
Learn how to become an automotive body technician. Learn more about the requirements for this job, including education, experience, job duties and salaries. Learn about this rewarding career path in this article. Here are some basics. First, you should have a high school diploma or GED. Many vocational schools only require a high-school diploma. Some schools may require SAT/ACT scores. Some high schools offer auto repair programs.
Career outlook
There is a high demand for auto body technicians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there will be close to 16,000 job openings for collision repair technicians by 2029, largely due to the baby boomers' aging population. However, this growth is not driven by new jobs. Auto body technicians who have been certified will enjoy a better job outlook. Auto body technicians can expect to find great jobs after graduation with lots of career opportunities.
The auto industry is changing rapidly, so careers in this sector are always evolving. The field demands skilled technicians who are able to keep up to date with new technologies. Students who complete their training will be exposed to the newest cars and the latest repair jobs. While they may face different challenges during their career, they will still have many exciting and challenging opportunities as they continue their education.

Education required
For admission to an accredited vocational school, you will need a diploma from secondary school. Technical clubs are a great way to build customer service skills and academic excellence. Technical clubs can organize visits to auto dealerships and apprenticeships in repair shops. These experiences will help you transition into a career as an auto 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. A majority of these professionals actually have a highschool diploma or GED. For those who have some college education, an auto body technician program might be more appealing. The length of the program will vary depending on which school you choose. It can take between six months and one year, depending on what school you go to. A college degree may not be required to get the training needed to get the job you desire.
Job duties
A technician who works as an auto body technie is responsible for maintaining and repairing vehicles. They must be able to use exceptional manual dexterity and OSHA standards. They should also adhere to specifications set forth by the manufacturer. Specifications may differ from one vehicle. This job requires them to pay close attention to details and to be thorough in performing their duties. After all, it is the customer's car that they're working on!
The technician can also apply layers of fiberglass matting to repair areas. They can also use templates and power shears to cut windows that are customized. 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 Technie depends on your experience level, the location, and the skills set. 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 higher in places such as California and New York. In the following table, we'll explore how to determine the exact salary for this profession.
Auto Body Technicians get different amounts depending on the state they are working in. New York is the state that pays 12.2% less than the national median. It is also the highest-paying. 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. You should also consider the cost per capita in the area where your dream home is located.
FAQ
Is being an auto mechanic a promising career choice?
Automotive is an exciting industry filled with opportunities for people who are committed to excellence. This field requires hard work and the willingness to learn from others.
Communication skills are important as customers and coworkers will often be your main focus. It is important that you are willing to travel, work long hours and be able to commute.
Take classes at community colleges or universities if you're interested to work in automotive. Many schools have programs that are specifically tailored for students who are interested in automotive sales, repair, and customer service.
Studying mechanical engineering is an option if you're interested in pursuing a degree. It's possible to get a bachelor's degree in just four years.
Many employers will hire graduates straight out from school. It's a smart idea to begin looking for work while you have the opportunity to study part-time.
After you complete your education, you may need to undergo some type of training before you can become an automotive technician.
This means that you must pass the Automotive Service Excellence exam. This test covers engine maintenance and brakes as well as suspension.
After passing the ASE exam, you can apply for a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence license.
You can repair vehicles owned by private citizens with a license. You'll get compensation based on the amount of services you perform.
It is important to remember that not all states require licensing. However, if you plan to work outside your home state, you'll need to obtain a license.
Some states will not issue licenses until an individual has completed certain training. If you are one of these people, you might need to look for another alternative.
Is it easy to get a job as an automotive mechanic?
Yes, it is possible. Many garages post their vacancies online. Many people apply simply because they think it might make them feel good. Try applying to a few jobs and seeing if the garages accept student applications. You could also ask your family and friends if they know anyone in the industry. They might be happy to recommend someone.
Can I work as an auto mechanic without a degree? Can I study part-time?
A degree isn't necessary, but it certainly helps. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who have completed a complete degree. This shows you have put in the work and achieved success.
However, it doesn't mean you can't still work while studying. Some universities allow students the flexibility to finish coursework during summer vacations and resume their studies later in year. Other universities permit students to take classes part-time during the school year.
What information do I need about car mechanics
Auto mechanics don't require any knowledge. Only you need to know how things work. Most people begin by changing brake pads and tires, before moving on to more complicated repairs.
You will need to understand written instructions, read diagrams and follow the basic rules of good practices. You'll also need to be able to judge whether parts need replacing or repairing.
It is important to understand that vehicle repairs should only be attempted by those who have received the proper training. This is especially true when you are dealing with costly components like engines and transmissions.
Although you won't be required to know much about cars you should have a solid understanding of the fundamentals and principles of mechanical engineering. This involves understanding how engines work and how brakes work.
It is also important to remember that you will need to be able to handle many situations. One example is when you could be working on a vehicle involved in a serious crash. You will also need to be able to deal with accidents and breakdowns.
Finally, you need to be willing and able to quickly learn new skills. You will need to be able not only to diagnose problems but also to perform simple maintenance tasks like tightening bolts and nuts.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 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)
- According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in the United States was $44,050 in May 2020. (uti.edu)
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How To
How to become an automotive technician
An automotive technician performs repairs and maintains vehicles. He/she can be found at auto shops, garages and service centers. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. An automotive technician must be able to diagnose problems and make repairs quickly, 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 the program, he/she must pass ASE certification. ASE stands in for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Two sections make up the ASE certification examination. The first section tests for mechanical knowledge, the second for practical skills. You must attend one of the authorized testing sites to take the test. These locations can be found online, or by contacting your local car dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. The process will vary depending on where an applicant lives. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. In addition, some states license technicians immediately after they receive their license, while others wait until they have completed at least six months of employment as an automotive technician.
Apply to your local dealership to become an automotive technician. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeships last for three years. The apprenticeship program teaches students how to change oil, adjust brakes, replace tires, clean spark plugs, inspect engine compartments, and perform routine maintenance. Some students are able to perform more advanced repairs such as replacing shocks and installing air filters. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools offer evening classes, however.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master 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 learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Many employers prefer to hire Journeymen because they understand the job well.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), almost 1.7million automotive mechanic jobs were on the market. This number was expected increase 18% between 2009 - 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. A jobless person could make an average of $20,000 annually. Someone with only a high school diploma could earn around $21,000 per year. Earnings for those with an associate's diploma are approximately $24,000/year. Technicians with a bachelor's degree earn about $27,000 per annum. And those with master's degrees made around $32,000 per year. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.