An autobody mechanic is someone who fixes cars' damaged bodies. They use a technique called panel beating. This term is used in Commonwealth countries. A typical day in life for an autobody mechanic involves the repair and maintenance of vehicle bodies. The duties and salaries of an auto body mechanic are very similar to those of a panel beatinger. The major difference between panelbeaters and auto mechanics is the degree of education.
Job description
Here is a job description of an autobody mechanic. It will list some of your responsibilities. This occupation requires a lot of manual dexterity, as well as a lot of experience. It also requires exceptional manual skills, flexibility to work on weekends and good physical health. Because of the nature of the job, it is important to customize the job description and hiring process to attract the most qualified candidates. The job description will be your first contact with potential employees.
An auto body mechanic is responsible for performing repairs and assessing damage to vehicles. They assess the extent of damage and make repairs according to the estimate. They may also replace or repair malfunctioning parts, test the vehicle's functionality, and add new features and systems. An auto body mechanic might also paint a vehicle. These technicians use welding equipment to repair or replace parts. If a vehicle requires extensive repairs, they may even perform fiberglass body repair work.
Duties
A mechanic who repairs and maintains vehicles is one of the duties. They maintain safety and work with customers. In addition, these mechanics perform a wide variety of other duties, such as restoring a vehicle to its original condition and installing and replacing exterior parts. These mechanics use Windows computers and software to measure upper and lower body dimensions. They may be exposed to noises, vibrations dust, fumes or other elements within an automobile environment.
The primary responsibility of an auto body mechanic is to fix the vehicle's exterior, not its interior technology components. This career field focuses primarily on cars and light truck, but technicians can also be trained to work with heavy-duty vehicles like buses or semi-trucks. Auto body technicians have many duties, but the majority perform minor collision repair and structural repairs. They must also maintain all the necessary tools and equipment for their work.
Salary
Based on location and experience, the salary of an Auto Body Technician varies greatly. A basic technician earning $40,000 per year will be the most successful, while more skilled mechanics can make as much as $100,000. This information is subject to change from one state to another. Make sure to verify your specific area. Salary information for auto body mechanics is available at BLS.com. Read on to find out what your pay will be.
New York City, which is home to many accidents in automobiles every day, is the second-most expensive state. The city is home to many auto body technicians. Hawaii is the most costly state, but is well-known for its gorgeous scenery and tropical climate. Driving in this environment can be challenging, especially if it's high up. The salary for auto body mechanics varies by state but it gives an indication of the job outlook in the next decade.
Education is necessary
While a diploma from an accredited technical school is highly desirable, it is not necessary for auto body mechanics. An automotive body repair training program can take anywhere from six months to one-year. To learn more about becoming an autobody mechanic, you can contact your local repair shop or visit nearby schools. A diploma in automotive repair is also highly beneficial, as it will show potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills to perform the job. In addition, certifications are increasingly important to demonstrate competence and typically lead to higher pay.
The education required to become an auto body technician will vary depending on which degree program you choose. You will learn the basics of metal finishing and frame alignment. Additionally, you will learn skills in shop management, unibody technology, estimating and unibody technology. The training program prepares you for on-the-job training, and you'll be prepared to work independently in a body shop.
FAQ
How long is an automotive course?
An automotive course lasts for three years.
The first year of your training is devoted to theory. You will learn all about cars. The second year will be spent in practical training. Here you will learn how fix engines, drive and other mechanic jobs. The last year of your training is spent on practical training, where you learn how to fix real-world problems.
Is a career in automotive mechanic promising?
The automotive industry is full of exciting opportunities for those who are dedicated to excellence. Working hard and learning from others is the best way to be successful in this field.
Communication skills are important as customers and coworkers will often be your main focus. You will need to be able and willing travel for work, making it more difficult to commute.
Consider taking classes at local universities or community colleges if your goal is to pursue a career in the automotive industry. 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. A bachelor's degree can be obtained in four years.
Many companies will also hire graduates right out of school. You should start looking for employment as soon as you are able to continue your studies 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 you'll need to pass exams such as the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification exam. This test covers topics like engine maintenance, brakes system, suspension, and many other subjects.
Once you've passed the ASE test, you can apply for a license issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
Private individuals can have their vehicles repaired with a license. Based on the services rendered, you will receive compensation.
It is important to remember that not all states require licensing. However, licensing is required for anyone who plans to work outside the home state.
Some states don’t issue licenses until a certain amount has been completed. This may be the case for you.
What kind of car mechanic jobs exists?
There are three major areas of employment that car mechanics work in:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is the place most people begin to consider becoming mechanics. It's the easiest way for most people to get started. You have two options: work in an existing shop or open your own.
If you plan to work in a shop, you must apply to join the union. After being accepted into the union, the union will provide training.
You'll be ready for work once you have completed the training.
If you plan to open your own garage you will need to register with government. After registering, you'll be required to meet certain standards.
After you have registered, you will be issued a license to operate your garage.
Your license will allow you to sell spare parts and do minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
Apart from selling spare parts, customers will also expect you to provide guidance and advice.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics that specialize in one aspect of the vehicle. They might be able to only fix brakes or replace tires.
Some dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
These positions often require applicants to undergo specific training before being allowed to work. This allows employers to select the most qualified candidates for their roles.
Some dealerships hire students straight out of college. These graduates are already familiar with basic mechanics and can therefore learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. They are more focused on providing top-quality service.
Independent garages have the ability to afford higher wages, as they aren’t associated with any one company. Because these jobs don't have to be associated with any company, they can generally offer better wages than dealerships.
Independent garages don't necessarily make for better work environments. Many owners prefer to run their businesses themselves rather than delegate responsibility to employees.
You may find yourself working for long hours and not having control over the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. Ask your employer if you would like to work as a mechanic at a dealership.
Or, if your dream is to work for an independent garage you can contact the owner directly.
Unfortunately, finding a new job can be difficult. There are many factors that affect how much you make.
You might also consider the vehicle type you repair, and whether extra labor is charged.
Statistics
- 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)
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to Become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. A technician in automotive must be able diagnose and repair problems quickly, safely, accurately, efficiently, and effectively.
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 for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists two sections. The first section tests your mechanical skills, while the second tests your practical knowledge. You must attend one of the authorized testing sites to take the test. These testing sites can be found online and through your local dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require that candidates attend training courses, while others permit them to learn independently. Some states allow technicians to become licensed right away after receiving their license. While others wait until they have had at least six years of experience as an automotive technician.
To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeship programs usually last three years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students will learn advanced repair techniques, such as changing shocks, installing air filters, and replacing engines. Many schools offer classes during normal business hours. Some schools also offer evening classes when needed.
When a student has completed his/her apprenticeship, they become a journeyman. Journeymen usually spend four to five year learning how to install major systems like transmissions, differentials steering gear, suspensions, drive shafts, and steering gear. Journeymen also learn to fix complicated problems, such as rebuilding engines or troubleshooting electric components. Because they have a good understanding of the job and what customers expect, many employers prefer to hire journeymen.
Candidates who pass the required exams are eligible for a license. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1.7 million automotive mechanic jobs were available in 2010. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. If a candidate decides to open his/her own shop, he/she should prepare to invest many thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies.
Automotive technicians' salaries depend on many factors such as the employer, whereabouts, education level and experience. On average, a jobless person could expect to earn $20,000 annually. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. An associate's degree earns approximately $24,000 annually. Technicians with a bachelor’s degree made about $27,000 annually. Masters' degree holders earn around $32,000 per annum. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.