How to Work for an Automotive Car Service
If you like working on and fixing cars, you may want to consider a job as an automotive repair technician. Auto mechanics enjoy a relatively high level of job security. People will always need their vehicles repaired, and repair service is a highly-skilled profession. To get a job as repair technician, you will need training, education and experience.
- Prepare for a career in car repair as early as possible, preferably in high school where you can take advantage of vocational programs offered there.
- Practice your skills whenever possible, including at home. Purchase an inexpensive vehicle to serve as your test vehicle, and learn how to perform repairs on it. Instead of taking your driving car to a professional, learn about it and perform the repairs yourself.
- Enroll in the automotive technician program at your local community college. No matter what your age, you can attend classes and become trained in the skills needed. Most college programs offer hands-on experiences, and having a degree in automotive technology will help you to land a job.
- Seek out apprenticeships and internships. Most of these will be unpaid, or have very low pay, but are a great way to do the everyday work involved in being a technician. It also helps to get your feet in the door of an actual automotive repair shop.
- Take a few certification tests. Review what the requirements are of each test and sign up to take them. You will have to pay a sizable fee, but the ability to say you are certified goes a long way when searching for a job.
- Apply to several different places where you would like to work. Get your resume out to as many places as you can. Make a point to walk in to places to apply, and ask to talk to the hiring manager directly. When preparing your resume, showcase your abilities and any certifications you have. Include any experience you have, even if it is not professional experience.