Automotive Service Technician Career Highlights

• Formal automotive technician training is the best preparation for these challenging technology-based automotive jobs.
• Prospects should be very good for automotive service technicians and mechanics with diagnostic and problem-solving skills, knowledge of electronics and mathematics, and mechanical aptitude.
• Automotive service technicians and mechanics must continually adapt to changing technology and repair techniques as vehicle components and systems become progressively more sophisticated.

Nature of the Work

If your car or light truck has ever broken down you know the importance of automotive service technicians and mechanics. Their ability to diagnose the source of a problem quickly and accurately requires good reasoning ability and knowledge of automobiles. Many technicians consider diagnosing hard-to-find problems one of their most challenging and satisfying duties.

The work of automotive service technicians and mechanics has advanced from mechanical repair to a high technology job. Consequently, these workers are usually called "technicians" in automotive services and the term "mechanic" is rapidly falling into disuse. Today, integrated electronic systems and complex computers run vehicles and measure their performance. Technicians must have a broad base of knowledge about how vehicles’ complex components work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical manuals.

Auto service techs use their skills to inspect, maintain, and repair automobiles and light trucks that run on gasoline, ethanol and other alternative fuels, such as electricity. The growing sophistication of automotive technology now requires workers who can use computerized shop equipment and work with electronic components, while at the same time maintaining their skills with traditional hand tools.

Automotive service technicians use a variety of tools in their work. They will use power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches to remove bolts quickly; machine tools like lathes and grinding machines to rebuild brakes; welding and flame-cutting equipment to remove and repair exhaust systems, and jacks and hoists to lift cars and engines. Common hand tools are used, such as screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches, to work on small parts and in hard-to-reach places.

Computers have become commonplace in modern auto repair shops. Service technicians compare readouts from computerized diagnostic testing devices with benchmarked standards provided by the auto manufacturer. Deviations outside of acceptable levels are a flag to the technician that attention to that area is necessary. A shop’s computerized system normally provides automatic updates to technical manuals and unlimited access to manufacturers’ service information, technical service bulletins, and other databases that permit technicians to keep current on problem areas and to learn new procedures.

In large shops, automotive service technicians have increasingly become specialized. For example, transmission technicians and rebuilders repair gear trains, couplings, hydraulic pumps, and other parts of transmissions. Broad knowledge of computer controls, the ability to diagnose electrical and hydraulic problems, and other specialized skills are necessary to work on these complex components, which employ some of the most sophisticated technology used in vehicles. Tuneup technicians adjust the ignition timing and valves. They also adjust or replace spark plugs and other parts to ensure efficient engine performance, often using electronic testing equipment to isolate and adjust malfunctions in fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems.

Automotive air-conditioning repairers install and repair air-conditioners. They service air-conditioning components, such as compressors, condensers, and controls. These workers require special training in Federal and State regulations governing how to handle and dispose of refrigerants. Front-end mechanics align and balance wheels, repair steering mechanisms and suspension systems, and frequently use special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines. Brake repairers adjust brakes, replace brake linings and pads. Some brake repair technicians specialize in both brake and front-end work. Although electronics and electronic systems in automobiles were a specialty in the past, electronics are now commonplace, so it is essential for all types of service technicians to be familiar with at least the basic principles of electronics.

Almost half of automotive service technicians work more than 40 hours a week. Many also work evenings and weekends to satisfy customer service needs. Normally, service technicians work indoors in well-ventilated and well-lighted repair shops. However, some shops can be drafty and noisy. Technicians often work with dirty and greasy parts, and in awkward positions. They frequently lift heavy parts and tools. Technicians can usually avoid serious accidents if the shop is kept clean and orderly, and safety practices are observed; however, minor cuts, burns, and bruises are common.

Automotive technology is quickly increasing in sophistication. Most training authorities highly recommend that persons seeking automotive service technician and mechanic jobs complete a formal training program in high school, or in a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Courses in automotive repair, electronics and computers, physics, chemistry, English, and math provide a good educational background for a successful career as a service technician.

High school programs, while beneficial, vary greatly in scope. Some attempt to equip graduates with enough skills to get a job as a technician’s helper or trainee technician. Other programs offer merely an introduction to automotive technology and service for the future consumer or hobbyist. Postsecondary automotive technician training programs vary largely in format, but generally provide intensive preparation through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Many trade and technical school programs offer concentrated training for 6 months to a year, depending on how many hours the student attends each week, and award a certificate of completion. Some excellent training programs are even available by distance learning and on the Internet. Community college programs generally award an associate degree or certificate. Usually the training is spread over 2 years by supplementing the automotive training with instruction in English, basic mathematics, computers, and other pertinent subjects.

Employers look for people with strong communication and analytical skills for trainee automotive service technician positions. Technicians need good reading, mathematics, and computer skills to research technical manuals and to keep up with new technology and to learn new service and repair procedures and specifications. Trainees must also possess some mechanical aptitude and knowledge of how automobiles work. Many employers regard successful completion of a vocational training program in automotive service technology as the best preparation for trainees. Experience working on motor vehicles in the Armed Forces or as a hobby is also beneficial. Due to the complexity of new vehicles, more and more employers require not only completion of high school but also additional postsecondary training.

Some training in electronics is vital because electrical components, or a series of related components, account for nearly all malfunctions in modern vehicles. In addition to electronics and computers, automotive service technicians need to learn and understand the science behind the alternate-fuel vehicles. For example, Hybrid vehicles use the energy from braking to recharge batteries that power an electric motor, which supplements a gasoline engine. Since vehicles with these new technologies are becoming more common, technicians need additional training to learn the science and engineering that makes them possible. Some technicians will likely specialize in the service and repair of these vehicles.

Automotive service trainees usually start as trainee technicians, technicians’ helpers, or lubrication workers, and over time acquire and practice their skills by working with experienced mechanics and technicians. After gaining a few months’ experience, beginners will perform many routine service tasks and make simple repairs. Some graduates of postsecondary automotive training programs are frequently able to earn promotion to the journey level after only a few months on the job. It typically takes 2 to 5 years of experience to become a journey level service technician. Journey level techs are expected to quickly perform the more difficult types of routine service and repairs. An additional 1 to 2 years of experience helps to familiarize technicians with all types of repairs; complex specialties, such as transmission repair, require another year or two of training and experience. On the other hand, brake specialists may learn their jobs in much less time since they do not need a complete knowledge of automotive repair.

Hand tools are the most important possessions of technicians. They usually provide their own tools, and many experienced workers will invest thousands of dollars in their tools. Employers usually furnish expensive power tools, engine analyzers, and other diagnostic equipment, but technicians accumulate hand tools with experience. Many formal training programs have alliances with tool manufacturers which help entry-level technicians accumulate tools during their training period.

Employers often send their experienced automotive service technicians to manufacturer training centers to learn to repair new models or to receive special training in the repair of components, such as electronic fuel injection or air-conditioners. Car dealers and other automotive service providers also may send techs to manufacturer-sponsored technician training programs. Factory representatives frequently visit repair shops to conduct short training sessions.

Certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has become a standard credential for automotive service technicians. ASE certification is available in 1 or more of 8 separate areas of automotive service, such as electrical systems, engine repair, brake systems, suspension and steering, and heating and air-conditioning. To earn certification in each area, technicians must have at least 2 years of experience and pass an examination. Successful completion of an automotive training program in high school, vocational or trade school, or community or junior college may be substituted for 1 year of experience. To earn an ASE certification as a master automobile technician, technicians must be certified in all eight areas. Technicians are required to retake each examination once every 5 years to maintain their certification status.

Experienced technicians possessing leadership ability sometimes advance to shop supervisor or service manager. Those technicians who work well with customers may become automotive repair service estimators, and some with sufficient funds open independent repair shops.

Employment

In 2004, automotive service technicians and mechanics held about 803,000 job. Most worked for automotive repair and maintenance shops, automobile dealers, and retailers and wholesalers of automotive parts, accessories, and supplies, while others found employment in gasoline stations; home and auto supply stores; automotive equipment rental and leasing companies; Federal, State, and local governments; and other organizations. Over 16 percent of service technicians were self-employed, more than twice the percentage of all installation, maintenance, and repair occupations.

Career opportunities in this occupation are expected to be very good for persons who complete automotive training programs in high school, vocational and technical schools, or community colleges, since employers report difficulty finding workers with the right skills. People with good diagnostic and problem-solving abilities, and whose training includes basic electronics and computer courses, should have the best opportunities. For well-prepared persons with a technical background, an automotive service technician career offers an excellent opportunity for good pay and the satisfaction of highly skilled work with vehicles incorporating the latest in advanced technology. However, people without formal automotive training are likely to face stiff competition for entry-level jobs.

Employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase as fast as the average through the year 2014; over the 2004-14 period, demand for technicians will grow as the number of vehicles on the road increases, reflecting continued growth in the number of multi-car families. Growth in demand will be somewhat offset by decreasing population growth and the continuing increase in the quality and durability of automobiles, which will require less frequent service. More job openings will be due to the need to replace a growing number of retiring technicians, who tend to be the most experienced workers.

Most persons entering the occupation can expect steady work, even through downturns in the economy. Although car owners may wait for maintenance and repair on their vehicles when their budgets become strained, and employers of automotive technicians may cutback hiring new workers, changes in economic conditions generally have minor effects on the automotive service and repair business.

Employment growth will be concentrated in automobile dealerships and independent automotive repair shops. New jobs will be created in small retail operations that offer after-warranty repairs, such as oil changes, brake repair, air-conditioner service, and other minor repairs generally taking less than 4 hours to complete, while employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics in gasoline service stations will continue to decline, as fewer stations offer repair services.

In May 2004, median hourly earnings of automotive service technicians and mechanics, including commission, were $15.60. The middle 50 percent of auto service techs earned between $11.31 and $20.75 per hour, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $8.70. The highest 10 percent earned more than $26.22 per hour. Median annual earnings in the sectors employing the largest numbers of service technicians in May 2004 were as follows:

Some experienced technicians employed by automobile dealers and independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor cost charged to the customer; under this method, weekly earnings depend on the amount of work completed.

For more about work opportunities, contact local automobile dealers and repair shops, as well as local offices of the State employment service. Often state employment offices also may have information about training programs.

Information about certified automotive service technician training programs can be requested from:

For a free directory of trade and technical schools that offer programs in automotive service technician training, go to 

Information on how to become a certified automotive service technician is available from:

For general information about a career as an automotive service technician, contact:

*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.