You want to become an autobody technician? Learn more about the requirements for this job, including education, experience, job duties and salaries. This article gives you information about this rewarding career path. Here are some of the basics. First, you will need to have either a high-school diploma or GED. Many vocational schools only require a high school diploma. Others may require SAT or ACT scores. There are even high schools that offer auto body repair programs.
Career outlook
There is a high demand for auto body technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be nearly 16,000 jobs for collision repair technicians in 2029. This is largely due to the aging baby boomers. However, the growth is not driven primarily by new jobs. Certified auto body technicians will have a better job outlook. After graduating, auto body technicians can expect to find excellent jobs with plenty of potential for career advancement.
The auto industry is changing rapidly, so careers in this sector are always evolving. To keep up with changing technologies, technicians must be skilled. The latest cars and repair jobs will be available to students who have completed their training. Students will be exposed to a wide range of exciting and challenging jobs as they progress through their training.
Education is required
An accredited vocational school will usually require a secondary school diploma. To help students excel academically, they might want to join technical clubs. This will allow them to gain a strong customer service background and to pursue a career in engineering. Technical clubs may arrange visits to repair shops or apprenticeships. These experiences can ease your transition to a career as an automotive body technician. You will need strong communication skills and analytical skills, regardless of what area you are interested in.
A college degree is not required to become an autobody technician in most cases. In fact, about 45% of these professionals hold a high school diploma or a GED. However, those with some college education may choose to train as an auto body technician. The training program can take six months to one year depending on the school. However, if you do not have a college degree, you may be able to obtain the training you need to get the job you've always wanted.
Job duties
The job of an autobody technician includes basic car repair skills as well as maintaining and repairing the vehicle. These technicians must follow OSHA and ASE standards and have exceptional manual dexterity. They must also follow the specifications of the manufacturer, which may vary from one vehicle to another. They must pay attention to every detail and be precise in their work. After all, it is the customer's car that they're working on!
An auto body technician does more than just repair work. They also apply fiberglass matting layers on the areas that need it. They also cut openings for customized windows using templates and power shears. They use caulking guns, adhesive brushes, and other metal trimming to secure windows. They use mallets to apply vinyl material to the roof. Finally, they use hand saws to cut and measure the vinyl material for roof.
Salary
Salary for an Auto Body Technician will depend on the level of experience, whereabouts and the skills required. BLS data provides information on the level of compensation for this job based upon complexity, contacts, knowledge and environment. In the United States, the salary for Auto Body Technicians averages $30,000 per annum. It is much higher in New York and California. The following table will show you how to figure the exact salary of this profession.
Auto Body Technicians get different amounts depending on the state they are working in. New York, which pays 12.2% more than average, is the most well-paid state. Depending on the type of work, the location, and experience level of an Auto Body Technician, the salary can range anywhere from $18,500 to $101,000 a year. However, it's important to consider the cost of living in the area where you want to live.
FAQ
Is it hard to be an apprentice mechanic?
It's not easy, but you learn fast, and there are many opportunities for advancement.
You must have patience and perseverance. You must also know how to fix cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
There is a lot of pressure from customers and family members who want you to succeed. But you should never feel pressured into making decisions you aren't comfortable with.
It could be a great job choice if you love fixing cars. It's a job where you can earn a decent salary and build up your business.
However, you might prefer to go down another route. You might consider becoming a technician in this instance.
This requires you to use your technical expertise in support of other workers. You might be able to assist technicians in troubleshooting problems or teach them new techniques.
You can also become a service advisor. Here, you'll provide advice and assistance to customers when they bring their cars to a garage.
The decision you make will depend on what you are looking for. There are plenty of options available, and you can choose which suits you best.
What kind of car mechanic jobs exists?
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
It's where most people start to think about becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. You can either work at a shop owned by someone else or set up your own business.
If you are interested in working at a shop you will need to apply for membership to a union. Once you have been accepted into the Union, you'll be given training by the union.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
Registering with the government is required if you intend to open a garage. After you have registered, you will need to meet certain standards.
After you have registered, you will be issued a license to operate your garage.
You can sell spare parts or do minor repairs with your license. It will not permit you to fix major engine issues.
Apart from selling spare parts, customers will also expect you to provide guidance and advice.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships only employ mechanics who have a specific skill set. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
Some dealers also have general mechanics that can handle all aspects.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships even recruit graduates straight from university. These graduates are familiar with the fundamentals of mechanical engineering so they can easily learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don’t have to be associated with any particular dealer. They are more focused on providing top-quality service.
Independent garages can pay higher wages because they aren't associated with any company. This means that these jobs are usually more lucrative than those at dealerships.
Independent garages don't necessarily make for better work environments. Many business owners prefer to be in control of their businesses than to delegate it to employees.
This could lead to you working long hours with little control over your day.
Also, expect to make lower wages than if your job was at a dealership.
The good news? You can easily switch between different types of jobs. To work at a dealership you will need to contact your employer to see if he is open to the idea of hiring you.
Alternativly, you can apply directly to the garage owner if you are interested in working at an independent garage.
The bad news is that finding a new job isn't always easy. There are many factors that affect how much you make.
This could include the type of vehicle that you are working on and whether or not you charge an additional for labor.
What are the requirements for an automotive technician?
You must have completed high school or GED with good grades in maths and English. Also, you must be able read and write. After passing a written test, you will need to complete a series of practical tests before you are allowed to begin working.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to get a certified mechanic
The mechanic's certifications are designed for people who want to become certified as professional automotive technicians. They provide a comprehensive overview of all areas related to auto repair.
The 12-hour program includes three months of on the job training at a dealership participating. Students must complete at least 60 hours of classroom work per semester. They also need to pass a written test that covers theory and practical questions. Students may take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence's state exam after completing the coursework. For employment as an automotive technician, certification by ASE is necessary.