Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Career
Automotive service technicians and mechanics are the professionals who keep our vehicles running safely and efficiently by identifying and fixing automotive problems, whether it’s repairing vehicles or replacing defective parts. Their knowledge of computerized diagnostic equipment helps them accurately diagnose a problem and provide the owner with a repair plan.
Automotive service technicians perform basic maintenance like oil changes, tune-ups or tire installation and rotation as well as handling major problems that may require an engine rebuild or a similar issue.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Career Snapshot
Automotive service techs work in automotive shops and car dealerships or may own their own automotive business. While some automotive technicians cover all areas of automotive repair and maintenance, others choose to specialize in specific areas such as transmission rebuilds, engine rebuild and replacements, air conditioning, brakes or emissions, among others. They generally work during the day, although, some may work evenings or even offer 24/7 service for emergencies.
Further details on a career as an automotive mechanic and service technician are listed below (statistics from the May 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics and Onet Online):
is the average yearly pay for automotive service technicians and mechanics.
increase in employment between 2014 and 2024.
of automotive master mechanics have a post-secondary certificate.
Automotive Mechanic Education
Automotive service technicians may receive on-the-job training but typically complete a formal training program that includes an internship at an automotive service center for hands-on training. The programs generally take from six months to two years to complete and result in certificates or associate degrees. Additionally, aspiring automotive technicians and mechanics obtain certification from agencies like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Auto mechanics can take exams and become ASE-certified in nine areas of automotive repair.
Automotive Mechanic Job Duties
Automotive service technicians have many job duties, including replacing and balancing tires; changing oil and other fluids, performing annual maintenance checks, and diagnosing engine, transmission, electrical or emission problems. They also work with warranty companies and dealerships, schedule appointments and handle billing.
Automotive Mechanic Salaries
Automotive service technicians and mechanics nationwide earned an average annual salary of $37,850 as of May 2015, according to the BLS.gov. Those in the lowest ten percent earned about $21,020 while the top ninety percent earned $63,330. Factors that may affect wage potential include experience, certifications obtained, employer and geographic location. The states with the highest wages include District of Columbia, Alaska, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Maryland.
Automotive Mechanic Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that automotive service technicians should see an employment growth of about five percent from 2004-2014. While auto techs continue to be in demand to keep vehicles in good condition, the increase in use of electric vehicles may decrease their employment opportunities.
Automotive Mechanic Skills & Traits
| Automotive Mechanic Skill Set: | Required Abilities: | Tools Used by Automotive Mechanics: | Typical Work Activities: |
|---|---|---|---|
| • Equipment Maintenance • Repairing • Troubleshooting • Equipment Selection • Quality Control Analysis | • Arm-Hand Steadiness • Control Precision • Finger Dexterity • Problem Sensitivity | • Modular diagnostic information systems • Pullers • punches • Wrenches • Voltage meters | • Getting Information • Operating Vehicles and Mechanized Devices • Maintaining Mechanical Equipment |
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