Being an automotive mechanic is a demanding but engaging and rewarding job. It’s not a good fit for everyone, but if you like to see how things work, like working with your hands, and enjoy challenges that stimulate your critical thinking, this could be the job for you.
What exactly do you “need” to be a mechanic? And is this role a good fit for you?
What Is a Mechanic?
If you’re interested in applying for a job as a mechanic, you should understand what the role entails. Mechanics can service a wide variety of different machines. Still, in common parlance, when people use the general term “mechanic,” they’re usually referring to an automotive mechanic that works on cars and trucks. You can start your own business as a mechanic, work for a company in the automotive industry, or work as an independent contractor.
No matter what, they’ll be responsible for making repairs and practicing routine maintenance on various vehicles. You may be responsible for routine tasks like conducting oil changes or swapping out brake pads. You may also be responsible for diagnosing problems and applying more technical fixes, like changing the transmission on a vehicle or even rebuilding an engine.
Education and Certification Requirements
What education, certification, and experience requirements do mechanics need?
The good news is that no advanced, formal education requirement applies to mechanic jobs across the board. It may be possible to find some openings for mechanics that have no education or certification requirements whatsoever.
However, in most cases, employers will prefer at least some of the following:
· High school diploma/GED. Many mechanics are required to have at least a high school education, so before you apply, it’s a good idea to earn your high school diploma or the functional equivalent (like a GED).
· Trade school education. If you have a trade school education, you will be a much more attractive candidate than someone without that education. However, you can quickly become a mechanic without a trade school education.
· ASE certification. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certifications in many different areas. Holding ASE certification instantly makes you a more attractive candidate, but it’s also not a deal breaker if you don’t have this certification.
· Real experience. Experience is precious for mechanics since this is such a hands-on, technically skilled job. If you don’t have much education or familiarity with being a mechanic, you may find an entry-level job where you can get some experience while learning from some of the best people in the trade.
Demands of the Job
What about the demands of the job? What kind of person makes for a good mechanic?
· Mechanical knowledge. Mechanics should have in-depth mechanical knowledge. If you’re servicing vehicles, you should have a solid understanding of how vehicles and motors work, you should be able to practice routine maintenance without supervision, and you should be able to diagnose and fix the most common automotive problems. You can get this knowledge through direct education, experience, or a mix of both.
· Problem-solving and critical thinking. It’s not always easy to tell exactly what’s wrong with a vehicle. To succeed as a mechanic, you need to have problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that help you analyze and fix problems.
· Hands-on work. Mechanics work with their hands. They often get dirty and are responsible for tackling tough jobs that require a skill. You’ll need to be prepared for this if you want to be a productive and happy mechanic.
· Physical strength and stamina. You don’t need to be a powerlifter or an Olympic-level athlete to be an automotive mechanic, but you should have at least some physical strength and stamina. You might be responsible for moving heavy parts across the business throughout a given day, removing a stuck lug nut, and standing on your feet for hours. If you can’t keep up with the job’s physical demands, this may not be the right career path for you.
· Long hours (sometimes). Though most mechanics work on a regular schedule, a surge in demand or emergency conditions could force you to work long hours. The good news is that you’ll likely be paid extra for your work.
· Customer service. Don’t forget about customer service skills. As a mechanic, you’ll often need to directly explain your work (and recommendations) to customers.
Whether you attend a trade school or learn by doing, education and experience as a mechanic can instantly set you up for success. And thanks to the current labor shortage, even inexperienced mechanics should have no trouble finding work.
