subject: Your Guide To Great Vocational Jobs [print this page] What is it that automotive service mechanics and technicians do? Primarily, their job requires them to repair cars as well as trucks that have broken down. But only a good mechanic can identify, verify and rectify the problem as quickly as possible.
However, the type of work that mechanics undertake has gone through an extreme makeover. Their work is no longer restricted to simple mechanical repair, for today's world is an age of high technology. Auto motives no longer function under the same primary principles of motion. Their central systems are completely electronic and moreover, they are run by computers. Hence, an automobile mechanic must be able to read as well as understand any type of manual or machine that is computer-based. This does not in anyway mean that a mechanic can forget all about using hand tools.
One must not over look the fact that a career in this line requires dedication and a lot of hard work. Some auto technicians even work more than 40 hours a week. There are quite a few service shops that are open even in the late evening as well as on weekends.
If one wishes to pursue a career in this field, it is important to note that mechanics often have to lift heavy tools and parts. Hence, minor bruises, burns and cuts are a common occurrence. However, technicians can avoid the more serious accidents by keeping the area they work in clean. Furthermore, safety practices need to be of high priority.
Since automotive technology has become highly advanced, persons entering into this field must get some form of formal training. This type of training is available in high school as well as in training schools. However, some of the best mechanics have mastered their trade through mere observation.
Some basic skills that mechanics must possess is math, good reading and computer skills. An added advantage would be working as an apprentice at a mechanical service center.
Some other interesting facts are:
An automotive service technician's and mechanic's yearly wage is approximately $37,540.
Currently, there are more than 763,700 auto technician jobs available in the Automotive industry.
But most importantly, work in this field is steady, since the performance of the economy has a very low impact on this industry.
