To be a mechanic in the automotive industry, you must have a high school diploma. Some programs, however, do not require this. The Automotive Youth Education Services program is available to high school students from certain areas. These programs are designed to give both academic and hands-on training in automotive technology. The field offers courses at vocational schools and community colleges as well. This field offers training in math, electronics and automotive repair. You may need either a high school diploma, or a GED depending on what level you are looking to attain.
Career opportunities
The field of automotive mechanics is on the rise and there are many opportunities for potential mechanics. Entry-level jobs often require a postsecondary certification. Short-term, two-year certificate programs are also available. Many employers require certification in the industry. The program must include training in mathematics, computers, and electronic design. Getting ASE certification can help you advance in your career. ASE offers assistance in obtaining certification for auto mechanics.
This field has many opportunities and is immune to economic fluctuations. The constant demand for mechanics is due to people continuing to own cars. There are many entry-level roles available including ownership, management, dealership and specialized services. This field offers many opportunities, regardless of where you reside in the United States. This is a career that appeals to people who are good at communicating and have a passion for cars.
Employment market
An auto mechanic job requires certain education. Most employers prefer applicants with at-least a high school diploma. Other certifications, like ASE Master Certification and ASE Master Certification, require a written examination. Additional certifications make a mechanic more marketable. Employers may offer training for employees. Here are the auto mechanic education requirements. These courses will help you get in touch with employers.
The experience you have is important, too. Experiential mechanics are more autonomous. Experienced mechanics have greater flexibility than those with less. Some people may want to be self-employed, but there are also jobs available with a large company. This isn't the best career option for everyone. There are still opportunities to progress in either situation. There is a growing job market for auto mechanics. Consider this career path before you start.
Training options
For an aspiring auto technician, there are many options for training. Most include hands-on training with automobiles, and other mechanical devices. This training allows students to learn about modern cars and how they work, such as engine repair and diagnosis. You may also be able to take courses in technical writing, industrial psychology, and accounting. A dealership may also allow auto mechanics to work on cars and trucks. Depending upon the type of business, an auto mechanic training program can lead you to a position as a service technician or advisor.
After high school, auto mechanics can enroll in formal training programs. These programs are typically six to twelve months long and combine classroom instruction with hands on experience. There are certificate programs for auto mechanics. These programs can be found at most community colleges and vocational schools. Some auto manufacturers sponsor associate degree programs for two years that allow students to work in a service shop as well as classes. A diploma is not required to work, but many employers prefer mechanics with ASE certification.
Certification requirements
Automotive technician certification requires students to understand all mechanical and electrical systems in vehicles. Students must also be able use basic safety procedures and computer diagnostic equipment. The program prepares students in a range of careers, such as becoming an automotive service technician or a diagnostician. Students have the option of completing their education either full-time on weekdays or part-time on Saturdays. Also, there are programs that can be enrolled in throughout the year.
To become an ASE Master mechanic, you must pass all eight A Series tests. This is a highly-regarded title that indicates you can perform high-quality tasks. After you have completed the program, you will need to renew your certification every five years. ASE certification is a valuable credential that will give you credibility and acknowledge that you've achieved something noteworthy in the field of automotive repair.
FAQ
How long does an apprenticeship in automotive mechanics last?
An automotive mechanic apprenticeship takes around three years to complete. The apprenticeship includes two years studying at school and two more as an apprentice. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. You'll also learn the safe and efficient use of tools during this first year. After you have completed the first year of training, you will be able to spend an additional year on-the job learning different trades. These periods will also give you the chance to take formal courses.
The final year of the program is spent gaining qualifications and becoming certified in the field. These include NVQs, which are obtained after passing industry-specific exams. There are also HNCs (Higher National Certificates), which cover general subjects like management, business administration, customer service, and more. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
What kind of car mechanic jobs exists?
There are three major areas of employment that car mechanics work in:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
It's where most people start to think about becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You can either work at a shop owned by someone else or set up your own business.
If you choose to work at a store, you need to join a union. Once you're accepted into the union, you'll receive training from the union.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
If you decide to open your own garage, you'll need to register with the government. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
When you've registered, you'll be given a license to operate your garage.
You can sell spare parts or do minor repairs with your license. You can't fix major engine problems with your license.
In addition to selling spare parts, you'll also be expected to offer advice and guidance to customers.
Dealership jobs
Many dealerships have mechanics who are experts in one particular area. For instance, they may only be qualified to fix brakes or change tires.
Some dealers also have general mechanics that can handle all aspects.
Many of these positions require that applicants undergo training before they are allowed to work. Employers are able to choose which candidates will best suit their position.
Some dealerships will hire graduates straight from college. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages are not associated with any companies so they can afford higher wages. As a result, these jobs are generally better paid than those at dealerships.
Independent garages don't necessarily make for better work environments. Many owners prefer to control their businesses themselves, rather than delegating it to employees.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
It is also possible to expect lower wages than you would if working at a dealer.
You can switch jobs easily. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
If you prefer to work in an independent garage, you might consider applying directly to its owner.
It's not always easy to find a job. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
For example, the type of vehicle you repair and whether you charge extra for labor.
How can I prepare myself for a mechanic apprenticeship
Understanding what you're getting into is crucial. It is important to know the basics of how cars work. This will help you to plan your first day in the garage.
You will also need to learn how to fix simple problems like tires and broken lights.
This should help you learn how to diagnose issues and repair them yourself.
To put the pieces back together, you will also need to understand how they fit together.
Finally, you should be able use tools safely.
All these aspects will help you become a competent technician.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to Become an Auto Technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she works with customers to repair their cars and trucks, ATVs or snowmobiles. An automotive technician must have the ability to quickly diagnose and fix problems.
An associate degree from a vocational school is required for anyone who wishes to become an automotive technician. After completing the program, he/she must pass ASE certification. ASE stands as American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. To take the test, you must visit one of the approved testing locations. These locations are available online or through your local automotive dealer.
Before becoming an automotive technician, a candidate must pass the test. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. In addition, some states license technicians immediately after they receive their license, while others wait until they have completed at least six months of employment as an automotive technician.
An applicant should apply to a local auto shop in order to start their career as an automotive technician. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. Apprenticeships typically last 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 taught how to repair engines and replace transmission fluids. Most schools offer classes during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
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 also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. Many employers prefer to hire Journeymen because they understand the job well.
Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), almost 1.7million automotive mechanic jobs were on the market. This figure is expected to rise 18 percent between 2009-2020. Candidates who decide to open their own business should be prepared to invest thousands in equipment and supplies.
There are many factors that affect the salary of an automotive technician, such as where they live, their education and experience. A jobless person could make an average of $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. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $27,000 per year. Masters' degree holders earn around $32,000 per annum. Salary increases can be common. A professional who earns less that $30,000 today could reasonably expect a $40,000 increase in the next few decades.