An automotive technician is a profession for those who enjoy technical and hands-on work. Technicians are required to understand mechanical and computerized aspects of vehicles, so they develop a wealth of knowledge. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the role, its requirements, and how to find the perfect technician for your business.
What Does an Automotive Technician Do?
Automotive technicians are well-versed in how a vehicle works — what parts perform different functions. They are responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicle systems, including steering issues, a car’s engine, and electronic components. An automotive technician's role is considered to be closely related to what a mechanic does, but some recognize technicians as having more of a focus on electronic concerns in addition to mechanical ones.
For example, an automotive technician might need to work on a vehicle’s software or electrical issues, which is an aspect that is becoming more important as vehicles are increasingly integrated with software functionality. Someone in this role may also deal more with drivability complaints in addition to maintenance.1
In order to diagnose issues, automotive technicians need to perform test drives and use several diagnostic tools to get insight into issues such as computer error codes and voltage readings. These professionals may use hydraulic and power tools for repairs or lifting a vehicle to access parts underneath it.
Additionally, automotive technicians perform regular maintenance such as tune-ups, oil changes, and inspections. Some technicians may eventually get experienced in specialized fields, such as working on high performance race cars or training as front-end technicians. Front-end technicians, for example, focus on handling and tire performance. These are just two examples of specialized automotive technicians.2
What Is the Job Description of an Automotive Technician?
A job description for an automotive technician should make it clear that technical aptitude is required in the automotive field, especially with computer and electrical aspects. If the role is for a highly-specialized type of technician, this should be accurately specified as well to attract the best suited candidates. Below are several examples of potential responsibilities that an automotive technician may be expected to take on.
Technical Duties
- Update electronic systems to maintain and/or improve vehicle performance.
- Conduct vehicle inspections and ensure vehicles comply with local regulations about environmental and safety requirements.
- Report safety issues and provide corrective actions for vehicles that do not meet standards to management.
- Demonstrate willingness to learn about new technologies, equipment, and evolving mechanical and electrical systems.
Hands-On Tasks
- Perform routine inspections and maintenance.
- Ensure vehicles are mechanically sound by road testing them after repairs, paying extra attention to the exhaust, brake and hydraulic, and electrical systems.
- Clean interior and exterior parts of vehicles to upkeep their appeal.
- Ability to lift heavy objects, including tires and wheels, as well as the willingness to stand, sit, squat, and bend for extended periods of time while working on vehicles.
Clerical Responsibilities
- Manage automotive part and tool inventories, including record keeping from purchases and sales, as well as ordering parts for repairs.
- Maintain records, including vehicle service records and warranties.
- Answer inquiries from customers through phone calls or emails.
How Can Someone Become an Automotive Technician?
Anyone looking to become an automotive technician should ensure that they have a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years old. Additional requirements may include the following:
Education
- High School diploma or General Education Degree (GED) equivalent.
- Apprenticeship and/or internship in the field is a bonus.
- Vocational school training and certification is a plus.
- Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications are a bonus and help a candidate stand out. These certifications are given to individuals who pass evaluations after receiving professional training to work in the automotive fields.3,4
Industry Knowledge
- Minimum of three years of experience in auto diagnostics and repairs.
- Previous knowledge of exhaust, primary, and advanced fuel ignition systems.
- Ability to interpret and understand computer systems.
- Well-versed in industry safety policies and standards.
What to Look For When Hiring an Auto Body Technician
Applicants seeking to pursue a career in this role should meet the requirements above before applying, as well as possess the skills listed below. Dealerships looking to hire someone for this role should look for the following:
Core Skills
- Excellent customer service skills. This includes listening to customer requirements and the ability to communicate vehicle issues and options for correcting them.
- Ability to read and understand technical documentation and vehicle manuals.
- Ability to focus on the smaller details in addition to being able to see the big picture.
- Possess a strong work ethic.
- Ability to work independently and be a self-motivated individual; similarly, ability to work with a team and possess a team-player mindset.
- Motivated to continue learning and develop new skills.3
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Sources:
- Universal Technical Institute (6/22/2018). The Difference Between an Automotive Mechanic and an Automotive Technician. Universal Technical Institute. Retrieved (08/07/2024) from, https://www.uti.edu/blog/automotive/the-difference-between-a-mechanic-and-an-automotive-technician
- New England Tech (8/17/2020). What is an Automotive Technician. New England Tech. Retrieved (08/07/2024) from, https://www.neit.edu/blog/what-is-an-automotive-technician
- Monster (N/A). Automobile Technician Job Description Template. Monster. Retrieved (08/07/2024) from, https://hiring.monster.com/resources/job-descriptions/maintenance/automobile-technician-mechanic/
- ZipRecreuiter Marketplace Research Team (N/A). What is an Automotive Technician and How to Become One. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved (08/07/2024) from, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/career/Automotive-Technician/What-Is-How-to-Become
