Auto Technician Responsibilities

The automotive industry is growing day by day and so it is advancing in its technology. With the growing technological aspects, there are huge opportunities for the individuals who are interested and skilled in this particular area. Thus, those aspiring to enter this field should make sure that they are well-acquainted with the auto technician responsibilities, so as to ensure that they take a right career decision.

Key Responsibilities of an Auto Technician

Auto technician generally works under the supervision of the lead or senior technician and performs the assigned tasks under their direction. His general responsibilities include the repair and maintenance of the automobiles like trucks, cars, vans, etc., and automotive equipments, and identifies and resolves the defects associated with it. Further, he ensures that the vehicle is working in proper condition. Let us understand in detail the key responsibilities that need to be handled by an auto technician:

1. He should be able to identify the defects in the automotive equipment or automobiles and convey it to the customer
2. After identifying the technical problems, he should be able to give a rough estimate of the cost of the repair work
3. He inspects, troubleshoots, and repairs various components like wiper motors, light bulbs, switches, etc.
4. He replaces the defective parts and items
5. He makes use of the computer to study the previous records related to the working conditions of vehicles and equipments
6. He is responsible for maintaining, updating, and completing all the relevant work papers

He needs to perform some other related duties like taking the permission of the customer to repair or replace some extra parts or components, especially if the servicing costs are going to increase, to ensure that the vehicle or automotive equipment is functioning properly after going through the repairing and replacement procedures. He performs the basic functions like oiling, greasing, washing, cleaning, tuning up, applying linings to the brakes, and performing tire rotations. He assembles and disassembles different automotive components as per the requirement. He ensures that all defects are sorted out by using various testing equipments.

An auto technician can specialize in different areas like brakes' tech who handles all the repairs related to brake work. Those dealing in the alignment of wheels, providing suspension systems are front end technicians.

Essential Skills

The automotive industry is definitely evolving. If you want to make a mark in this industry, you need to have at least some of the following essential skills:

1. Should be customer oriented with strong communication skills. He should have good listening skills
2. Should have a keen eye for detail to be able to detect and identify the faults
3. Should be able to provide resolutions to the malfunctioning of various mechanical and automotive parts
4. Should have a good manual dexterity
5. Should have an in depth knowledge of the automobile industry and should keep himself updated with the latest developments taking place in the relevant field

Educational Requirements

To be eligible for the post of an auto technician, you should have completed a post secondary training or a vocational course related to automotive service technology. Some relevant high school course in electronics, automobile repairing, computers, etc., would also be sufficient. Some may even get on the job training. To get a higher salary package, an additional certification from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence would prove to be beneficial.

Work Schedule

Most of the available jobs require the auto technician to work in an eight hour shift. Depending on the requirements, he may need to work extra in the evenings or on the weekends. Many auto technicians, thus need to work overtime to complete the given work.

Salary Details

If a person has a relevant academic qualifications combined with a demonstrated work experience, he can be assured to get a salary in the range of $30,000 to $42,000.

Career Prospects

There is going to be an increasing demand for auto technicians and it is steadily expected to grow at a rate of 15 to 17 percent. Those with advanced training and experience will definitely get better salary packages and added benefits.

So before you take a leap in this industry, make sure you are backed by a relevant educational background, skills, and have an in depth knowledge of auto technician responsibilities.