Occupation · SOC 49-3023
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.
Median wage
$49,670
$33,660–$80,850
Projected growth
+4.2%
Average growth
Annual openings
3,360
per year
Employed (US)
688,840
Job Zone 3
Typical preparation
Medium preparation
Stackable credential programs
1,245 mapped
Core skills
RepairingTroubleshootingCritical ThinkingOperations MonitoringEquipment MaintenanceOperation and ControlJudgment and Decision MakingActive Listening
Knowledge areas
MechanicalCustomer and Personal ServiceComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and Technology
Technology & tools
Facilities management softwareInternet browser softwareData base user interface and query softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareComputer aided manufacturing CAM software
Representative tasks
Inspect vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made.Test drive vehicles and test components and systems, using equipment such as infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges, and computerized diagnostic devices.Test and adjust repaired systems to meet manufacturers' performance specifications.Repair, reline, replace, and adjust brakes.Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors.Estimate costs of vehicle repair.Confer with customers to obtain descriptions of vehicle problems and to discuss work to be performed and future repair requirements.Align vehicles' front ends.Align wheels, axles, frames, torsion bars, and steering mechanisms of automobiles, using special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines.Tear down, repair, and rebuild faulty assemblies, such as power systems, steering systems, and linkages.Perform routine and scheduled maintenance services, such as oil changes, lubrications, and tune-ups.Follow checklists to ensure all important parts are examined, including belts, hoses, steering systems, spark plugs, brake and fuel systems, wheel bearings, and other potentially troublesome areas.Plan work procedures, using charts, technical manuals, and experience.Maintain cleanliness of work area.Change spark plugs, fuel filters, air filters, and batteries in hybrid electric vehicles.Repair and service air conditioning, heating, engine cooling, and electrical systems.Disassemble units and inspect parts for wear, using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.Test electronic computer components in automobiles to ensure proper operation.Overhaul or replace carburetors, blowers, generators, distributors, starters, and pumps.Repair or replace parts such as pistons, rods, gears, valves, and bearings.Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.Troubleshoot fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems, using electronic testing equipment.Tune automobile engines to ensure proper and efficient functioning.Repair, replace, or adjust defective fuel injectors, carburetor parts, and gasoline filters.Install, adjust, or repair hydraulic or electromagnetic automatic lift mechanisms used to raise and lower automobile windows, seats, and tops.Conduct visual inspections of compressed natural gas fuel systems to identify cracks, gouges, abrasions, discoloration, broken fibers, loose brackets, damaged gaskets, or other problems.Rebuild parts, such as crankshafts and cylinder blocks.Diagnose and replace or repair engine management systems or related sensors for flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) with ignition timing, fuel rate, alcohol concentration, or air-to-fuel ratio malfunctions.Repair or rebuild transmissions.Retrofit vehicle fuel systems with aftermarket products, such as vapor transfer devices, evaporation control devices, swirlers, lean burn devices, and friction reduction devices, to enhance combustion and fuel efficiency.
Competency framework
Skill expectations by proficiency level.
emerging
Lube, oil, and filter services — perform to manufacturer spec under a senior tech's review.Tire rotation, balance, and pressure — execute correctly on standard passenger vehicles.Multi-point inspection checklists — complete reliably on incoming vehicles.Service writeups in the shop management system — enter accurately under supervision.Hand and power tools — select and use safely on routine maintenance.Brake pad and rotor replacements — perform on common vehicles with senior verification.Battery, wiper, and lamp replacements — complete to spec on quick-service tickets.Lift safety and vehicle support — apply consistently across the shop.Manufacturer service intervals — locate and follow in service information systems.Shop housekeeping and waste handling — maintain to environmental standards.
developing
Routine repairs (brakes, suspension, exhaust) — perform independently across common vehicles.Customer concerns from the writeup — translate into accurate diagnostic plans.Common drivability complaints — diagnose with scan tool and basic test equipment.Wheel alignments — perform and document on a range of vehicle types.Belts, hoses, fluids, and seals — service correctly across mileage-based intervals.Electrical complaints (lighting, accessories) — diagnose and repair with reduced oversight.Service writeups for additional needs — communicate clearly with service advisors.Warranty repairs — complete to manufacturer documentation requirements.Quick-service workflow — sustain throughput on a routine day.Apprentice technicians — guide on common procedures and tool use.
proficient
Complex drivability and electrical faults — diagnose autonomously across vehicle makes.OEM service information and TSBs — apply correctly to non-obvious problems.Engine, transmission, and major component R&R — execute on common platforms.Network and module-related issues (CAN, programming) — diagnose and repair on supported platforms.Heavy-line and internal repairs — plan and complete to manufacturer spec.Customer-pay diagnostics — frame, scope, and communicate clearly through the advisor.Comebacks and chronic concerns — investigate and resolve with structured root-cause work.Newer technicians on diagnostic technique — mentor across the shop.Specialty equipment (alignment, A/C, scan tools) — operate and interpret with full confidence.Estimates and labor times — produce credibly for non-routine work.
advanced
Master-level diagnostics across makes and systems — own as the shop's escalation point.Shop-floor productivity and quality — shape as lead technician or shop foreman.Technician development and certifications — mentor and progress across the team.Manufacturer training and program updates — absorb and disseminate across the shop.Tooling, equipment, and shop layout — plan and recommend with management.Safety, environmental, and compliance programs — own across the operation.High-stakes customer concerns — handle with the advisor and management to resolution.New-model technologies (EV, ADAS, hybrid) — establish capability and standards in the shop.Warranty audits and OEM relationships — manage credibly on behalf of the shop.Service-bay throughput and labor utilization — analyze and improve with management.
Also known as
250 alternate job titles map to this occupation.
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