Do you want to learn how an auto body technician works? Find out more about the education and experience required, job duties, and salaries. Learn about this rewarding career path in this article. Here are some basic facts. First, you need to have a highschool diploma or GED. Many vocational schools only require a high school diploma. Some may require SAT/ACT scores. Some high schools offer auto body repair courses.
Career outlook
Auto body technicians are in demand. 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. This growth is not fueled by new jobs, however, and auto body technicians who are certified will have a greater job outlook. Autobody technicians can expect good jobs and plenty of opportunities for career growth after graduating.
Auto industry careers are constantly changing. To keep up with changing technologies, technicians must be skilled. 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 Required
A secondary school diploma is usually required to attend an accredited vocational school. Students who excel academically could consider joining technical club to get a strong customer services background before they pursue their career. Technical clubs offer opportunities to visit repair shops and apprentices. 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.
An auto body technician does not require a college diploma in most cases. About 45% hold a high-school diploma or GED. However, those with some college education may choose to train as an auto body technician. The time required to complete the program depends on the school. However, if you do not have a college degree, you may be able to obtain the training you need to get the job you've always wanted.
Duties of the job
An auto body technician's job entails more than just basic car repairs. They also have to maintain and repair the vehicle. They must be able to use exceptional manual dexterity and OSHA standards. They must follow all specifications provided by the manufacturer. They must pay attention to every detail and be precise in their work. They are working on the car of the customer!
An auto body technician applies fiberglass matting layers over damaged areas. They can also make custom-made windows by using power shears or templates. They use caulking guns, adhesive brushes, and other metal trimming to secure windows. They also use mallets to attach vinyl material to the roof. They use hand shears for measuring and cutting the vinyl material.
Salary
Salary for an Auto Body Technician will depend on the level of experience, whereabouts and the skills required. BLS provides information about the average compensation level for this career based on complexity of tasks and contacts as well as knowledge and the environment. The annual salary of Auto Body Technicians in the United States averages around $30,000 It is much higher in New York and California. The table below will help you determine the exact salary range for this occupation.
Auto Body Technicians receive a different amount of compensation depending on where they live. 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 is the difference between an automotive technician and a mechanic?
They are both similar, but not identical. Both a mechanic and an automotive technician can repair cars.
A mechanic must possess good manual dexterity, and be able perform simple tasks efficiently. They must also be able to diagnose problems accurately and repair them effectively.
An automotive technician needs to be more technically skilled than a mechanic. They need to be able use tools such drills and wrenches, and read blueprints.
They must also be able perform complex procedures safely. They should also be familiarized with the different types of engines as well as electrical systems.
They must also understand the interplay of different parts.
As a result, a mechanic usually earns less money than an automotive technician. But there are many opportunities for both jobs.
Is it hard to be a mechanic apprentice?
Although it's not an easy task, you will learn quickly and have many opportunities to advance.
You must have patience and perseverance. You should also be able to repair cars, trucks, and motorbikes.
Customers and family members can put a lot pressure on you. They want you to succeed. But, you shouldn’t be pressured to make any decisions you aren’t happy with.
It could be a great job choice if you love fixing cars. This job allows you to make a decent wage and build up your company.
But, you might prefer a different path. In this case, you could consider becoming a technician instead.
This requires you to use your technical expertise in support of other workers. Technicians could benefit from your technical expertise to solve problems or teach new techniques.
Another option is becoming a service advisor. Here, you'll provide advice and assistance to customers when they bring their cars to a garage.
Your decision depends on what you want to do. There are many options and you have the ability to choose the one that is right for you.
What are the requirements of an automotive technician?
You must have graduated high school or GED, with excellent English and math grades. Also, you must be able read and write. To be allowed to work, you must pass a written and practical test.
Are you a mechanic or a technician? Can I study part-time?
Although a degree is not necessary, it can be helpful. Employers will prefer candidates who have completed a degree. It shows that your efforts have been put in and you have succeeded.
But, this doesn't mean you have to stop working while studying. Some universities allow students the flexibility to finish coursework during summer vacations and resume their studies later in year. Others let students take classes part-time throughout the year.
Is it worthwhile to become a mechanic?
The answer to that question depends on what your life purpose is. If you're looking for money, then it's true. But, if there are meaning and purpose in your life, then it's not.
If you don’t have any mechanical skills, it’s pointless to get into it. It will just waste your time. It's not going to make you rich. It won't make you famous. You won't be famous.
You'd have to spend years learning how things work. Also, you would need to hire someone else to fix it if it broke down. This is why most people don’t bother. They find something more worthwhile.
Summarising, if your goal is to make lots of money, go for it. The mechanic's profession is not the right place for you if it means that you will live a fulfilled life.
Is it easy to get a job as an automotive mechanic?
Yes, it can be very easy. Many garages list their vacancies online. Many people simply apply for the fun of it. You can apply for several places to see if they are accepting student applications if you want to get your foot in their door. Another option is to ask family members and friends if anyone works in this industry. You might be able to refer someone.
How long is an automotive mechanic apprenticeship
An automotive mechanic apprenticeship takes around three years to complete. This includes two years at school and two years working as an apprentice. The first year teaches you all aspects, from theory to practical skills and safety procedures. You'll also learn the safe and efficient use of tools during this first year. After the completion of the first year, you will spend another year on the job training. Here you'll gain valuable experience in different trades. You'll have the opportunity to attend formal courses during these periods too.
The final year of the program is spent gaining qualifications and becoming certified in the field. These include NVQs, which are obtained after passing industry-specific exams. In addition, there are HNCs (Higher National Certificates) that cover general subjects such as management, business administration, and customer service. City & Guilds certificates offer qualifications in certain trades.
Statistics
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to safeguard yourself against auto mechanic scams
Scamming by auto mechanics can be a serious problem. An average car repair bill costs $1,500 annually. This is a huge opportunity for people to take advantage of it. If you are aware of what to look out for, you can avoid falling for scammers. These are some ways to spot scammers before they take your money.
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Never pay upfront. It's a scam to ask for payment upfront. Always ask for payment once work has been completed. Call the Better Business Bureau at 1-888-322-8138 to verify that the work is genuine. They will give you guidance on what to do next.
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Ask for references. Ask for references to help you make sure that you're dealing only with reputable service providers. You can also check out online reviews. You should ensure that the business you do business with has a good reputation.
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Do background checks. It is a good idea to do background checks before hiring. You can check the BBB website for complaints about the business. Also ensure that the vehicle's licence number is owned by the person who runs the business.
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Do not be afraid to leave. Sometimes, even when a company appears legit they try to scam you into paying too much. If you feel that you have been exploited, don't be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of other businesses available to you.
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Avoid "free" services. There are lots of companies that offer free estimates or free inspections. These companies usually charge exorbitant fees later. Before agreeing to any agreement, always ask about any additional costs.
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Avoid being pressured. You shouldn't be pressured by companies that offer great deals. This is because they think they can make you pay less than you deserve. It is possible to fall for a scam if you are forced to buy something.
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Quality products are important. It is important to look for high-quality parts when choosing a repair shop. If you need to replace brake pads, you don't want to go to a shop that uses cheap pads. Instead, look for a shop that specializes on brakes.
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Get multiple quotes. It is important to compare prices across shops. Comparing prices between shops will give you a better chance to find a fair price.
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Keep records. Keep track of every detail related to your repairs. This includes things such as receipts, invoices, and warranties. You should also write down any phone numbers or addresses that you receive.
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