Auto Mechanic Career
The automobile industry is one of the largest and most important industries anywhere in the world. Apart from making movement and mobility from one place to the other easy and convenient, it is also an industry that provides a source of livelihood for millions of people all over the world directly or indirectly. One of these jobs is that of an auto mechanic.
What is an Auto Mechanic?
An auto mechanic is a service professional that is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of automobiles such as cars, buses, trucks and other types of vehicles. An auto mechanic is very relevant to the efficient and smooth running of transportation systems all over the world and as such, an auto mechanic career will always be in high demand.
Auto Mechanic Job Duties
The traditional duties of an auto mechanic used to be restricted to just mechanical work. However, with the ever changing technological developments of the automobile industry, an auto mechanic’s duties span across simple mechanical and maintenance tasks to complex ones such as diagnosing faults and carrying out extensive repairs through the aid of computerized and electrical systems.
Auto Mechanic Skills
An auto mechanic is expected to be able to learn and adapt quickly to the constantly changing face of automobile technology. An inclination towards electrical and computerized systems is highly beneficial since a lot of repairs involve the use of these highly advanced systems. An attentive mind is also needed especially in the diagnosis of automobile faults.
Auto Mechanic Education
There are several ways to get the required training in order to pursue an auto mechanic career. The most common ones are high school and vocational or technical schools programs that utilize both class room and practical teachings. With the increasingly complex mechanisms that govern the functioning of automobiles today, advanced training at learning centers and professional certification with the ASE are also available.
Auto Mechanic Salary
In May 2009, the median annual salary for auto mechanics was placed at $35,420. The bottom ten percent earned a little less than $19,840 annually and the top ten percent earned about $59,920. Workers in between these categories earned between $25,970 and $47,240 annually. Auto mechanics working with the local governments earned the highest and those working with automotive parts, accessories and tire stores earned the lowest.
Auto Mechanic Job Outlook
An auto mechanic career has a favorable outlook due to a number of reasons. The number of vehicles in the U.S. is expected to increase and this will affect the demand for auto mechanics. Highly specialized mechanics especially those who possess proficiency in electrical, computerized and other advanced technologies will be in high demand.
Gone are the days when auto mechanics were regarded with disdain. Today, most auto mechanics are well educated and respected professionals with a mastery of often complex and advanced technologies. The profession also provides an avenue for overcoming new challenges, thereby presenting opportunities for advancement professionally as well as financially.
