Automotive Service Mechanic

In most parts of the United States, owning a vehicle is a necessity. People rely on cars to get to work, the grocery store, and other essential places, as well as travel to restaurants, friends’ homes, and other destinations for leisure. It can be a major inconvenience when vehicles break down and have to be repaired. This means that auto mechanics trained in the latest car and truck repair techniques and technologies are in high demand.

At Pennco Tech, we offer several auto programs that give students the skills they need to a journey toward careers as automotive service mechanics. Students will find these courses offered at either our Blackwood, NJ, campus or our Bristol, PA, campus. Learn more about how our auto programs, coupled with our student career services, can translate into an abundance of mechanic opportunities.

What Does an Auto Mechanic Do?

Automotive service mechanics have a variety of on-the-job responsibilities as they review, maintain, and repair light trucks and cars. Auto mechanics mainly interact with the public and individuals, though they may also work with automobile parts and product representatives. On any day, an automobile mechanic — or automobile technician as they are also called — can find themselves completing the following tasks:

• Identify and diagnose vehicle issues, often with the assistance of computerized diagnostic equipment and other automotive technology equipment
• Plan and execute mechanical repairs and modifications to anti-lock brake systems, heating and air conditioning systems, engine compressors, fuel and hydraulic pumps, transmissions, and related parts
• Install or repair auto parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, and various sensors
• Perform routine inspections and maintenance procedures, such as engine oil changes, filling tires with air to optimal pressure, and rotating tires
• Ensure clients understand the automotive problems, proposed solutions, and pricing

People trained as auto service mechanics should be skilled with diagnostic machinery, as well as welding machines, vehicle lifts, and small hand tools. Pennco Tech understands that auto technology continues to change at a rapid pace. We provide hands-on training to students in advanced technology that includes:

• Specialized diagnostic equipment
• Laser alignment equipment
• Electrical systems
• Hybrid vehicle training

While most auto mechanics in the U.S. are employed at auto dealer repair shops, others work in small auto garages or are self-employed mechanics. The median annual salary for automotive service mechanics s is around $45,780 in PA and $53,230 in NJ. An auto repair mechanic who owns his or her own business may have the opportunity to earn more.

Various Job Options for Auto Mechanics

Pursuing auto mechanic training can open the door to a variety of other rewarding professions in the vehicle repair industry. Those enrolled in the Pennco Tech classes may eventually become specialists in particular auto systems, such as:

Vehicle Air Conditioning Technicians 

Auto air conditioning technicians install and repair air-conditioning systems and parts. This field requires additional training and certification to handle refrigerant chemicals and containers.

Brake Technicians 

These mechanics work exclusively on brake system issues and typically diagnose and repair or replace brake rotors and pads, along with other brake components.

Diagnostic Mechanic

These technicians are experts in fuel, ignition, electrical, and emissions systems and their respective diagnostic tools. Their diagnoses enable auto mechanics to find solutions for engine malfunctions and repair them.

Automobile Parts Representative

Those who have experience as auto service mechanics may consider transitioning into the auto parts sales field as they have extensive knowledge of specific brand quality and durability.

Customer Service Technician

Many repair garages within dealerships have to manage many clients and vehicles per day. They do this by having a customer service technician greet clients and answer questions about repair services, as well as other technical mechanical inquiries.

Vehicle Repair Shop Manager

After an auto mechanic has accumulated considerable knowledge about vehicle repairs and parts replacement, they may be qualified to be a vehicle repair shop manager. This manager oversees all repairs and ensures appointment schedules run smoothly, among other responsibilities.

At Pennco Tech, we provide trade career training to students enrolled in our various automotive or diesel programs, allowing them to obtain hands-on experience and become skilled auto mechanics. This competency can make them more capable to pivot into other areas of the auto industry. Girl Power at Pennco Tech helps ensure that women also enjoy these vocational career opportunities.

Find Out What It Takes to Be an Automobile Mechanic

People in the Blackwood, NJ, or Bristol, PA, area who want to become auto mechanics can enroll in Pennco Tech’s auto programs. These courses prepare graduates with the latest training in vehicle technology and include:

• Automotive technology program
• Collision repair program
• Diesel technology program

For more information about our auto mechanic program or other trade career training we offer, contact us today.