Automotive Entry-Level Career Information

Automotive Technician 40-80k

An Automotive Technician is responsible for the repair and preventive maintenance of automotive equipment. Duties include performing emissions inspections, diagnostic testing of vehicles, and replacement of worn components. The Auto Mechanic can work on brakes, engines, steering, and electrical systems.

Brake Specialist 30-70k

The primary function of the Brake Technician is to perform automotive brake repair including performing diagnostic tests and determining common brake problems, repairing and replacing brakes, and performing routine brake maintenance.

Steering and Alignment Specialist 30-80k

Straightens axle and steering rods, adjusts shims, tie rods and joining pins to align wheels or install new parts. Places wheel on balancing machine to determine where counterweights must be added to balance wheel.

Transmission Specialist 83-117k

As a transmission specialist, you service and repair transmission systems. In this role, you may examine the mechanics of installed systems, provide training to new specialists, and otherwise ensure all automotive transmission systems function properly after you finish repairing them.

Engine Rebuilder Specialist 45-70k

Instruction covers diesel and gasoline engine theory and techniques of disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and troubleshooting. … Technicians use shop manuals, reference charts, diagnostic instruments, and special tools to diagnose equipment malfunctions.

Engine Performance Specialist 40-79k

Inspect, identify, and repair vehicle malfunctions following manufacturer specifications and procedures. Perform a wide array of preventative maintenance, service, diagnosis, and repair procedures related to engine performance and drivability.

Electrical and Electronics Specialist 21-82k

Auto electricians diagnose issues stemming from a vehicle’s electrical and electronics systems and perform repairs and maintenance on sensors, computer systems and other components. … Along with needing an auto electrical engineering background, auto electricians usually have experience doing basic car maintenance.

Parts Counter Specialist 30-52k

Parts counter representatives are responsible for assisting customers in finding the appropriate parts for their vehicle. … In a dealer setting, you’ll work with customers and automotive mechanics to find accessories and order parts for repairs and upgrades to commercial and consumer vehicles.

Service Writer 33-67k

Initiates automotive services and repairs by ascertaining performance problems and services requested. Verifies warranty and service contract coverage, developing estimates, writing repair orders, and maintaining customer rapport and records.

Estimator 46-75k

Collision estimators, also known as auto estimators, lead customers through the process of getting their vehicle repaired after an accident. They act as the liaison between the customer, insurance company and parts vendors to ensure the repair process goes smoothly and is completed correctly

Collision Technician 40-83k

Repairs damaged body parts and bodies of vehicles in accordance with factory and dealership specifications and time standards. Repairs vehicles per estimate and according to manufacturer standards. Checks parts against estimate and ensures proper parts are ordered and received. Prepares vehicles for body repair work.

Refinishing Technician 35-70k

Operate or tend painting machines to paint surfaces of transportation equipment, such as automobiles, buses, trucks, trains, boats, and airplanes.  Includes painters in auto body repair facilities.

Frame Technician 30-50k

• Examine damaged vehicles and estimate repair costs.
• Remove upholstery, accessories, electrical and hydraulic window-and-seat-operating equipment, and trim to gain access to vehicle body and fenders.
• Sheet metal panel repair
• Remove damaged fenders, panels
• Bolt or weld replacement parts in position.
• Straighten bent automobile frames.
• File, grind and sand repaired surfaces.