The role of automotive technicians has changed significantly over the last decade due to rapid advancements in automotive technology. Nowadays, cars are now less about improving tyre-pressure and more about balancing a finely tuned computer system. This shift is reflected in the roles available, with it now being more common for automotive dealerships and organisations to employ technicians that have specific diagnostic and technical experience alongside mechanical abilities.

The role of automotive technicians

Automotive technicians undertake complex work on vehicles, servicing and fine tuning the engine and making repairs. Many cars are now state-of-the-art pieces of machinery that require specialist skills to keep them running. They involve complex systems that bring together mechanical systems with software and precision cast parts, requiring specific knowledge to operate efficiently. This means many automotive technicians spend less time under the hood and more time using computers and high tech diagnostic and testing equipment.

As the level of skill required to service vehicles has increased, so have the challenges. Automotive technicians need to pay attention to detail, while being able understand how everything fits into the big picture. Automotive technicians are also problem solvers who use a wide range of tools to work across multiple networks. They typically need to possess excellent problem solving skills, so as to identify and diagnose issues. However, with constantly evolving technology, continuous learning is essential.

Career growth and progression

With increasing advancements within the automotive industry, the career path for automotive technicians provides a wealth of opportunity for growth and progression. There are different levels within the role, which could see an employee starting with maintenance work and then progressing to servicing the systems that run vehicles in their entirety. There are also opportunities to progress to management and leadership roles, or into other parts of the business, like customer service.

Automotive technicians can also have lucrative careers, earning up to $90,000 a year. While those who progress to management positions may have the opportunity to earn even more.

Skills beyond the spanner

Even if an employee chooses not to take on a customer-focused role, they will still most likely have the opportunity to develop soft skills alongside their technical abilities. Communication and interpersonal competencies are examples of soft skills that automotive technicians will likely require in order to work with customers. These allow employees to explain problems to clients and make sure that vehicle owners know their prized possessions are in safe hands.

In this way, the role of an automotive technician doesn’t just advance technical proficiencies, but also soft skills which will make someone more employable in the future.

A varied career

Along with a varied skill set, automotive technicians have a wide variety of opportunities and pathways, as jobs exist where ever there are cars. From auction houses to dealerships and fleet management, there are a wide variety of workplaces that require automotive technicians in their employ.

Qualifying to be an automotive technician often requires people to complete a Certificate III in Automotive Studies, while an interest in mechanics and cars is advantageous. Possess these and you could be the perfect candidate for a career that focuses on one of your passions and offers a wealth of pathways and skill development.

If you’d like to find out more about how you can take advantage of these opportunities, get in touch with us.