In your day to day work as a mechanic, you'll use a wide variety of tools. These tools include tools used by other mechanics as well as diagnostic equipment like computers. The right tools are essential to be able to work efficiently and confidently. Find out how to become an automobile mechanic. ASE certification is an industry standard. The following article provides an overview of the job duties and requirements. This article will help determine if this career path is right.
ASE certification represents the industry standard
Although not all auto shops require technicians to be certified in the field, most will. Earning your ASE certification can give you credibility and a competitive edge if it is something you desire to do in this field. This certification will not only give you an edge over other applicants but will also make you more attractive to employers. This certification will make you stand out from mechanics without it.
Job duties
The duties of an automotive mechanic are very similar to that of other types. Auto mechanics perform repairs and maintenance of automobiles. They also use specialized technologies that determine the extent of repairs required. The repair and maintenance of many automotive systems is typically the responsibility of auto mechanics. This includes brakes, exhaust systems, as well as electrical suspensions. They are also responsible for diagnosing and determining the best action for the vehicle. While an auto mechanic does not usually need a college degree, he or she must have a working knowledge of how vehicles operate.
Salary
Although the average annual salary for certified mechanics is approximately $40,000, it's possible to make a much higher salary. In fact, the top 10% of auto mechanics made more than $71,940 a year. Although six-figure salaries are not common for certified mechanics, they only apply to large car dealerships. The pay scale of mechanics varies depending on where they are located, how much experience they have, and what education they have. The highest salaries in the U.S. are earned by mechanics from Alaska and Fairbanks, who earn $59,000 annually, respectively. California, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Mississippi are home to an average annual salary around $38,600.
Requirements
There are many ways to become an automotive mechanic. Many post-secondary institutions offer certificate programs that take one year to complete. A two-year program is available if you're interested in becoming certified as a mechanic. You can take ASE tests during your apprenticeship if desired to become a licensed auto mechanic. In either case, you will need a certain amount of practical experience to be eligible to sit for the test.
Training programs
There are many courses available to auto mechanics. Most training programs include classroom sessions as well as hands-on repair training. The Automotive Service Excellence Body of Knowledge (ASE) can offer certification to graduates of these programs. ASE certification is a industry-recognized mark of competence. Many employers prefer mechanics with ASE certifications because they are a guarantee that the mechanic has been thoroughly tested and proven to be competent.
FAQ
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
It's where most people start to think about becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You have two options: work in an existing shop or open your own.
You will need to join a union if you want to work in a shop. After being accepted into the union, the union will provide training.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
You will need to register if your garage is going to be open. After you have registered, you will need to meet certain 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.
As well as selling spare parts you will need to offer advice and direction 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 dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
Some positions require that applicants complete training before they can be 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 do not belong to any dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages can pay higher wages because they aren't associated with any company. As a result, these jobs are generally better paid than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages do not necessarily offer better workplaces. Many owners prefer to control their businesses themselves, rather than delegating it to employees.
This could lead to you working long hours with little control over your day.
It is also possible to expect lower wages than you would if working at a dealer.
The good news is that you can easily switch between different kinds of jobs. To work at a dealership you will need to contact your employer to see if he is open to the idea of hiring you.
If you prefer to work in an independent garage, you might consider applying directly to its owner.
Finding a new job is not always easy. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
This could include the type of vehicle that you are working on and whether or not you charge an additional for labor.
Does it really matter what college I choose?
It's not true. There is no difference between colleges in terms of how to get into the automobile industry. However, some schools offer better programs than others so if you're looking for something more specialized, look elsewhere.
Is it difficult to find a job as a mechanic in the automotive industry?
Yes, it can be very easy. Many garages advertise their vacancies online, and many people apply just because they think it might be fun. If you want to get your foot in the door, you should try applying for a few places and see if they accept student applications. Ask your friends and family to recommend anyone in the field. They might be willing to recommend someone.
Statistics
- 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)
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
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How To
How to create a business plan for your car repair shop
Before you start anything, you should have a good grasp of the basics of starting a business. You must first understand what type business you want. You may want to consider getting started in a small town with few competitors. You won't have too much trouble finding another job if things don’t go your way. If you decide to open your own auto repair shop, then you'll probably want to choose a location near a large population base. Customers will be more likely to visit you if they have problems. You can also sell parts at very low prices to them.
You might consider opening a franchise opportunity when you start your own business. A franchise requires less capital investment than traditional businesses. The franchisor will still require you to pay royalty and fees each month. It is important to be cautious when choosing a franchise. Many franchises promise high returns, but do not deliver.
You could start your own auto shop if you have previous retail experience. Many entrepreneurs who have started their own businesses claim it was one of their best decisions. You must still create a business plan before starting. It is important to write down every goal you wish your business to achieve. You might have goals like increasing sales, improving customer services, or lowering costs. You can then look for ways you can achieve these goals once you have them written down.
The next step in your journey to opening an auto repair shop is financing it. Most people borrow money from banks and credit unions to fund their businesses. Collateral is usually required by banks. You must offer collateral. Some people even take out loans against their homes. To qualify for a loan, you'll need to show that you have enough cash flow to repay the loan.
After you have funded your business, you will need to obtain a license. There are several types of licenses that you can obtain depending on what kind of business you want to operate. For instance, auto mechanics will need a state license. Body shops only require a Federal license.
The last thing you'll need to do is to create a marketing strategy. Before you begin advertising, you will need to establish what your company stands out for. What makes you business stand out from other businesses? How can your business improve on the work of others? These questions are important in building a strong brand. This information will allow you to create more effective advertisements.