There are many roles in the automotive industry for automotive technicians.Whether you're repairing commuter cars, servicing commercial diesel trucks or building the next generation race car, the opportunities for technicians are as varied as they can be rewarding.If you are considering a career as an automotive technician, you should start with an education in the field and gain as much experience as you can along the way.
Step 1: Gain hands on experience.
Start by working at home with your own car, or assisting a friend or family member as they work on their car.You may have a knack for certain parts of auto repair or maintenance.It is possible to gain an understanding of the craft by working on cars in an informal manner.If the job is right for you, take this opportunity.
Step 2: You can gauge your interest in certain parts of the work.
Depending on the application, automotive technicians work in a variety of settings.Think about what interests you when you work on your own car or on a friend or family member's car.The best parts of working on cars are the ones you find most interesting.There are certain aspects of the work that you would prefer not to do.
Step 3: Understand the job.
A wide variety of tasks are preformed by automotive technicians.Some technicians work at dealerships while others work in repair facilities that work on every type of vehicle.In depth repairs are performed by automotive technicians.Some technicians work on customer vehicles, while others work only on vehicles owned by the company they work for.
Step 4: Make sure you are able to do it.
Being an automotive technician can be a physically demanding job that can require long hours on your feet and an ability to work in extremely hot or cold environments.You can still be an automotive technician if you can't work in certain environments.You need to keep your hands above your head for a long period of time to work on a lift.If you suffer from a physical disability that prevents you from picking up or carrying tools or parts, it may not be the right career choice.
Step 5: Consider the education requirements.
You need to attend a school that offers automotive repair certifications in order to receive the education required to work as an automotive technician.If you have chosen a school, you can apply for financial aid there.You need to complete the Federal application for financial aid in order to get aid from the government.
Step 6: Think about a specialty.
There are a number of specialized industries for automotive technicians.You can either choose to work on diesel or commercial vehicles.You can enroll in the right programs if you know what field of automotive repair you want to pursue.Diesel and gas engines require different types of training.If you don't know what you want to do, regular auto repair is a good place to start.
Step 7: You can enroll in a certification course.
An accredited education program can offer automotive technician certifications.There are many options for technical schools to choose from, so find one that is close by, offers the certification you need, and may offer financial aid to offset the cost of the program.Before the deadline for courses, make sure to submit an application for acceptance to some programs.Look for schools that are accredited by the National Institute for automotive service excellence.The chance to work as a technician is available in some programs that are as short as fifteen months.
Step 8: You can choose a career field.
You should begin to think about what kind of place you would like to work in as you complete your training.If you're studying diesel repair, you might want to work on a company's fleet.You might want to work in a shop that repairs cars for customers or in the racing industry.There are benefits to working in each of the different career fields within the automotive industry, but you need to choose one that interests you.The fields are easier to get into.The racing industry is very competitive and there are very few openings.
Step 9: Consider working in an internship.
Many schools offer internship programs to allow you to go and work as a tech to gain experience in the field, but you don't have to only pursue internships through the school.Businesses often hire interns for paid positions.Ask the school administration if they can help you get into an internship.You can apply for internships in the newspaper or on the job board.If you want to be a better candidate to hire when you complete your certification, internships are a great way to gain important experience.
Step 10: You need to complete an automotive technician certification.
If you want to become an automotive technician, you need to earn passing grades and complete your certification.You will need to take a test from the National Institute for automotive service excellence in order to get certifications.You can apply for jobs as a certified tech with these certifications.If you've been an intern at a company, you may want to ask if they're willing to bring you on full time once you finish school.You can apply for jobs on the job boards.The cost of testing with the National Institute for automotive Service excellence is covered by some schools.
Step 11: You can create a resume.
Before applying for a new job as an automotive technician, you need to write a professional resume.If you have any previous professional experience, as well as your education and internship, please include it.A friend can help you look over your resume for errors.If you include your name and contact information on the resume, hiring managers will be able to contact you.
Step 12: You gained contacts through training.
You should contact people you've worked with or attended training with if you want to find a technician position.They may be able to help you get an interview.As you apply to other jobs, ask if they can serve as a reference.It is easier to get a job if you know someone who works there.You can improve your chances of landing a job if you network with other people in the automotive field.
Step 13: Entry level technician jobs are available.
You can find entry level technician positions on job board websites.You should submit the applications with a copy of your resume.If you don't hear back from places you apply to within a week or so, you should call them.It is not always necessary to deliver the application in person.
Step 14: Interviewers are dressed professionally.
If you get a call for an interview, make sure you arrive a few minutes early and dress in a way that makes you stand out.If you want to demonstrate your professionalism, you should interview in clean clothes.Clean, pressed pants and a button up shirt are always a good bet if you don't need to wear a suit.
Step 15: Discuss benefits and negotiate a salary.
Discuss the pay rate with the hiring manager after you interview and are offered a position.You can request a higher rate.You should approach it professionally if you choose to do so.Say something like, "I am extremely interested in this position, but I have a few other offers."Is it possible to offer a slightly higher pay rate?
Step 16: It's time to start your new career.
It's time to start your new career as an automotive technician once you reach an agreement with the hiring manager.Being a technician can lead to many career opportunities if you continue to pursue education and certifications.Branching out into welding, body work or specialty engine building can increase your pay rates and opportunities in the field if you become an ASE Certified Mechanic.