Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Austin
Are you looking to embark on a career in the automotive industry? A job as an auto mechanic is perfect for you! This profession requires both technical skills and familiarity with various vehicle types, engines and components. Additionally, Austin has plenty of openings available right now – so getting started won’t be difficult at all.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Austin
You do not need a license to work as an auto mechanic in Austin, but you do need specialized training. You can get this training from a technical school, community college, or other accredited institution.
The following topics may be covered in an automotive program.
- Ignition systems
- Air conditioning
- Steering systems
- Suspension systems
- Electrical systems
- Outdoor powered equipment
- Automotive electronics
Auto Mechanic Schools in Austin
There are various options to choose from when looking for an automotive service technician program in Austin. Here are some of the top schools in the area:
- Universal Technical Institute. If you’re interested in the automotive industry, then this school is perfect for you! Specialized courses give students access to programs from BMW’s Fast Track program and Ford’s Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) as well as Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Toyota Volvo, NASCAR and more. Students with a passion for diesel technology can also take advantage of specially tailored programs designed specifically for them.
- Texas State Technical College. Provides the highest standard of training in the field of automotive technology, offering hands-on learning and ASE certified programs. State-of-the-art facilities paired with instruction from industry experts guarantee that students have access to a world class education experience. TSTC also offers specialization courses with Tesla, Toyota, and Chrysler.
Financial aid may be available to those who qualify; contact the financial office at the institution you are interested in attending for more information.
ASE Certification
Earning certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a highly prestigious achievement that sets automotive professionals apart from their peers. ASE credentials illustrate an individual’s aptitude and proficiency in vehicle systems, granting them an advantage when trying to gain employment or progress up the ladder of their career. To acquire this designation necessitates passing several exams which assess different aspects within the domain of auto mechanics.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Austin is expected to grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Austin earned an average annual wage of $48,410 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $48,100. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $37,920 and $47,260 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Austin
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | 3,720 | $26,03 | $48,410 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Austin
Working as an auto mechanic in Austin can be a rewarding and lucrative career, allowing you to apply your acquired skill set to help others with their vehicle needs. Being able to diagnose automotive problems and provide solutions to fix them is extremely satisfying. With plenty of openings available and a flourishing automotive industry, now is the perfect time to pursue this career.
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