Motor Vehicle Industry Career Profile

(Vehicle Body Repairer, Auto-electrician, Motor Mechanic/ Vehicle Technician)

The Work

Motor Vehicle Technicians carry out repairs and maintain vehicles either for members of the public or for organisations. They may also work on light vehicles, heavy vehicles or motorcycles.

Light vehicles

A light-vehicle technician working with cars and vans will work with the owner of the vehicle to find and fix faults, perform MOTs and may fit car alarms, immobilisers, stereos and other in-car devices.

Heavy vehicles

Technicians work on trucks, buses and coaches, earth-moving equipment, tractors and agricultural machinery. Many of the tasks are the same as those carried out on light vehicles however, as heavy vehicle components are expensive, tasks mainly comprise of maintenance and trying to repair rather than replace parts.

Motorcycles
Motorcycle technicians examine, repair and maintain motorbikes. They use many of the same tools and procedures as light vehicle technicians. They also customise bikes to owners' specifications.

Work environment
Working 40 hours a week is common often with overtime. There may be shift work, including weekends, and some garages operate an ‘on-call’ system. Some heavy vehicle garages only service vehicles at night.

Newer service centres are relatively clean and spacious, whereas conditions in older garages can be cramped and dirty. Although, lifting equipment and hoists are used, the work is still physically demanding.

When dealing with breakdowns, technicians may have to travel long distances and be expected to work in all weather conditions.

Skills & Interest

To be a successful motor vehicle technician, you should:

• have an excellent knowledge of motor vehicle technology

• have a skill for practical work

• have good analytical skills to diagnose faults

• be able to work quickly

• be able to pay attention to detail

• be able to work without supervision

• to be aware of safety regulations and procedures at all times

• have good communication skills

• be able to follow written instructions

• be physically fit, with normal colour vision

• keep up-to-date with developments, especially new engine types and electronics

• be aware of health and safety regulations

Entry requirements
While no set qualifications are required, employers still look for a good standard of education. Employers look for a good standard of education; such as four GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) including Maths, English and a science subject, or equivalent.

Training

Training is usually on the job, normally leading to an Automotive NVQ/SVQ level 1 to 3, which has several optional pathways, depending on your job.

Pay & Conditions (Figures are for guideline use only)

£13,000 - £16,000 - New technicians (depending on age and the stage of training)
£21,000+ - Experienced technicians

Opportunities & Prospects

Motor vehicle technicians work for small independent garages, fast-fit outlets, car dealerships, and haulage companies. Opportunities also exist with other organisations such as local authorities, the police, vehicle breakdown organisations, large private firms and taxi companies.

There is a demand for highly trained technicians all over the UK. Due to the ever-changing technology in the car industry, many workers undergo further training. There may also be the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of mechanics, such as tyres, clutches and brakes, or specific make of vehicle.

Promotion is normally to senior technician and then workshop supervisor. Management positions may also be a possibility. Some technicians become self-employed.

Motor Vehicle Event 2007

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