Becoming an Automotive Service Technician or Mechanic in Vermont
Looking to start a career as an automotive technician or mechanic? There are plenty of opportunities in Vermont, including positions for automotive body repairers, auto glass installers and repairers, and heavy vehicle mechanics such as bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Vermont
Vermont does not have any specific auto mechanic licensing requirements. However, most employers prefer to hire mechanics with formal automotive training. Many of the top employers in Vermont prefer to hire experienced technicians with certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
An auto mechanic training program may cover the following topics:
- Auto repair
- Auto maintenance
- Collision repair
- Damage analysis
- Electronics and electrical systems
- Suspension, brakes, and alignment
- Heating and air conditioning repair
In addition to technical skills, employers may also prefer mechanics who are good communicators, have strong customer service skills, work well in teams, and can stay organized.
Auto Mechanic Schools in Vermont
If you’re looking to get into the automotive industry in Vermont, look no further than Vermont Technical College. As the only college in Vermont that offers a post-secondary automotive program accredited by National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF). With two programs offered – one focused on general automotive technology and another specifically diesel power technology – students of any interest level can find what works best for them.
ASE Certification
After completing two years of related work or earning a certificate or associate degree in automotive technology, along with one year of on-the-job experience, an automotive technician is eligible for an ASE certification. This allows mechanics to progress in their careers by demonstrating to employers and customers that they are properly qualified and trained to do their job well.
There are over 40 ASE exams available, some of which include:
- Light repair certification test
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
The job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, auto mechanics in Vermont earn an annual mean wage of $46,650 per year while auto glass workers earned $37,530 per year, $47,260 for auto body mechanics and related repairers and $47,400 for diesel mechanics. It is important to remember that more skills, training and certifications equal more pay.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Vermont by Region
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington-South Burlington, VT | 610 | $22,89 | $47,600 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Vermont
Working as a mechanic in Vermont can be a rewarding and stable career. Although there is no licensing requirement for mechanics, the knowledge and experience gained from formal training and certification can provide many benefits. With an ever-expanding automotive industry in Vermont, there are plenty of opportunities to become a successful auto technician or mechanic.
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