You might be interested in a career as an automotive electrician. These highly skilled professionals use their mechanical skills and diagnostic tools to fix electrical problems in cars. They are responsible for troubleshooting and installing electrical components. Along with troubleshooting problems in electrical systems, automotive electricians also install new components into vehicles. Depending on the area of specialization, an automotive electrician can earn a range of salaries.
Job outlook for automotive electricians
Automotive electricians work in automobile dealerships as well as mechanic's shops. They must be knowledgeable about all types cars, including classics, hybrids, and electric vehicles. You may have different job options depending on your company. To be successful as an automotive electrician, you must know what kind and how much training you need. You may also need a special driving permit to work in the automobile industry.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are expected to be approximately five million openings in the field of automotive electrical work over the next decade. This is below average growth. Also, the current workforce isn't capable of replacing the aging Baby Boomers. They will make up the majority (over 80%) of all automotive electricians working by 2024. This means that if you have an interest in this field, now is the time to get started.
Job duties
Automotive electricians need to be familiar with many car models and makes. While most of them work 40 hour weeks, some may work shifts or be on call. Their hours generally fall between eight am and six pm, though they may be required to work outside during adverse weather. A shop can be set up to allow them to become self-employed. Automotive electricians are most often employed in mechanics shops.
Automotive electricians are responsible for maintaining and installing electrical systems within cars. Automotive electricians may specialize in a particular model or make of vehicle, such as vans, trucks, and buses. Because the wiring and electrical systems of motor vehicles can differ from one model to another, they must be able to communicate with them. Employers prefer applicants with an associate degree or certificate in the relevant field. Apprenticeships are also possible for people with a highschool diploma.
Training requirements
A career as an automotive electrician requires several education requirements. This career requires a high school diploma, or GED. You should also take additional math and English classes. For employment, you will often need a full driver’s license. Automotive electricians may be able to pursue apprenticeships. Employers may require you to have a driver's licence or a special license in order to work on certain types vehicles.
An automotive electrician does not need any specific training, but he or she should have a high-school diploma or GED. Apprenticeships allow you to gain valuable experience while making a living. College courses that are relevant to this industry can also provide candidates with the necessary training. Light vehicle maintenance, automotive system studies, and motor vehicle studies are just a few of the relevant courses. Candidates will gain valuable work experience by shadowing an automobile electrician. After graduating, candidates can apply for a position as a vehicle electrician.
Salary
Automotive electricians have a wide range of salaries. The types of systems they work on and the employers they work for all contribute to the range of earnings. The transportation industry is expected to see this job grow as more vehicles depend on electrical systems. These are some of the most popular salaries for automotive electrical contractors. You can read on to learn more about the career. Automotive electricians use tools and instruments to repair and test electronic systems in cars. They also often communicate with customers to provide advice on repairs or replacements.
Many automotive electricians have their own training. After starting out as mechanics, they gradually develop advanced electrical knowledge. Some mechanics with a knack for wiring end up choosing this specialization, which is more stable as well as higher-paying than general mechanic work. Some auto manufacturers and large transit systems may hire apprentices, as well. These workers usually receive extensive training while working for their employer. After becoming certified, electricians are paid $64,286 per annum.
FAQ
How long is an automotive mechanic apprenticeship
The apprenticeship to become an automotive mechanic takes about three years. This includes two year at school as well as two years as an apprenticeship. The first year is used to learn all aspects of the trade including safety procedures and theory. This year, you will also learn how to safely and efficiently use tools. After the first year, a second year will be spent on-thejob training. This year you'll get experience in different trades. These periods will also give you the chance to take formal courses.
The last year of your program will be spent earning qualifications and becoming certified. These include NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), which are awarded after passing exams covering specific topics within the industry. In addition, there are HNCs (Higher National Certificates) that cover general subjects such as management, business administration, and customer service. Finally, there are City & Guilds certificates that are offered for those who wish to become qualified in certain trades.
What is the best career for an automotive mechanic?
For those who are passionate about excellence, automotive is a rewarding industry. Working hard and learning from others is the best way to be successful in this field.
Excellent communication skills are essential as you will spend most of the time speaking to customers or other employees. You must also be willing and able to travel long distances, which can make it difficult to commute.
You can take classes at universities and community colleges if you are interested in a career as an automotive technician. Many schools offer programs designed specifically for students interested auto repair, sales, and customer services.
Mechanical engineering is a good choice if you are interested in pursuing a degree. You can get your bachelor's degree in as little as four years.
In addition, many companies will hire graduates straight out of school. It's a smart idea to begin looking for work while you have the opportunity to study part-time.
After you complete your education, you may need to undergo some type of training before you can become an automotive technician.
This means you'll need pass exams like the Automotive Services Excellence (ASE), certification exam. This test covers engine maintenance and brakes as well as suspension.
After passing the ASE exam, you can apply for a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence license.
A license permits you to repair private vehicles. You will be compensated based on how many services you performed.
Not all states require licensing. A license is required if you plan on working outside of your home state.
Some states will not issue licenses until an individual has completed certain training. This may be the case for you.
What length of an automotive course is it?
An automotive course lasts for three years.
The first year is spent learning about cars and theory. The second year is spent on practical training where you learn how to drive, fix engines, and do other mechanical jobs around the car. The last year of your training is spent on practical training, where you learn how to fix real-world problems.
What are the different types of jobs available in car mechanic?
For car mechanics, there are three main areas for employment:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people consider becoming a mechanic. It's actually the easiest way to start. Either work for someone else's shop or you can start your own.
If you are interested in working at a shop you will need to apply for membership to a union. After being accepted into the union, the union will provide training.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
If you plan to open your own garage you will need to register with government. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
After you register, you will be granted a license for your garage to operate.
Your license will allow you to sell spare parts and do minor repairs. It will not permit you to fix major engine issues.
In addition to selling spare parts, you'll also be expected to offer advice and guidance to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. They might be able to only fix brakes or replace tires.
Some dealerships hire general mechanics to handle all aspects of car repair.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships will hire graduates straight from college. These graduates are already familiar with basic mechanics and can therefore learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages are not associated with any one dealership. Instead, they tend to focus on providing high-quality service.
Because independent garages aren't affiliated with any company, they can afford to pay higher wages. These jobs generally pay better than those at dealerships.
Independent garages can be just as good places to work, but this does not mean they are better. Many business owners prefer to own their businesses and not delegate the responsibility to others.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
Expect to earn lower salaries than if you were working in a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. You can switch jobs easily if you are interested in working at a dealership. Simply ask your employer if they would be open to hiring you as a mechanic.
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. You can earn more depending on many other factors.
For example, the type of vehicle you repair and whether you charge extra for labor.
Is it worthwhile to become a mechanic?
The answer to this question will depend on your goals for life. If you are looking for financial gain, then yes. However, if purpose and meaning are what you seek, then no.
If you don’t possess any mechanics skills, you won’t be able to do it. You won't become rich from it. It won't make your name famous. And it's unlikely to change your life.
You'd need to spend years learning how everything works. This would mean that you would have to pay someone else for your car's repair. Most people avoid doing this. They find something else to do.
Summarising, if your goal is to make lots of money, go for it. But if you want to live a meaningful life, stay away from the mechanic's industry.
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 Become an Auto Technician
Automotive technicians provide repair and maintenance services to vehicles. He/she can be found at auto shops, garages and service centers. He/she repairs cars, trucks, motorbikes and snowmobiles for customers. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
A person who wants to work as an automotive technician should first obtain an associate degree from a vocational school. After completing this program, he/she must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists two sections. One section tests mechanical knowledge; the second section tests 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.
After passing the exam, a candidate must take a state exam before being licensed as an automobile technician. The process will vary depending on where an applicant lives. Some states require that applicants attend a training class, while others allow them freedom to study at their own pace. 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. During this time, a student learns how to perform basic repairs, such as changing oil, adjusting brakes, replacing tires, cleaning spark plugs, inspecting engine compartments, and performing routine maintenance. Advanced repairs can be done by some students, including replacing shocks, installing air filters and repairing engines. Schools offer classes during business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
When a student has completed his/her apprenticeship, they become a journeyman. Journeymen spend typically four to five years learning to install major systems such as transmissions and differentials, steering gear, suspensions and drive shafts. They are also taught how to troubleshoot electrical components and remanufacture engines. Because they have the experience and knowledge to do the job right, employers love hiring journeymen.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1.7 million automotive mechanic jobs were available in 2010. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. Candidates who decide to open their own business should be prepared to invest thousands in equipment and supplies.
Many factors affect the automotive technician's salary, including location, education, experience, and employer type. A jobless person can expect to make $20,000 per year. A person with only a high-school diploma could make around $21,000 annually. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. Technicians with a bachelor's degree earn about $27,000 per annum. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.