profession is not the right place for you if it means that you will live a fulfilled life.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
External Links
How To
How to Become an Auto Technician
An automotive technician performs repairs and maintains vehicles. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
If you want to be an automotive technician, you need an associate degree from vocational school. After completing this program, he/she will need to pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence's (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Two sections make up the ASE certification examination. The first section tests for mechanical knowledge, the second for practical skills. You must attend one of the authorized testing sites to take the test. You can find these locations online or through your local automobile dealer.
Before becoming an automotive technician, a candidate must pass the test. This process can vary depending on where the applicant lives. Some states require applicants to take a training course while others allow them the freedom to study on their own. Some states require technicians to be licensed immediately upon receiving their license. Other states wait until they have been employed as automotive technicians for at least six month.
A person must apply to an auto dealership in order to get started as an automobile technician. Most new employees begin as apprentices once they are hired. Apprenticeships last for three years. The apprenticeship program teaches students how to change oil, adjust brakes, replace tires, clean spark plugs, inspect engine compartments, and perform routine maintenance. Some students are able to perform more advanced repairs such as replacing shocks and installing air filters. Many schools offer classes during regular hours. However, there are some schools that offer evening classes for those who need them.
When a student has completed his/her apprenticeship, they become a journeyman. Journeymen typically spend four to five years learning how to install major systems, such as transmissions, differentials, steering gear, suspensions, and drive shafts. They learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Many employers prefer hiring journeymen because they know the job well and understand what the customer expects.
Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there were nearly 1.7 million jobs available for automotive mechanics in 2010. This number is expected to increase by 18% between 2009 and 2020. If a candidate decides to open his/her own shop, he/she should prepare to invest many thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies.
Many factors affect the automotive technician's salary, including location, education, experience, and employer type. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. An individual with a high school diploma can earn about $21,000 per annum. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. Salary increases are common so professionals who make less than $30,000 a year could realistically expect to earn $40,000 over the next few years.