Learn how to become an automotive body technician. Learn more about the requirements for this job, including education, experience, job duties and salaries. This article will provide information on this rewarding career path. Here are some basics. First, you will need to have either a high-school diploma or GED. Many vocational schools only require a high school diploma. Others might require SAT or ACT scores. Some high schools offer auto body repair courses.
Career outlook
Auto body technicians are in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be nearly 16,000 jobs for collision repair technicians in 2029. This is largely due to the aging baby boomers. The growth in this industry is not due to new jobs. However, certified auto body technicians will see a brighter future. After graduation, auto body technicians should expect to find good jobs, with plenty of room for career growth.
The auto industry is ever-evolving, and careers in this industry are continually changing. As a result, the field requires skilled technicians to keep up with the latest technologies. Students who successfully complete their training will have access to the most up-to-date cars and latest jobs in repair. While they may face different challenges during their career, they will still have many exciting and challenging opportunities as they continue their education.
Education necessary
For admission to an accredited vocational school, you will need a diploma from secondary school. To help students excel academically, they might want to join technical clubs. This will allow them to gain a strong customer service background and to pursue a career in engineering. Technical clubs can arrange visits to automobile dealerships or apprenticeships in repair shops. These experiences can smooth the transition to an auto body technician career. Regardless of your preferred area of expertise, you must have strong communication and analytical skills.
A college degree is not required to become an autobody technician in most cases. About 45% hold a high-school diploma or GED. An auto body technician training program may be a better option for those who have completed some college education. The time required to complete the program depends on the school. If you don't hold a college degree, however, you may still be able get the training you need in order to get the job that you want.
Job duties
A technician who works as an auto body technie is responsible for maintaining and repairing vehicles. These technicians must comply with OSHA and ASE standards. They should also adhere to specifications set forth by the manufacturer. Specifications may differ from one vehicle. This job requires attention to detail. They need to be exact in what they do. It is their customer's vehicle that they are working on.
The technician can also apply layers of fiberglass matting to repair areas. They can also use templates and power shears to cut windows that are customized. They use adhesive brushes and caulking guns to secure windows and other metal trim. Likewise, they use mallets to install vinyl material on the roof of the car. They also use hand shears in order to measure and cut the vinyl material.
Salary
Salary for an Auto Body Technician will depend on the level of experience, whereabouts and the skills required. BLS data provides information on the level of compensation for this job based upon complexity, contacts, knowledge and environment. The average annual salary for Auto Body Techs in the United States is $30,000 It is much higher in New York and California. The following table will explain how to determine the exact amount for this career.
Auto Body Technicians get different amounts depending on the state they are working in. New York is the best-paying state, with 12.2% more than the national average. The annual salary for an Auto Body Technician will vary depending on what type of work they do, where they are located, and how much experience they have. You should also consider the cost per capita in the area where your dream home is located.
FAQ
What do I need to know about car mechanics?
To be an auto mechanic, you don't have to know much about cars. All you need to know is how to fix things. That's why most people start doing jobs like fitting brake pads or changing tires before progressing to more complex repairs.
You'll need to know how to read diagrams, understand written instructions and follow basic rules of good practice. You'll also need to be able to judge whether parts need replacing or repairing.
You should not attempt to fix vehicles without proper training and guidance. This is especially true if your job involves expensive parts like 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 is how you understand the mechanisms behind engines and brakes.
It is important to realize that you must be ready for all types of situations. For instance, you might find yourself in charge of a vehicle that has been in a serious accident. You will also need to be able to deal with accidents and breakdowns.
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.
Is it hard being a mechanic apprentice
It is not easy but it can be done quickly. There are many opportunities for advancement.
You need to have patience and perseverance. You must also know how to fix cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Customers and family members can put a lot pressure on you. They want you to succeed. But you should never feel pressured into making decisions you aren't comfortable with.
This is a career that you might enjoy if you are passionate about fixing cars. It is a job you can get a decent salary for and help build your business.
Perhaps you prefer a different route. You might consider becoming a technician in this instance.
This could involve using your technical knowledge to support other employees. You might be able to assist technicians in troubleshooting problems or teach them new techniques.
Another option is to become an advisor in service. Here, you'll provide advice and assistance to customers when they bring their cars to a garage.
It all depends on your goals. There are plenty of options available, and you can choose which suits you best.
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
Car mechanics can find work in three areas:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is the place most people begin to consider becoming mechanics. This is the best way to get started. You have two options: work in an existing shop or open your own.
If you decide to work at a shop, you'll need to apply to join a union. Once you're accepted into the union, you'll receive training from the union.
Once the training is completed, you can start working.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
After you have registered, you will be issued a license to operate your garage.
Your license allows for minor repairs and spare parts sales. It won't allow you to fix major engine problems.
Apart from selling spare parts, customers will also expect you to provide guidance and advice.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. For example, they might only deal with brakes or only replace tires.
However, some dealerships also hire general mechanics who can handle all aspects of car repairs.
Some positions require that applicants complete training before they can be allowed to work. This means employers can choose which candidates are best suited for their role.
Some dealerships even recruit graduates straight from university. These graduates are familiar with the fundamentals of mechanical engineering so they can easily learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages do not belong to any dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. This means that these jobs are usually more lucrative than those at dealerships.
Independent garages can be just as good places to work, but this does not mean they are better. Many owners prefer to control their businesses themselves, rather than delegating it to employees.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
Also, expect to make lower wages than if your job was at a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. It is possible to switch between different types of jobs if your current employer would prefer you to work at a dealer.
You could also apply directly to an owner of a garage if that's what you want.
Finding a new job is not always easy. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
It could be the type and cost of labor you use to repair your vehicle.
How can I prepare myself for a mechanic apprenticeship
It is important to have an understanding of what you are going into. You need to understand the mechanics of cars and how they work. You will be able to know exactly where to begin when you arrive at the garage for your first day.
Also, you need to know how fix simple problems, such as tires and lights that aren't working.
This should help you learn how to diagnose issues and repair them yourself.
It is also important to know how the different pieces fit together in order to put them together again.
Finally, be proficient in using tools safely and efficiently.
These things will enable you to be a competent mechanic.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to get a certified mechanic
The mechanic's certificates are intended for professionals who wish to become automotive technicians. They provide a comprehensive overview of all areas related to auto repair.
The program is composed of 12 hours classroom instruction and three month's on-the-job training at participating dealers. Students must attend 60 hours of classroom instruction per semester. In addition, they must pass a written exam which includes practical and theory questions. After completing the coursework, students can take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence’s (ASE) state examination. ASE certification is required for employment as an automotive service technician.