The Ultimate Resource For Auto Mechanic Career Path
Technology has made us heavily dependent on vehicles.
In the US, approximately 69 million vehicles break down every year.
Hence, the need for auto mechanics is continuously increasing.
There are more than a hundred thousand auto mechanics in the US.
You’re in the right place if you also want to become one.
Here is what you need to know about this career path.
Auto Mechanic Job Information
| Official Job Title | Auto Mechanic |
| Average Salary | $46,309 |
| Stress Level | Average |
| Work/Life | Low |
| Job Satisfaction | Average |
| Career Advancement | High |
Auto Mechanic Job Description
Here are the job details of an auto mechanic to help you understand their purpose:
What Is An Auto Mechanic?
An auto mechanic is a vehicle maintenance expert that diagnoses issues.
They repair cars, trucks, and much more.
Typically, they work full-time jobs at auto shops.
Besides that, various car dealers also hire auto mechanics for private customers.
However, some of them prefer to work independently as well.
What Does An Auto Mechanic Do On A Daily Basis?
The daily tasks of auto mechanics vary depending on the workloads.
Primarily, they fix the vehicles that are at the shop for repair.
Besides that, they conduct maintenance services daily too.
For example, washing cars is a part of the daily routine of many auto mechanics.
Additionally, they have to interact with customers every day as well.
This is to learn more information about the vehicle issue.
Responsibilities, Duties & Role Of An Auto Mechanic?
Many responsibilities fall under auto mechanics.
For example, they have to conduct diagnostic tests frequently.
This allows them to determine malfunctioning issues in a vehicle.
Besides that, they must remove and replace old parts from the car and replace them.
Sometimes auto mechanics must go to the automotive markets.
If they work independently, they have to search for replacement parts themselves.
The primary role of an auto mechanic is to diagnose and resolve vehicle issues.
However, their responsibilities and duties can vary depending on the employer.
Auto Mechanic Salary
Below are the salaries of auto mechanics depending on their career status:
Average Salary
The yearly average salary of an auto mechanic is $46,108 in the US.
This means they earn about $22 per hour.
Additionally, this figure depends primarily on working hours and area.
For example, the cities of California offer higher national average salaries.
Currently, auto mechanics in San Francisco earns the highest amount in the US.
Hence, you must search your area’s average figure and the demand for auto mechanics there.
Starting Salary
Auto mechanics start their careers with a salary of $39,494 per year.
This comes down to about $18 per hour.
Senior Salary
A Senior Auto Mechanic’s yearly salary is $68,858 in the US.
Only the top 10% of auto mechanics earn this amount.
How To Become An Auto Mechanic
If you love to fix vehicles, you’re in the right place.
Here are the things you need to know about becoming an auto mechanic:
The Entry Level: Certification, Training & Degree
A degree is not necessary to become an auto mechanic.
But you must at least have a GED or a high school diploma.
They are the minimum education certificates that you must have.
Besides that, certifications prove to be highly beneficial for this career path.
In the US, the ASE certificate holds the most value and is preferable by many employers.
Currently, they provide eight courses for certification.
The time to complete them varies.
Additionally, training is necessary for this field.
You can opt for online programs to gain essential knowledge.
Some employers can expect you to complete on-the-job training too.
If you fail this, they can stop your employment due to a lack of experience.
Other Skill Sets, Requirements & Qualifications
Auto mechanics have to diagnose vehicle issues daily.
That is why they must have high analytical skills.
Besides that, knowledge of various engine components is also essential.
In some jobs, auto mechanics have to communicate with customers as well.
Hence they must have good speaking skills.
They must explain the issue to the client without being too technical.
The qualifications for auto mechanic jobs vary from employer to employer.
Some prefer the prior experience of 2 years or more.
How Long Does It Take To Become An Auto Mechanic?
It will take a few years to achieve a high school diploma.
Certification can take up to a year.
Is It Hard To Become An Auto Mechanic?
Do you have a passion for fixing vehicles?
If so, it will be easy for you to become an auto mechanic.
Auto Mechanic Career Paths
Are you wondering about the effort you will have to make to become an auto mechanic?
Well, here is what you need to know about following this career path:
The Auto Mechanic Roadmap
It is relatively simple to become an auto mechanic.
First, you will have to complete your high school education.
Once you have your diploma, you can opt for the ASE certification.
After getting the necessary certificates, you can apply for entry-level jobs.
However, some employees may prefer to hire auto mechanics with some previous experience.
Hence it is preferable to work at an auto shop as an apprentice.
Projections For Growth In Auto Mechanic Jobs
The job growth projection for auto mechanics is about 1% over the next decade.
Despite that, each year, approximately 69,000 job opportunities will open up.
Additionally, career advancement is high in this field.
In Summary: Is Auto Mechanic A Good Career?
An auto mechanic is a promising career.
The salary is relatively higher, along with career advancement.
Working Conditions
Here are the typical working conditions of auto mechanics:
Can An Auto Mechanic Work Remotely From Home?
Auto mechanics cannot work remotely because of the demanding nature of the job.
Their primary task is to fix cars and conduct diagnostic tests.
For this, they need a functional shop.
Hence even when they work independently, they have to be in their own garage or shop.
And if they bring vehicles to their home, they will still have to be outdoors.
How Many Hours Does An Auto Mechanic Work?
Typically, auto mechanics work 40 to 48 hours each week.
However, overtime is not uncommon in this field.
In addition, these individuals get higher pay for the extra work.
Can An Auto Mechanic Work Part-Time?
An auto mechanic can work part-time, but this is not preferable.
In most cases, employers prefer to hire full-time workers.
Additionally, in this career, flexible hours are rare.
Independent auto mechanics have the freedom to choose their hours.
However, shops and dealers rarely offer part-time work.
What Are The Average Vacation Days Of An Auto Mechanic?
The average vacation days of auto mechanics depend on employer policies.
Typically, they range from one to three weeks.
Alternative Careers & Similar Jobs to an Auto Mechanic
- Engineering Technician
- Auto Body Repairer
- Maintenance Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Drafter
- Surveyor
- Radiologic Technologist
- Cost Estimator
- Ironworker
- Safety Engineer
- Supervisor
- Heavy Equipment Operator
Auto Mechanic Resume Tips
Do you worry about not getting the resume right?
If so, here are some tips that will improve your chances:
- Use ATS-friendly format for easy readability
- Avoid adding generic skills that are not relevant to the position
- Mention all work experience in detail, starting with the latest
- Use bullet points rather than table layout
- Always provide your latest contact information
Once you follow these tips, you will have a better chance of employment.
Be sure to proofread your document before sending it.
This is because your writing will display your communication skills.
Auto Mechanic Interview Questions
As an employer, here are the top questions you can ask an interviewee:
Q1: How do you diagnose vehicle issues without a computer system?
Why it works: An auto mechanic must know how to diagnose problems manually.
Hence this will help you learn if they have adequate knowledge.
Q2: How do you know which vehicle to fix first on a busy day?
Why it works: There will come times when your shop will be too busy.
That is why hiring a mechanic who knows how to prioritize is necessary.
So asking this will help you understand if the candidate is competent enough.
Q3: Would you help your manager if you see them misdiagnosing an issue?
Why it works: This will allow you to understand the teamwork ability of the candidate.
Q4: Describe a situation in which you have an incorrect diagnosis.
Why it works: You can see if the candidate can demonstrate accountability.
Jobs Related To Auto Mechanic
Here are some jobs that are like auto mechanic careers:
- Aircraft Mechanic
- Small Engine Mechanic
- Service Technician
- Auto Body Repairer
- And much more
For HR Manager: Tips For Hiring An Auto Mechanic
As an HR Manager, you must hire a competent candidate.
Here are some tips that will help you achieve this:
Key Characteristics To Look For In An Auto Mechanic
The following are some characteristics that must be present in an auto mechanic applicant:
- Ability to communicate issues in straightforward terms
- Understanding of engine components and computer systems
- Capable of conducting diagnostic tests
- Physically fitness needs to be up to par
Minimum Level Of Education & Experience
The least education essential for auto mechanics is a high school diploma.
Besides that, at least one year of experience is necessary.
Additionally, certifications are vital for landing the job.