transportation

How To Get A Job As An Auto Mechanic Or Automotive Service Technician

With nearly every adult owning at least one vehicle today,  skilled, reliable Auto Mechanics often play a very prominent part in our lives.

Successful Otto Mechanics are honest, detail oriented, well-organized, patient, observant, and have good analytical, diagnostic, and reasoning skills.  They are also mechanically minded.  It is essential that Auto Mechanics have excellent customer service skills.  Auto Service Technicians must be able to read well as they must keep up to date with all the latest advances in auto technology.

Auto Mechanics must be physically fit as their work involves bending, stooping, lifting and carrying.  Tools must be kept in good working order and the work area must be kept clean and neat to avoid accidents.  Most Mechanics work a regular forty hour week, although some overtime may occasionally be required.

There is an ongoing need for dependable, skilled, well-trained  mechanics.

If you get a job as an Automotive Service Technician your duties may vary depending on where you work, and the level of your experience.  In general, Auto Mechanics conduct routine maintenance, following an established check list,  change oil, rotate tires, and lubricate engines.  If the client reports a problem, the Mechanic considers their opinions, does a preliminary inspection of the vehicle involving visual observations, running the engine, and possibly a test drive.  They then perform diagnostic tests, discuss a course of action with the client, make repairs, repair or replace worn parts, take the car for another test drive, and again report to the client.  When the client picks up the vehicle, the Auto Mechanic may explain in detail what they have done, answer clients’ questions, and possibly give advice.

There are various places you may find employment if you become an Auto Mechanic.  These include car dealerships, auto repair centers, and car rental agencies.  Some Auto Mechanics have their own shops and others go on to teach auto mechanics.

Education

If you are still in high school and have already decided that you would like to get a job as an Auto Mechanic, take courses in mathematics, English, computers, physics, chemistry, book-keeping, and any auto shop or mechanical training available.

You must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

To be competitive, you must then get formal training in auto mechanics.  Such training is available in trade schools, technical schools, vocational schools, and community colleges.  Courses last from one to two years, and are a combination of academic learning and hands-on experience.  You can get an associates’ degree in auto mechanics from a community college.  An associates’ degree would be a decided advantage.

There are some apprenticeship training programs available which are a good option for those who do not wish to commit to a longer training period.

Do some investigating before you choose a training program.  Some have age restrictions.  Make sure to choose a program that is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.  Such courses will prepare you to get your Automotive Service Excellence Certification.  Certification is now being demanded by many employers.

There are eight areas for certification including such specialties as brake systems, suspension and steering, electrical systems, engine repair, heating and air-conditioning, etc.  To get a certification, you must have two years experience and pass a certification exam.  Those who become certified in all eight areas will obtain the title of Master Automobile Technicians.

When you are looking for employment it is always wise to find a shop that, guarantees your future by offering opportunities for obtaining advanced professional development.