You have come to the right spot if your goal is to become an automotive body mechanic. You'll find information on Qualifications, Training, Earnings, and Job Outlook. This rewarding job is available to you if you want to know more! Interested? Start your training today. You'll soon be on your way to a rewarding career! What are the Benefits of Being an Automotive Body Technician? Before you start your training, here are some things to consider.
Qualifications
Auto body repair technicians restore vehicles back to pre-accident condition. The work of an automotive body repairer is often considered art. The students are taught the basics of car repair and use modern equipment. They also get to work on real cars. They work on a variety of projects, including custom painting and job estimation. They also prepare for further education in the field. You can find more information below about the qualifications required to be an automotive body technician.
Certain employers require that auto-body technicians possess some kind of industry certification. It is a great idea to get certification. Not only does it show your competence, but it also usually leads to higher wages. Certification is also an option, as many paint and vehicle manufacturer offer product certification programs. Qualifications for automotive body repairer jobs require little or no formal education, but they also provide excellent career prospects. Many shops offer flexible hours in a relaxed environment.
Outlook for the Job
There are many opportunities for car body repairers. There are many jobs in the industry, even though many do not have college degrees. You will need a high school diploma and some training to get started. However, if you are looking to become a supervisor, industry certifications such the ASE/IICACR will be required. Regardless of your training, manual dexterity and the ability to calculate repair costs are important. As automobiles get more sophisticated, there are more opportunities for those with good manual dexterity. You will need to have excellent customer service skills and good manual dexterity. The automotive glass and windshield industries are another option for car body repair. These are separate businesses that can grow.
Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics has not listed specific jobs for automotive body technicians, it projects a slight rise in employment for this job through 2029. This is a slower growth rate than for other occupations, but many of these jobs are being created through retirements or transfers. You will have a greater chance of finding work if you are certified as an autobody technician. A certificate can bring many benefits.
Training
There are many benefits to becoming a collision repair technician. Training for an auto body repairer is thorough, and the curriculum covers the basics of auto body repair. Students will learn basic collision repair terminology and methods, metalwork, paint mixing, and color matching, as well as cost estimation and industry safety protocols. Additionally, this program covers computer diagnostic systems and resume-building workshops. These programs can prepare students for a wide variety of careers.
Auto body specialists specialize in restoring the frames and bodies of vehicles. They inspect car frames to assess the repairability of damaged parts and determine whether structural damage can still be repaired. They work mostly indoors. An automotive body repairer usually requires a high school diploma, as well as formal training in collision repair. These programs are typically offered by a trade school. They usually last from six months up to a year. After you complete your training, you are eligible to apply for employment as an automobile body repairer.
Earnings
An automotive body repairer's job duties include refinishing car and truck bodies and straightening their frames. They may also work in automotive glass installation and car dealerships. In May 2016, the median annual wage for automotive body repairers and related workers was $41,540, while the lowest 10% earned less than $24,880. The top 10 percent made more than $51,540. Below are details about the earnings of automotive body repairers according to state.
In the U.S., New York is the second-highest-paying state, with drivers in both suburban and urban areas. The high number of accidents means a high demand for auto body technicians. It can be difficult to drive in Hawaii, especially if you are driving uphill or at high altitudes. As such, drivers in this state must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to repair car and truck collisions. This challenging work environment is a great place for auto body technicians to make a decent living.
FAQ
How long is an apprenticeship for an automotive mechanic?
It takes approximately three years to complete an automotive mechanic apprenticeship. It includes two years of school and two years as an apprentice. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. During this time, you'll also learn how to use tools safely and efficiently. After the completion of the first year, you will spend another year on the job training. Here you'll gain valuable experience in different trades. These years will offer you the opportunity to attend formal classes.
The final year of the program is spent gaining qualifications and becoming certified in the field. These include NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), that are given after passing specific industry exams. Additionally, HNCs are Higher National Certificates that cover general subjects such management, customer service, and business administration. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
What jobs are available for car mechanics?
Three main areas of employment are available for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is the place most people begin to consider becoming mechanics. It's also the easiest way you can get started. Either you can work in a shop that is owned by another person or start your own business.
You will need to join a union if you want to work in a shop. Once you have been accepted into the Union, you'll be given training by the union.
After completing the training, you'll be ready to start work.
Registering with the government is required if you intend to open a garage. 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 allows for minor repairs and spare parts sales. It won't permit you to fix serious engine problems.
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. For example, they might only deal with brakes or only replace tires.
However, some dealerships also hire general mechanics who can handle all aspects of car repairs.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. This allows employers to pick the right candidates for their jobs.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer service.
Independent garages can pay higher wages because they aren't associated with any company. These jobs generally pay better than those at dealerships.
But this doesn't mean that independent garages are necessarily better places to work. Many business owners prefer to manage their own businesses rather than delegating responsibility to others.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
Also, expect to make lower wages than if your job was at a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. Ask your employer if you would like to work as a mechanic at a dealership.
You could also apply directly to an owner of a garage if that's what you want.
The bad news is that finding a new job isn't always easy. You can earn more depending on many other factors.
It could be the type and cost of labor you use to repair your vehicle.
What qualifications do you need to be a mechanic?
To become a mechanic, you'll need to pass a series of exams. These exams include:
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A test of general knowledge
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Practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests are designed for you to understand the basic concepts and principles of mechanics before your start as a technician.
Once you pass these tests you can become a mechanic. However, you'll still need to complete an apprenticeship. This will include training in the trade.
To be able to repair vehicles, you'll need classes or workshops. Experienced mechanics will also be required.
If you want to be a successful mechanic, it will take concentration and attention to detail. You will need to pay careful attention to every aspect when repairing vehicles.
To become a successful mechanic you'll need patience. If you don’t enjoy following instructions, this might not be the right career path.
But if you love cars and enjoy fixing them, you could be very happy in this line of work.
Are you a mechanic or a technician? Can I do part-time studies?
It is not essential, but it is helpful. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who have completed a complete degree. It shows that you've put the effort in and have done everything possible to succeed.
You can still study while working, however. Some universities allow students the flexibility to finish coursework during summer vacations and resume their studies later in year. Other universities permit students to take classes part-time during the school year.
What are the requirements of an automotive technician?
You must have high school, or GED, and be able to read and write well in English and math. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. After passing a written test, you will need to complete a series of practical tests before you are allowed to begin working.
Is it difficult to find a job as a mechanic in the automotive industry?
It can be done. Many garages post their vacancies online. Many people apply simply because they think it might make them feel good. Applying for several positions and seeing if they accept student applications is a good way to get your foot into the door. Alternatively, you could ask friends and family if they know anyone who works in the industry. You might be able to refer 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)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
External Links
How To
How to Become an Auto Technician
A technician who works on vehicles is an automotive technician. He/she works at automotive shops, garages or service centers. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. An automotive technician must be capable of diagnosing problems and making repairs safely, accurately and efficiently.
If you want to be an automotive technician, you need an associate degree from vocational school. After completing this program, he/she will need to pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence's (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands to American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Two sections make up the ASE certification examination. One section tests knowledge of mechanical components, while the other section tests skills in practical areas. You will need to attend an authorized testing site in order to pass the test. These testing sites can be found online and through your local dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass an examination in order to be licensed as an automotive technician. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them study on their own. Some states allow technicians to become licensed right away after receiving their license. While others wait until they have had at least six years of experience as an automotive technician.
An applicant should apply to a local auto shop in order to start their career as an automotive technician. New employees are usually apprentices when they first get hired. Apprenticeship programs usually 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. Most schools offer classes during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master journeyman. Journeymen generally spend four- to five decades learning how to fix major systems like transmissions. They learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Employers prefer to hire journeymen as they are familiar with the job and can anticipate customer needs.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 1.7 million available jobs in the automotive mechanic field in 2010. That number was expected to grow by 18 percent from 2009 to 2020. A candidate who plans to open a shop should expect to spend many thousands of dollars on equipment and supplies.
Many factors affect the automotive technician's salary, including location, education, experience, and employer type. A jobless person could make an average of $20,000 annually. Someone with only a high school diploma could earn around $21,000 per year. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. Technicians with a bachelor’s degree made about $27,000 annually. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.