Job description
Automotive service technicians perform basic maintenance services on vehicles. Their work consists of checking fluid levels, rotating tyres, changing oil and providing tune-ups. They also repair or replace worn out parts, like brake pads and wheel bearings, while a key part of their job is to explain to clients about the problems associated with the vehicle.
Duties
- Perform routine maintenance work for automobiles to ensure functionality and longevity
- Inspect engine and mechanical elements to correctly diagnose a car’s problems
- Determine if the vehicle’s computer and electronic systems are working properly
- Follow a checklist to make sure everything has been checked
- Utilise on-board or plug-in diagnostics to locate issues and come up with solutions
- Test, disassemble and reassemble parts
- Access testing equipment to make certain that parts are working sufficiently
- Give customers an estimate of the work that needs to be done, in addition to pricing
- Explain in layman’s terms about what is wrong with the vehicle
- Observe the behaviour of the vehicle by sight and smell
- Submit orders for specific parts that the shop does not have and ones that serve as remedies
- Use a wide range of tools, equipment and hazardous solvents
- Contact the manufacturer for some issues that require additional assistance
- Schedule future maintenance sessions and extend advice for best vehicle usage
Skills and qualities
Job outlook
Projected growth
6%
New jobs
45.9k
Automation risk
59%
Career progression
With experience, you can take on various management functions, such as supervising employees, training new hires or monitoring inventory. There isn’t much room for advancement, although you will likely enjoy higher compensation, greater perks and better benefits as you progress in your career.
Some automotive service technicians, meanwhile, choose to start their own businesses.
Working conditions
Average hours
40h/ week
Typical schedule
Full Time
Overtime occasionally
Automotive service technicians work in a wide array of car service settings, including gas stations, full-service repair shops and car dealers.
While it can be difficult to walk off the job in the middle of a repair, most mechanics maintain a 40-hour weekly schedule. It should be noted that overtime is possible during busy periods, and working evenings and weekends is common.
Salary
Bottom 10%
$23k
Median
$41k
Top 10%
$67k
Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.
Qualifications and training
Education level
Vocational
Automotive service technology programme
Study time
6 months
To become an automotive service technician, you will generally need to complete an automotive service technology programme, which typically takes six months to a year to complete.
Alternatively, you could complete an associate’s degree, which many automobile manufacturers and dealers will sponsor.
In any event, you will still need to attend continuing education courses throughout your career due to constantly evolving technological advancements.
Last Updated: Thursday, January 12, 2023
