Chapter 1 Careers in the Automotive Industry

Need For Technicians The U.S. Dept. of Labor predicts faster than average growth in technician job rates.U.S. Dept. of Labor For 2007, the average technician earnings was $16.24 per hour. Courses such as electronics, physics, chemistry, English, computers, and math provide a good background for technicians.

Ongoing Service Computerization and improved manufacturing has reduced the amount of services and maintenance needed. Preventive maintenance, problem diagnosis, and repairs are still necessary for proper vehicle operation.

Typical Maintenance Schedule

Career Opportunities Dealerships –Serve as a link between the manufacturer and the customer. Independent Service Shops –May service all types of cars or specialize in a particular brand or vehicle system. Franchise Repair Shop –Is usually run by large companies such as tire manufacturers.

Career Opportunities (cont’d) Store-Associated Shops –Are usually associated with large department stores. Fleet Service and Maintenance –May be a large business or municipality.

Job Classifications Service Technician –Assesses, diagnoses and repairs vehicle problems. Shop Foreman –Helps technicians with more difficult tasks. Service Advisor –Greets customers and records their concerns on the repair order.

Related Career Opportunities Aftermarket parts distribution Marketing and sales Recyclers Insurance claims adjuster Auto body technician Training and teaching

ASE Areas of Automotive Certification Engine repair Automatic transmission/transaxle Manual transmissions and drive axles Suspension and steering Brakes Electrical systems Heating and air conditioning Engine performance

Types of ASE Certification One or more areasAll eight areas of automobile certification