Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Lancaster
The automotive industry in Lancaster demands that employees have post-secondary training and certification or a degree. Although it’s possible to find entry level positions with only a high school diploma, the majority of employers prefer candidates who possess more specialized knowledge gained from formal education.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Lancaster
In Lancaster, auto mechanics do not need to have a professional license. However, employers look for candidates who have completed an automotive technology program at a community college or technical school.
An auto mechanic program will typically cover topics such as:
- Diesel Technology
- Steering systems
- Fuel systems
- Air conditioning
- Brake systems
- Ignition and electrical systems
- Computerized diagnostics
- Basic Automotive Maintenance
- Manual drive train
Auto Mechanic Schools in Lancaster
If you’re looking to pursue an automotive career in Lancaster, there are numerous technical colleges and trade schools available for your consideration. Make sure to check out the following post secondary education options before deciding on a training program:
- Lancaster County Career and Technology Center. Offers an Automotive Technology Specialized Associate Degree Program (AST). Specialized Associate Degrees are accredited, as well as state recognized and approved. In addition, this institution provides a comprehensive emissions inspection certification course and an intensive vehicle safety inspection certification program.
- Automotive Training Center (Lancaster). Offers a 2 year associate degree program, as well as individual courses in automotive technology and repair. Students can receive hands-on training with the latest tools and equipment used in this field.
ASE Certification
If you’re looking to showcase your acumen in auto repair and gain recognition for it, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is the best way to go! To become certified, applicants must pass an ASE exam. Moreover, after every five years of retaining this status one can either take another test or apply for recertification through exclusive programs.
If you’re looking to obtain an ASE certification, there are many tests from which you can choose. There are over 40 ASE Certification exams, some of which include:
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- School bus certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Nashville is expected to grow by 1% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Nashville earned an average annual wage of $47,530 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $48,340. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $38,280 and $46,760 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Lancaster
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lancaster, PA | 1,540 | $22,32 | $46,530 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Lancaster
Working as an auto mechanic in Lancaster can be a lucrative career choice. With the right training and education, you can make a great living performing repairs and maintenance on automobiles. Having ASE certification will also help bolster your resume and may even lead to higher-paying positions with larger employers.
Sources:
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm