Requirements for an Automotive Service Technician

The demand for automotive service technicians in the United States should increase by 5 percent from 2008 through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Spurred by an increasing number of drivers owning automobiles, this growth should result in the creation of more than 35,000 jobs for individuals who meet the necessary employment requirements.

Education

Education and training requirements for automotive service technicians vary among employer, but most prefer applicants who have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Approximately 8 percent of all mechanics have only a diploma as their highest level of education, according to the Occupational Information Network. These mechanics receive on-the-job training or may have participated in secondary school auto service technology programs at a vocational high school. The majority of technicians, roughly 88 percent, have some post-secondary education, but no degree, such as a diploma or certificate from a technical or community college. Another 4 percent of mechanics have a two-year associate degree.

License

Some states require all mechanics to gain a license or state-issued certification to work in the field, establishing their own criteria for credentialing. For example, mechanics in Michigan must pass a written examination for each type of mechanic work they wish to perform in the state. Automotive service technicians in other states must gain licenses to perform only certain types of jobs. In Pennsylvania, for instance, mechanics must attend a training class to gain certification to perform state emission inspections.

Certification

Most employers prefer to hire automotive service technicians who have professional certifications through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. The ASE offers its certification for voluntary participation. The highest certification level offered through the institute is the master mechanic designation. To qualify for this credential, mechanics must complete a series of eight certification exams. Topics of the exams include engine repair, automatic transmissions, manual drive trains, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical and systems, heating and air conditioning and engine performance.

Skills

For success in the field, automotive service technicians must possess specific skills and abilities. To perform their work, mechanics must know how to use tools like hammers, light emitting displays, pullers, punches, jacks and wrenches. When servicing a car, mechanics need problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to uncover the cause of the trouble and find a resolution. Automotive service technicians must also use computers to run diagnostic tests, as well as to enter information into databases about work performed to bill customers and receive payment.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Automotive Service Technicians
• Occupational Information Network: Summary Report for 49-3023.01 - Automotive Master Mechanics
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Frequently Asked Questions - Vehicle Emissions Inspections - Station Owners/Mechanics
• Michigan Department of State: Information for Mechanics
• National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence: Certification