Entry into the field of automotive mechanics is the most common. Duties of the service mechanic have steadily evolved over the years along with advances in technology. The basic requirements have gone from simple mechanical and engine repairs to working with sophisticated electronic and computerized components. The proverbial ‘backyard mechanic’ who is self-taught is almost a thing of the past, as most employers will only hire the mechanic who has completed a certified vocational training program in the field.
Education:
Some high schools offer the training required to obtain employment as an entry-level technician. The Automotive Youth Education Service (AYES) high school programs are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Students completing these high school programs are ready to enter the field. It is still advisable to go for a vocational or a community college program for additional courses.
Postsecondary education generally provides a more intensive training program, combining classroom instruction with extensive hands on training. Some vocational or trade school programs provide instruction which can be completed in six months to one year. A certificate of completion is awarded, which complies with ASE standards. If automotive mechanic training is completed at a community college, the student generally earns a bachelor’s degree, which is a two-year program including English, Math, and other general subjects, as well as automotive repair.
Employment:
New graduates can expect to enter the field as a trainee technician or technician helper, regardless of the education they are bringing with them into a labor job. Most automotive repair shops and dealerships require a type of internship program. The new technician works under the direct supervision of the more experienced mechanics, starting with routine maintenance tasks and simple repairs. It typically takes anywhere from two to five years to develop the analytical skills necessary to quickly diagnose mechanical problems and undertake more difficult repairs.
Continued education is required as technical advances are made in the industry. Auto manufacturers have training centers and regularly offer instruction on specific changes, such as a new type of fuel injection system or other component repair.
ASE Certification:
Until the 1970’s, the general public had no way to measure the skills level or competence of an individual mechanic. In 1972, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was established as a non-profit organization to provide the consumer with this much-needed information. The ASE provides certification in eight different specialized areas of automotive repair. Receiving certification in all eight categories qualifies the recipient as a master technician.
ASE certification has become an industry standard as many repair shops display the certificates in waiting rooms or reception areas to promote consumer confidence. The mechanic who wants to advance and continue as a valuable member of the automotive repair team will regularly update his training and receive certification in areas of expertise.
Projected Employment Outlook:
According to projections made by the US Department of Labor Statistics, automotive service technician and mechanic employment is expected to increase by 14 percent over the next five years. This is a great increase compared to an overall 10 percent growth expected for employment in general. Openings will be due to the increase in commercial and private vehicles on the road, and from the large number of mechanics expected to reach retirement age.
Candidates with computer and electrical training and those with problem solving skills will have an advantage over other applicants looking for entry-level employment. Those who enter the field are expected to remain employed even during economic downturns. This is one occupation that does not usually suffer from huge employment layoffs or position cuts.
Median hourly wage of an automobile mechanic varies. Usually those employed by the government and automobile dealerships are high paying blue collar jobs, earning more than those working for individual repair shops. The average wage is $15 - $20 per hour, with wages up to $28 per hour at the highest end of the scale.
Many experienced automobile mechanics receive a commission along with their base wage that is directly related to the cost of labor charged to the customer. This commission structure is designed to increase productivity and the amount of work completed in a given week. Some service mechanics belong to one of several labor unions available to the trade. Union workers may enjoy added benefits, regular cost of living increases, and possibly more job security than non-labor mechanics.
Overall, the automobile mechanic is a rewarding blue collar, labor position. The mechanic can look forward to a bright outlook for the future and a comfortable income.
