Auto Mechanic Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of An auto mechanic. Feel free to use our auto mechanic job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as An auto mechanic.
Who is an Auto Mechanic?
An auto mechanic (automotive technician in much of North America, light vehicle technician in British English, and motor mechanic in Australian English) is a mechanic who works on a variety of vehicles or specializes in a particular area or make of vehicle. Their primary responsibility when repairing automobiles is to precisely and swiftly diagnose the problem. They are frequently required to provide price quotes to their customers prior to starting work or after partial disassembly for inspection. Their duties could include repairing a single part or replacing one or more pieces as assemblies. A mechanic who repairs and maintains autos is known as an auto mechanic.
An auto mechanic works on small vehicles and cars, performing maintenance, diagnostic testing, repairs, and inspections. Engines, drive belts, transmissions, and electrical systems like steering, brakes, and accident-avoidance systems are among the things they work on. Some technicians are starting to work on automobiles that use alternative fuels like electricity or ethanol as a result of a growing trend and popularity of alternative energy. auto mechanics, automobile mechanics, and automotive service technicians are all terms for specialists trained to check, maintain, and fix many sorts of cars. Learn more about the work that these mechanics do and how to get into the profession. Their responsibilities may include a full spectrum of repair and maintenance services in smaller organizations. They may specialize in certain areas, such as brakes, air conditioning systems, or transmissions, in larger companies.
An auto mechanic, also known as a car mechanic, automotive technician, or service technician, is primarily responsible for assessing, repairing, and maintaining automobiles and trucks. Some mechanics, such as brake technicians, gearbox rebuilders, and automotive air-conditioning technicians, specialize in a specific area or system of the car. These technicians are typically trained to use a variety of tools on a variety of vehicle models.
auto mechanics keep vehicles roadworthy and help customers avoid costly repairs down the road. In 2019, they held roughly 756,600 positions, also known as service technicians. Auto dealerships employed around a third of these individuals.
auto mechanics are in high demand. Choosing a vocation as a mechanic ensures a solid income in the future. Consumers may be influenced by economic downturns when purchasing new vehicles, but vehicles will always require maintenance and repair. Changes in other industries have little impact on the automobile repair industry, thus there is no such thing as a quiet season for auto technicians. In Canada, the industry has been constantly growing, which means there is a demand for auto technicians now and in the future.
auto mechanics have a vast array of tools at their disposal. In most garages, mechanics are required to use their own set of tools. Many people begin amassing their tool collection while still in mechanic school.
Specialized auto repair technicians include the following:
- Automotive Air-Conditioning Repairers: Install and service air conditioners and parts such as compressors, condensers, and controls. Any government regulations that are relevant to their profession are taught to them.
- Brake mechanics: Brake mechanics adjust brakes, replace brake linings and pads, and perform other brake system repairs. Some mechanics are experts in both brake and front-end repair.
- Front-End Mechanics: Front-End Mechanics are responsible for aligning and balancing wheels, as well as repairing steering and suspension systems. They frequently use wheel-balancing machines and special alignment equipment.
- Transmission Rebuilders and Technicians: Work on transmission gear trains, couplings, hydraulic pumps, and other components. Working on these complicated components necessitates a thorough understanding of computer controls, the ability to detect electrical and hydraulic faults, and other specific abilities.
- Tune-Up Technicians: To guarantee optimal engine performance, correct ignition timing, and valves, as well as tune or replace spark plugs and other parts. To isolate and adjust problems in fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems, they frequently use electronic testing equipment.
auto mechanic Job Description
Below are the auto mechanic job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write An auto mechanic job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
- Examines the general state of gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles to evaluate the vehicle’s overall condition, the reason for any malfunctions, and the need for repairs.
- Uses visual or auditory inspection methods to diagnose faults.
- Uses specialized test equipment such as engine analyzers, compression testers, voltmeters, ohmmeters, and pressure gauges to identify the exact kind or extent of repairs or modifications required.
- Performs required repairs on gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, using independent judgment and initiative as assigned.
- Completes time Compliance Technical Orders (TCTOs), including routine and special inspections.
- Determines when and how main components should be pulled down; what parts and mechanisms can be changed, refitted, or replaced with new parts; and the type, extent, and alignment required using technical orders, commercial manuals, or local knowledge.
- Performs bodywork and corrosion control, as well as repainting and refinishing surfaces as needed.
- Repairs and replaces body parts, locks, glass, and other items as needed, and decides whether more repairs are necessary.
- Welds, power tools, hand tools, and other specialist equipment are used.
- Cleans, tests, and repairs radiators/oil coolers and associated parts.
- Assists with the examination and upkeep of technical orders, operating instructions, commercial publications, Major Command (MAJCOM) and local publications, as well as other relevant directives.
- Assists in the establishment and maintenance of proper bench and special stock support levels, as well as the necessary tools and equipment.
- Maintains and uses shop equipment.
- Performs research or assists in the requisitioning of materials, components, and equipment for the vehicle maintenance/management mission.
- Participates as an On-the-Job Training (OJT) instructor in the vehicle maintenance department.
- Conducts instructional classes on all elements of vehicles and assigned shop maintenance support equipment, including methods and procedures for operation and maintenance.
- Operates general and special purpose vehicles, as well as base maintenance and materials handling equipment as needed to support the unit’s mission.
- Plans and schedules drill status guard personnel’ tasks and training activities.
- Maintains, repairs, and modifies various sorts of motor vehicles, both gasoline and diesel-powered, for assigned drill status guardsmen.
- Interacts with customers to learn more about the issues they’re having with their vehicles.
- Examines numerous systems of automobiles to identify faults and to help detect components that may be failing, service technicians
- Use computerized diagnostic testing.
- Removes worn or malfunctioning parts and replaces them with new ones.
- Performs routine maintenance such as oil, filter, and belt changes according to manufacturer’s specifications.
- Keeps meticulous records of all jobs done.
Qualifications
Although not all of them are required, auto technicians have a number of learning and training possibilities. Although mechanics are not required to have a tertiary education, many complete non-degree training programs at a technical school.
An associate’s degree in automotive technology or a similar discipline, on the other hand, is one of the education possibilities for mechanics. They should ideally have a high school diploma or a certificate from a vocational training program. In most cases, a college diploma is not required.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is the industry standard for automotive service technicians. Employers may demand that their service technicians obtain certification.
Apprenticeships: Either an apprenticeship or on-the-job training under the supervision of an experienced mechanic can be beneficial.
Continuing Education: As new types of cars are launched with ever-evolving features, mechanics must be willing to engage in continual learning to keep up with changing technology.
Essential Skills
Workers in the automotive business require a variety of abilities to maintain and repair automobiles, trucks, and other vehicles, as well as to interact with customers, managers, employees, and team members. Employers look for these qualities in candidates for automotive careers:
- Interpersonal skills: These can aid in the conduct of tests and inspections, as well as the diagnosis of elusive automotive problems. Client service and customer relations will be a part of your responsibilities.
- Mechanical skills: An understanding of engine components and systems, as well as how they interact, is essential. Technicians must be able to disassemble main components for repairs and reassemble them correctly.
- Ability to pay attention to details: Not only will this aid with hands-on labor, but it will also help with other elements of the job, such as recordkeeping and inventory management. Professionals who develop a high attention to detail improve their auto mechanic knowledge and skills. Small modifications in car maintenance can have a big impact on the vehicle’s safety and performance. Attention to detail aids mechanics in thoroughly repairing detected issues and discovering issues that the client may be unaware of. auto mechanics who don’t pay attention to detail may send customers back out on the road with a vehicle that isn’t entirely repaired, putting the customer’s life in danger. Customers enjoy mechanics that pay additional care to their vehicles, as it establishes a bond of confidence between them and the mechanic.
- Coordination: Some jobs necessitate a high level of dexterity and fine motor abilities. Other jobs necessitate agility and strength.
- Skills in leadership: You may be asked to manage or instruct others.
- Problem-Solving Skills: auto mechanics can use problem-solving skills to determine which parts need to be repaired, which parts need to be replaced, and which parts can be left alone. auto mechanics with strong problem-solving skills can also perform preventative maintenance.
- Skills in time management: Mechanics frequently deal with multiple customers in a single day and must also account for lengthy repairs that may take several days. Auto technicians can use time management to manage and meet several deadlines. Mechanics can arrange incoming appointments, account for prospective car component delivery, and ensure that clients receive their vehicles on time by having great time management abilities. Time management also aids mechanics in estimating the length of each repair. Customers expect a precise idea of when their vehicle will be returned. auto mechanics must master the art of determining how quickly they can do repairs.
- Dexterity: Another aspect of auto mechanic abilities is dexterity, or the ability to accomplish physical activities with grace and precision, particularly when using your hands. Many precise modifications to mechanical parts within a car are required by auto mechanics. If you make too many — or too few — adjustments, you risk damaging the car or worsening the problem. Mechanics frequently operate in cramped areas, such as beneath a car. These specialists may not have much room for movement even when working on a vehicle that has been elevated with a jack or ramp. auto mechanics must work in cramped quarters to accomplish repairs, which may include removing and/or installing parts.
How to Become an auto mechanic
Students who want to work as automotive mechanics should pursue some post-secondary education, as well as on-the-job training and industry certification. We go over each of these procedures in further depth here.
Postsecondary Program:
auto mechanic colleges, as well as online auto mechanic classes and online auto body repair training programs, are offered around the country. auto mechanics typically need at least a certificate or diploma in automobile service technology, although associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs are also common in the sector. Students may be able to pick from programs in specialized disciplines, such as diesel technology or high-performance technology, at the associate’s level. Bachelor’s degree programs are also more specialized, allowing students to pursue degrees in fields such as automotive administration or automotive engineering technology. The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) is the most common associate’s degree, while the Bachelor of Science (BS) is the most common bachelor’s degree. Coursework for these degree programs may include topics in:
- Electronics
- Engine diagnosis
- Brake systems
- Engine performance
- Suspension
- Training
Most mechanics will not require much on-the-job training to master the procedures of their particular workplace after completing a postsecondary education degree in automobile service technology. Some firms, on the other hand, may recruit mechanics without post-secondary education, and this person may be forced to receive additional training. This training is usually done under the supervision of an experienced mechanic or technician.
Certification for Professionals:
To demonstrate competency, most service professionals must earn certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Engine repair, brakes, and heating and air conditioning are just a few of the specialist areas where ASE certification is available. Passing a test and having at least two years of work experience is normally required for certification. Additional certifications, such as the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) certification to handle refrigerant, may be required based on a technician’s specific profession.
Where to Work as an auto mechanic
auto mechanics work in a number of locations in the automobile industry, including car dealerships, tire stores, oil change shops, petrol stations, and full-service repair shops. Some mechanics run their own business and take on management responsibilities such as pricing fixing, promotion, training, and employee supervision. Mechanics employed by government agencies and car dealerships. The majority of vehicle repair professionals work for private companies full-time, and some are self-employed. The majority of their time is spent in well-lit, well-ventilated repair shops.
The majority of workers in this area are employed by vehicle dealerships and service shops, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. These can range in size from major mechanic shops or dealerships in cities to small, one- or two-mechanic repair shops in small communities. Automotive service professionals and mechanics may work at petrol stations or at establishments that sell auto parts, accessories, and tires.
auto mechanic Salary Scale
A mechanic in Nigeria earns roughly 122,000 NGN per month on average. Salaries range from 60,800 NGN to 188,000 NGN (lowest to highest) (highest).
This is the monthly average pay, which includes housing, transportation, and other benefits. Salary for mechanics varies greatly depending on experience, skills, gender, and region. In Nigeria, mechanic salaries range from 60,800 NGN per month (lowest salary) to 188,000 NGN per month (highest compensation) (maximum salary). The median monthly income for Mechanic(s) is 122,000 NGN, which means that half of those employed as Mechanic(s) make less than 122,000 NGN, and the other half earn more than 122,000 NGN.
Two values are closely related to the median: the 25th and 75th percentiles. According to the wage distribution map, 25% of Mechanics make less than 82,000 NGN, while 75% earn more than 82,000 NGN. 75 percent of Mechanic(s) make less than 155,000 NGN, whereas 25% earn more than 155,000 NGN, according to the graphic.
In 2020, the median salary for auto mechanics in the United States was $44,050. That year, the top 25 percent earned $58,330, while the bottom 25 percent earned $32,570. District of Columbia ($64,640), California ($54,540), Washington ($52,530), Alaska ($52,490), and Hawaii ($51,920) are the states and jurisdictions that pay the highest average wage to auto mechanics.