Learn how to become an automotive body technician. Find out more about the education and experience required, job duties, and salaries. This article will provide information on this rewarding career path. Here are some basic facts. A high school diploma or GED is required. Most vocational schools require only a high school diploma. Others may require SAT or ACT scores. There are even high schools that offer auto body repair programs.
Career outlook
In demand are 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. Autobody technicians can expect good jobs and plenty of opportunities for career growth after graduating.
The auto industry is ever-evolving, and careers in this industry are continually changing. The field demands skilled technicians who are able to keep up to date with new technologies. After completing their training, students will have the opportunity to work on the most recent cars and fix them. They will face many challenges as they work, but they will also have an array of challenging and exciting opportunities.
Education necessary
An accredited vocational school will usually require a secondary school diploma. Students who excel academically could consider joining technical club to get a strong customer services background before they pursue their career. Technical clubs can arrange visits to automobile dealerships or apprenticeships in repair shops. These experiences can help ease the transition into an autobody technician career. Regardless of your preferred area of expertise, you must have strong communication and analytical skills.
A college degree is not required to become an autobody technician in most cases. About 45% hold a high-school diploma or GED. An auto body technician training program may be a better option for those who have completed some college education. Depending on the school, the training program may take anywhere from six months to a year. A college degree may not be required to get the training needed to get the job you desire.
Job duties
An auto body technician's job entails more than just basic car repairs. They also have to maintain and repair the vehicle. These technicians must comply with OSHA and ASE standards. They also need to follow manufacturer specifications, which can vary from vehicle to vehicle. This job requires them to pay close attention to details and to be thorough in performing their duties. It is their customer's vehicle that they are working on.
In addition to the repair work, the auto body technician will also apply fiberglass matting layers to the areas that require repairs. They can also make custom-made windows by using power shears or templates. They use adhesive brushes and caulking guns to secure windows and other metal trim. The roof is also installed using vinyl material by mallets. They also use hand shears in order to measure and cut the vinyl material.
Salary
Salary for Auto Body Technicians is dependent on experience and location. The BLS provides data on the compensation level for this profession based on complexity of tasks, contacts, knowledge, and the environment. In the United States, the salary for Auto Body Technicians averages $30,000 per annum. It is usually higher in New York City and California. The following table will show you how to figure the exact salary of this profession.
Auto Body Technicians are paid a varied amount depending on their location and state. The best-paying state is New York, which pays 12.2% above the national average. The average salary of an Auto Body Technician is $18,500 to $101,000 depending on the job, whereabouts, and the experience level. However, it's important to consider the cost of living in the area where you want to live.
FAQ
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. Before you can start working, you will have to pass a written exam and take a series practical tests.
What is the average time it takes to become a mechanic?
Expert mechanics take years of practice and extensive experience. The best way to learn how to repair cars is by working under the supervision of a professional mechanic.
You will spend time in a workshop learning everything you can about cars. You will need to be familiar with mechanical engineering books about mechanics, car design, and other topics.
And you'll also need to attend auto school.
It is important to get started early. To learn about automotive technology, don't wait to be older. Do you want to be a mechanic? Get started today!
What length is an automotive course?
A three-year course in automotive is required.
The first year focuses on theory and learning about cars. Practical training is the second year. You will learn to drive, fix engines and perform other tasks around the car. The last year is spent at a local shop, where you will get practical experience with real-world problems.
What information do I need about car mechanics
For an auto mechanic job, you don’t have to be an expert in cars. All you need to know is how to fix things. It's why many people begin to fix things by fitting brake pads or changing tires.
It is important to be able to read and understand diagrams as well as written instructions. It is also important to know how to determine if parts are damaged or need to be replaced.
It is important to understand that vehicle repairs should only be attempted by those who have received the proper training. This is especially true if your job involves expensive parts like transmissions or engines.
In fact, even though you won't need to know much about cars, you will need to thoroughly know the basics of mechanical engineering and physics. This will include understanding the basic principles of engine operation and brake function.
Noting that all situations are possible, it is important to be prepared. If your vehicle has been in an accident, you might need to be able to handle it. Also, you'll need to be familiar with dealing with accidents or breakdowns.
Finally, you need to be willing and able to quickly learn new skills. It is important to be able both to diagnose problems and perform simple maintenance tasks, such as tightening nuts.
Is it important which college I go?
No, not really. There is no difference in the programs offered by colleges for getting into automotive work. But, there are better programs at some schools than others. Look elsewhere if you want something more niche.
What qualifications do you need to be a truck-mechanic?
This job requires you to be a skilled mechanic, although you do not need any formal training. Your knowledge is valuable as you are able to quickly diagnose problems and work efficiently.
Also, your knowledge of diesel technology will be a benefit as you can help us understand which parts are needed for our vehicles.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 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)
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
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How To
How to become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she works at car dealerships, auto shops, garages, service centers, etc. 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 be capable of diagnosing problems and making repairs safely, accurately and efficiently.
A person who wants to work as an automotive technician should first obtain an associate degree from a vocational school. After completing this program, he/she must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. One section tests mechanical knowledge; the second section tests practical skills. To pass the test, you will need to visit an authorized testing location. These locations are available online or through your local automotive dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass an examination in order to be licensed as an automotive technician. This process varies depending on where the applicant lives. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them study on their own. Some states require technicians to be licensed immediately upon receiving their license. Other states wait until they have been employed as automotive technicians for at least six month.
A person must apply to an auto dealership in order to get started as an automobile technician. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. Apprenticeships last for three years. During this time, a student learns how to perform basic repairs, such as changing oil, adjusting brakes, replacing tires, cleaning spark plugs, inspecting engine compartments, and performing routine maintenance. Advanced repairs can be done by some students, including replacing shocks, installing air filters and repairing engines. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
After completing an apprenticeship, a student becomes a journeyman. Journeymen spend typically four to five years learning to install major systems such as transmissions and differentials, steering gear, suspensions and drive shafts. They also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. 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 Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 1.7 million available jobs in the automotive mechanic field in 2010. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. The candidate should expect to invest thousands of money in equipment and supplies if he/she decides to start his/her shop.
The salary of an automotive technician will depend on many factors including where you live, your education level, experience and the type of employer. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. Someone with only a high school diploma could earn around $21,000 per year. A bachelor's degree is equivalent to approximately $24,000 annually. A technician with a bachelor's degree earned approximately $27,000 annually. A master's degree earns around $32,000 per a year. 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.