Auto Mechanic: Job Description, Automotive Repair Degree & Career Outlook

The automotive technology continues to become more and more sophisticated. And this advancement in technology creates a growing demand for formally trained auto mechanics. Today's automotive vehicles use a variety of hi-tech computer systems and electronic equipment which are continuously becoming more complex. Therefore, if you have a strong passion for specializing in the repair and maintenance of a wide range of vehicles, you can always consider becoming an auto mechanic or an automotive technician. Read on to know about the job description of these specially trained mechanics, their educational qualification and training, salary and the career prospects that this rewarding career brings you.

 

Job Description
The main job duty of an auto mechanic is the maintenance of a variety of automobiles. In today's automobile industry, the job of these mechanics has become more challenging. This is due to the shift which is fast taking place from the purely mechanical aspects to technological aspects of automobiles. Mechanics are specially trained by technical schools to understand how different components an automobile function together. Apart from vehicle or car maintenance, these professionals are also responsible for doing preventive maintenance. This means that the mechanics need to identify worn out components in a vehicle and replace those components prior to the occurrence of an expensive damage.

 

At the first the repair service estimator or the vehicle owner reports a typical problem to the mechanics or technicians. Then the auto mechanic performs a diagnostic test to locate the problem or the malfunctioning component in an automobile. They will be responsible for performing a check of all the major components and identify the actual cause of the problem. A test drive may also be taken by mechanics to find the faulty areas or components. Once the diagnostic procedure has been finished and the faulty components in the automobile have been identified, the auto mechanic will try to figure out whether a repair will solve the problem or the faulty part needs a complete replacement.

 

During a routine check up or a tune up, the auto repair mechanic will lubricate the engine and the other essential components of the system. Usually, automotive technicians carry a checklist so that they can perform a complete check on all the essential automobile components. Using a checklist, the mechanist checks essential parts of the vehicle including the fuel system, hoses, plugs, belts etc.

 

To perform their repair and maintenance work, auto mechanics are trained in the use of a variety of tools and equipment. They use tools like lathes, grinding machines, welding machines, flame cutting equipment etc. Today, mechanics also have proficiency in the use of computerized systems to detect errors in a variety of vehicles. Automobiles use different types of fuels including gasoline, electricity and alternative fuel. Auto repairing mechanics are specially trained to perform diagnostic tests for all these vehicle types.

 

Educational Qualification & Training
Considering the sophistication in the technological aspect of automotive repair and maintenance, candidates need to be formally trained to become an auto mechanic. There are some mechanics who kick-start their career by working with experienced automotive technicians. To make the most of your careers in the automobile industry, you need to complete training programs in automotive repair, offered by several vocational schools, technical schools and community colleges. Community colleges training courses may take around 2 years for completion. Seeing the short availability of good qualified mechanics many large employers also offer apprenticeship programs to train entry level workers in this trade.

 

Certification
It is also important to note that a majority of employers need a minimum number of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications to employ candidates for mechanics positions. Therefore, it is recommended that you select and enroll into degree programs whose coursework is specially developed to prepare candidates for ASE certification. The certificate is awarded by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence.

 

Career Outlook
The field of automotive repair offers good job prospects for auto mechanics. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment growth rate for mechanics jobs is expected to be faster than the average of other occupations. The US BLS predicts an employment growth rate of 14% between the years 2006 and 2016.

 

Annual Salary
Salaries of auto mechanics will vary according to the work location, nature and size of the employer and skill sets and working experience they carry. These professionals earn an annual salary varying between $28,912 and $38,352. Those who carry extensive experience and special skills can annually earn $43,690 or more.