An auto mechanic fixes damaged vehicles. This is done in a process called panel beating. It is a term that is commonly used in Commonwealth countries. A typical day in the life of an auto body mechanic involves the repair of dents and dings in vehicle bodies. They are paid the same as panel beaters in terms of their duties and pay. The most important difference between panel beaters or auto body mechanics and each other is their education.
Job description
This job description will detail some of the responsibilities associated with this position. This occupation requires extensive manual dexterity and proven experience. It requires excellent manual dexterity, weekend work ability, and exceptional physical health. To attract the best candidates, it is essential to tailor the job description and the hiring process for the job. The job description is the first point of contact for potential employees.
A mechanic who works on auto bodies is responsible for repairing vehicles and also assessing any damage. They assess the extent of damage and make repairs according to the estimate. These technicians also replace or repair defective auto parts, test vehicle functionality, and install new systems and features. An auto mechanic may also be able to paint a vehicle. This technician may use welding equipment to replace or repair parts. If a vehicle requires extensive repairs, they may even perform fiberglass body repair work.
Duties
An auto body mechanic is responsible for maintaining and repairing vehicles. They maintain safety and work with customers. In addition, these mechanics perform a wide variety of other duties, such as restoring a vehicle to its original condition and installing and replacing exterior parts. These mechanics use Windows based computers and software for measuring both the upper and bottom of the body. They may also be subject to noise, vibration and dust, as well as fumes.
An auto body mechanic's primary job is to fix vehicles' exteriors rather than their interior technological components. While the majority of this career focuses on cars, light trucks, there are some positions that require technicians to work on larger vehicles such as buses and semi-trucks. Auto body technicians have many duties, but the majority perform minor collision repair and structural repairs. They must also maintain all the necessary tools and equipment for their work.
Salary
An auto body mechanic's salary will vary depending on their experience and where they live. An entry-level technician may make around $40,000 annually, while more experienced mechanics might earn up to $100,000 each year. This information can vary from one state or another, so be sure that you verify the details for your state. BLS.com provides salary information for mechanics in the auto industry. You can read on to learn more about what you could expect in terms of pay.
New York City, which is home to many accidents in automobiles every day, is the second-most expensive state. The city is home to many auto body technicians. Hawaii is considered the most expensive state but it is known for its breathtaking scenery and beautiful tropical climate. This environment can make driving difficult, especially when you are traveling uphill. While the salaries of auto mechanics vary from one state to the other, they are indicative of the job prospects for the next ten years.
Education is necessary
While a diploma from an accredited technical school is highly desirable, it is not necessary for auto body mechanics. Typically, it takes six months to one year to complete an automotive body repair training course. To learn more about becoming an autobody mechanic, you can contact your local repair shop or visit nearby schools. An automotive repair diploma is also highly desirable as it will demonstrate to potential employers that your knowledge and skills are necessary for the job. In addition, certifications are increasingly important to demonstrate competence and typically lead to higher pay.
The education required to become an auto body technician will vary depending on which degree program you choose. An auto body technician will need to know the basics of metal finishing, frame alignment and panel replacement. Unibody technologies, shop management, and estimating are some of the skills you'll learn. This program prepares you to be independent in a body shop.
FAQ
What length of an automotive course is it?
A course in automotive lasts three years.
The first year focuses on theory and learning about cars. The second year is dedicated to practical training, where you will learn how to fix cars, drive them, and do other jobs around the car. You will spend the final year working in a local garage to gain real-world experience.
How do I fix my car for a hobby?
It's a great hobby to take on if you are passionate about cars. You could repair them yourself, buy parts for them and sell them. Or just have fun with them. It's a fun hobby that you can do if it interests you.
However, it's not easy to turn this into a full-time career. It requires hard work and dedication. It will also require a large amount of investment.
You may not be able to have an emotional connection with cars unless there is a valid reason.
What qualifications do you need to be a truck-mechanic?
Although you don’t have formal qualifications, you have extensive experience with engines and trucks. Your experience is valuable because it allows you to diagnose problems quickly, efficiently and effectively.
You also have an excellent knowledge of diesel technology which will help you to understand what parts are needed to repair our vehicles.
What should I know about car mechanics
Auto mechanics don't require any knowledge. The only thing you need is the ability to fix them. It's why many people begin to fix things by fitting brake pads or changing tires.
You'll need the ability to read and understand diagrams and to follow simple rules of good practise. It is also important to know how to determine if parts are damaged or need to be replaced.
It is important to remember that proper training and guidance are essential for anyone who attempts to repair vehicles. This is especially true if your job involves expensive parts like transmissions or engines.
Even though you don't need to be an expert on cars, it is important to understand the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and physical physics. This includes understanding the mechanics of how engines and brakes work.
It's also worth noting that you'll need to be prepared to deal with all sorts of situations. You might be required to work on a vehicle that was involved in an accident. You will also need to be able to deal with accidents and breakdowns.
You must also be willing to learn quickly. Not only will you need to be capable of diagnosing problems, but you also need to be able perform simple maintenance tasks like tightening nuts.
What kind of car mechanic jobs exists?
For car mechanics, there are three main areas for employment:
-
Automotive repair shops
-
Dealerships
-
Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people consider becoming a mechanic. It's the easiest way for most people to get started. Either work for someone else's shop or you can start your own.
If you are interested in working at a shop you will need to apply for membership to a union. After you are accepted to the union, you will receive training from it.
Once you complete the training, it's time to get started.
Register with the government if you want to open your garage. Once you have registered, certain standards will be enforced.
When you've registered, you'll be given a license to operate your garage.
Your license will allow you to sell spare parts and do minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
You will be expected to sell spare parts and also offer guidance and advice 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.
Some dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
These positions often require applicants to undergo specific training before being allowed to work. This allows employers to select the most qualified candidates for their roles.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates already have a basic understanding of mechanical engineering, so they are able to learn all about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages do not belong to any dealership. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer service.
Independent garages are not associated with any companies so they can afford higher wages. As a result, these jobs are generally better paid than those at dealerships.
However, independent garages may not be better places to work. Many business owners prefer to be in control of their businesses than to delegate it to employees.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. 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.
It's not always easy to find a job. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
Consider, for example, what type of vehicle you are repairing and whether additional labor charges will apply.
What are the requirements of an automotive technician?
You must have completed high school or GED with good grades in maths and English. You also need to be able to read and write well. After passing a written test, you will need to complete a series of practical tests before you are allowed to begin working.
Statistics
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to become an automotive technician
An automotive technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and repair. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she helps customers fix their cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, lawn mowers, snowmobiles, tractors, trailers, farm equipment, planes, helicopters, jet skis, watercraft, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, golf carts, etc. An automotive technician must have the ability to quickly diagnose and fix problems.
A person who wants to work as an automotive technician should first obtain an associate degree from a vocational school. After completing this program the student must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exam (ASE). ASE stands as American Society of Mechanical Engineers. There are two sections to the ASE certification test. The first section tests the ability to use mechanical knowledge. The second section tests the ability to apply practical skills. To take the test, you must visit one of the approved testing locations. You can find these locations online or through your local automobile dealer.
After passing the exam, a candidate must take a state exam before being licensed as an automobile technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require that applicants attend a training class, while others allow them freedom to study at their own pace. Some states permit technicians to work immediately after they are granted their license. Others require them to wait at least six consecutive months before they can be licensed.
An applicant should apply to a local auto shop in order to start their career as an automotive technician. Once hired, most new employees start out working as apprentices. Apprenticeship programs last about three years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes when needed.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen typically spend four to five years learning how to install major systems, such as transmissions, differentials, steering gear, suspensions, and drive shafts. They are also taught how to troubleshoot electrical components and remanufacture engines. Many employers prefer hiring journeymen because they know the job well and understand what the customer expects.
Once a candidate passes the required exams and is granted a license, they might consider opening their own shop. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2010, nearly 1.7 Million automotive mechanic jobs were available. This number was expected increase 18% between 2009 - 2020. When a candidate plans to open his/her own shop he/she should be ready to invest thousands of dollars in equipment.
Automotive technicians' salaries depend on many factors such as the employer, whereabouts, education level and experience. A jobless person could make an average of $20,000 annually. Someone who has only a highschool diploma could earn around 21,000 dollars per year. Associate's degrees earn approximately $24,000 per annum. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. The average annual salary for those with master's degrees was $32,000. Salary increases can be common. A professional who earns less that $30,000 today could reasonably expect a $40,000 increase in the next few decades.