As automobiles become more complicated, the need for specially trained automotive mechanics grows. Gone are the days when a car owner, or shade tree mechanic, could take apart and put back together their vehicle with a socket set and a repair manual. Today’s vehicles are computer controlled, complex pieces of machinery. Even discovering what’s wrong often requires a trip into a service center. This fact is what will keep auto mechanic jobs steadily on the rise, for the years to come.
There are a few innate skills a person should have, before pursuing a career as an auto mechanic. Good mechanics are people friendly. They understand that customer service is the lifeblood of the industry and often is the deciding factor on where an individual takes their car to be serviced. In an increasingly competitive industry, this can make the difference between business success and failure. Automotive mechanics spend a good deal of time talking with customers. They have to explain what the problem is with the vehicle, as well as what the options are for repairing it, and how much it will cost. Oftentimes auto mechanics have to deliver bad news, so being able to tactfully discuss the needed repairs is an important attribute for mechanics.
Those looking to pursue an auto mechanic technician job should also understand that time is of the essence, when servicing a customer’s car. If a person like to dawdle around and take their time with their work, becoming a mechanic may not be the best career path. The auto diesel mechanic job is one where time is money, since they’re not paid by the hour, but by the job. In addition, customers want their vehicles returned to them in a timely manner. Quick, quality service will set a mechanic apart from the rest.
Although a potential automotive mechanic doesn’t need to know all about cars, prior to their training, they should be mechanically inclined. A good candidate will be good at solving problems and determining how things work, as well as have a good mathematical skills and even a basic understanding of electronics. With this basic ability, training then becomes simply learning the specialized knowledge about vehicles specifically.
For those looking at becoming a mechanic, there are physical requirements as well. Automotive parts can be heavy. Candidates should be able to lift at least 40 pounds. In addition, the job entails standing most of the day, as well as kneeling and lying on concrete floors. The hours vary greatly, depending on the shop, but weekends are common, as this is often when it’s most convenient for customers to bring their vehicles in to be serviced.
Training for an entry level auto mechanic job is often offered beginning in high school. Through the Automotive Youth Education Service, high school students can earn their technician’s certification. Once an individual graduates from high school, they can continue their training at a variety of places, including: high schools, vocational schools, technical schools, and community colleges. These classes often incorporate both classroom lessons with real life training. Technical schools offer programs that last anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Community college programs often last up to 2 years, as they include core academic classes such as: math and English, needed to obtain a degree or certification.
There are also automotive training programs that are sponsored by vehicle manufactures and car dealers. These are often offered through accredited schools, and typically offer the latest training on the newest automotive technologies and meet the standards set by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation. Programs usually begin with up to 3 months of classroom training, followed by an apprenticeship at a local repair shop or dealership.
The ultimate achievement in training, for those who want employment in the automotive mechanic industry, is certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This voluntary program is an industry standard. There are eight areas in which a mechanic can be certified, for automobiles and light trucks, when they have passed all areas of testing, they are certified as a master mechanic. These areas include: Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Drive Train and Axles, Suspension and Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, and Engine Performance. To maintain this status, auto mechanics have to retake these tests every five years. You can also consider heavy equipment mechanic jobs and auto sales jobs to find the best career for you.
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