Do you want to learn how an auto body technician works? Learn about the educational requirements, job duties, and salary. Learn about this rewarding career path in this article. Here are some basic facts. You will need a high school diploma, or a GED. Many vocational schools only require a high school diploma. Some may require SAT/ACT scores. Even high schools can offer auto-body repair programs.
Career outlook
The demand for auto body technicians is high. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that there will soon be close to 16,000 openings for collision repair techs by 2029. This growth is largely due the aging of baby boomers. This growth is not fueled by new jobs, however, and auto body technicians who are certified will have a greater job outlook. Auto body technicians should expect to find high-paying jobs after graduation and opportunities for growth.
The auto industry changes constantly, and so are the careers within it. This is why the industry requires highly skilled technicians who can keep up with new technologies. The latest cars and repair jobs will be available to students who have completed their training. Students will be exposed to a wide range of exciting and challenging jobs as they progress through their training.
Education Required
For admission to an accredited vocational school, you will need a diploma from secondary school. To develop strong customer service skills, students who excel academically might consider joining technical clubs. 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. Whatever your chosen area of expertise, it is important that you have excellent communication and analytical skills.
A college degree is not required to become an autobody technician in most cases. In fact, about 45% of these professionals hold a high school diploma or a GED. For those who have some college education, an auto body technician program might be more appealing. Depending on the school, the training program may take anywhere from six months to a year. 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.
Job duties
Auto body technicians are responsible for maintaining and repairing cars. Technicians must adhere to OSHA and ASE standards. They also need exceptional manual dexterity. They should also adhere to specifications set forth by the manufacturer. Specifications may differ from one vehicle. This job requires that they pay great attention to detail. 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. To install vinyl material onto the car's roof, they also use mallets. To cut vinyl material for the roof, they use hand shears.
Salary
The Salary for Auto Body Technician is highly dependent on experience level, location and the skill set required. The BLS provides data on the compensation level for this profession based on complexity of tasks, contacts, 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. New York, which pays 12.2% more than average, is the most well-paid state. The annual salary for an Auto Body Technician will vary depending on what type of work they do, where they are located, and how much experience they have. You should also consider the cost per capita in the area where your dream home is located.
FAQ
What qualifications are necessary to become a mechanic
A series of exams is necessary to become a mechanic. These include:
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A general knowledge test
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Practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests are intended to make sure you have a solid understanding of the basics of mechanics before you can start your career as a mechanic.
You'll be eligible for work as a mechanic after you have passed the tests. However, you'll still need to complete an apprenticeship. This will involve training in your trade.
To fully understand the mechanics of vehicle repairs, you'll need workshops and classes. You'll also have to work alongside experienced mechanics.
A mechanic must be highly focused and attentive to detail in order to succeed. You'll need to pay close attention to every aspect of vehicle repairs.
To become a good mechanic, you need patience and persistence. If you don’t like following directions, then this career path may not suit you.
But if you love cars and enjoy fixing them, you could be very happy in this line of work.
What are the basics of car mechanics?
For an auto mechanic job, you don’t have to be an expert in cars. You only need to know how to fix them. Most people begin by changing brake pads and tires, before moving on to more complicated repairs.
You'll need the ability to read and understand diagrams and to follow simple rules of good practise. Also, you will need to know how to tell if parts require replacing or repair.
It's important to remember that you shouldn't attempt to repair vehicles without having received proper training and guidance. This is especially important if you work with expensive parts such as 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 involves understanding how engines work and how brakes work.
It's also worth noting that you'll need to be prepared to deal with all sorts of situations. For example, you may find yourself working on a vehicle that has been involved in a serious accident. You'll also need experience dealing with breakdowns and accidents.
You must also be willing to learn quickly. As well as being able to diagnose problems, you'll need to be able to perform simple maintenance tasks such as tightening nuts and bolts.
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
There are three main areas of employment for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people first think of becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can 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. Once you're accepted into the union, you'll receive training from the union.
Once you complete the training, it's time to get started.
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.
You will receive a license to run your garage once you have registered.
Your license allows you to sell spare parts and make minor repairs. It won't allow you to fix major engine problems.
As well as selling spare parts you will need to offer advice and direction to customers.
Dealership jobs
Many dealerships have mechanics who are experts in one particular area. They might specialize in one area, such as brakes and tires.
However, some dealerships also hire general mechanics who can handle all aspects of car repairs.
These positions often require applicants that they undergo special training before being allowed work. This means employers can choose which candidates are best suited for their role.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages do not belong to any dealership. Instead, they focus on high-quality customer 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 can be just as good places to work, but this does not mean they are better. Many business owners prefer to own their businesses and not delegate the responsibility to others.
This could lead to you working long hours with little control over your day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
It's possible to switch between jobs. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
You could also apply directly to an owner of a garage if that's what you want.
Finding a new job is not always easy. Many other factors can also influence the amount you earn.
You might also consider the vehicle type you repair, and whether extra labor is charged.
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)
- 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)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
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How To
How to properly diagnose and repair your vehicle
Before you can determine if your car requires repairs, it's important to first analyze the symptoms. Follow these steps to properly diagnose your vehicle.
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Check engine lights. Make sure to check all dashboard indicators like the engine light indicator (oil pressure gauge), the battery indicator (battery light indicator), and the RPM indicator (rpm gauge). If any of them have been flashing for several days, it may mean something is wrong with your vehicle.
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Examine the treads of the tires. Tires that are worn can cause issues with handling and braking. Also, inspect the treads of your wheels. They should be smooth and clean. The best way to do this is to remove the wheels and take them off. A flashlight can be used to check how worn the treads are.
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Observe the brake fluid level. It is important to keep track of how much brake fluid you have in your car. This will ensure your brakes function properly. Low brake fluid levels can cause brake failure when you apply pressure.
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Make sure to test the suspension system. The suspension system in vehicles absorbs vibrations and shocks. This suspension system provides greater control and smoother acceleration and deceleration. If your vehicle has a suspension problem, it might feel wobbly or shake uncontrollably. If you are unsure if your vehicle is suffering from a suspension problem, put weight on the front and rear axles to check the movement.
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Take a look at the steering column. Steering columns connect the steering wheels to other parts of the vehicle. Accidents often damage steering columns. If yours feels loose or shaky, you should replace it.
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Observe the exhaust pipe. The exhaust pipes are responsible for moving gases from the combustion chamber into the atmosphere. You can let harmful fumes into your home if your exhaust pipes crack or leak. If your tailpipe bends, it is important to fix it immediately.
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Take a look under your hood. Take a look underneath the hood to find any strange or unusual items. Your engine could be leaking fluids. You should also contact a professional technician if there is an unusual odor coming from the engine compartment.
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Make sure to check the air filter. The outside environment can collect dust and other debris in your vehicle's air filters. A dirty air filter causes your vehicle to run poorly. Replace your air filter regularly.
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The fan belt should be checked. Your vehicle's fan belt connects the engine to the transmission. The engine will not turn if the fan belt breaks. It's easy to replace the belt. All you need is a screwdriver and some pliers.
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Verify the radiator hoses. The radiator hose carries water from the radiator to the engine. It can crack or become damaged and leak hot liquid onto an engine. To repair the hose, you will only need to use a pair needle-nosepliers and a wire brush.
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You should inspect the windshield wipers. Windshield wipers use electricity to wipe away rain and snow. They can leave streaks on your windows glass if they stop working. To fix the problem, simply change the washer fluid.
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Make sure you check the cables. Batteries provide power to electrical systems inside your car. When you replace batteries, make sure to disconnect the negative cable first. Failure to do so can damage your alternator.
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Pay attention to your headlights. Headlights help you see the road ahead. They can make it difficult to see if they stop working. You can check the bulbs to make sure they aren't burned out.
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Always check your lights. You can warn other drivers if you approach them at night. You could be distracted and cause an accident if one does not work.
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Inspect your brakes. Before you get in a car accident, your brakes will be slowing down your vehicle. If the brakes fail to work correctly, your car could lose control and collide with another vehicle.
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Change the oil. The oilkeeps your engine lubricated. It helps keep metal parts from getting too worn down. Changing the oil every month is recommended.