Cars Blog April Archive

In a fast pace society the need for transportation and owning your own form of transportation is paramount. Being able to transport yourself to and from work, jet the kids over to soccer practices or ballet in a timely and reliable fashion is important to today's family.

Also, many families depend on income from both the father and mother and this means most families own at least two vehicles. When you take of these facts into account, the need for automotive mechanic jobs doesn't seem to be declining whatsoever.

Quite the contrary, it's increasing. Many car dealerships, privately-owned garages, as well as government agencies employ and maintain a few if not several automotive mechanics at their facilities. Why? Because the demand for a mechanic remains high.

The job of the automobile mechanic has changed since the days of Henry Ford and even the days of the full-service gas station. Now most automotive mechanics are referred to as Automotive technicians simply because their jobs are so reliant on technology that they have to specialize in order to even be able to work on vehicles.

They are required to possess specialized knowledge such as working with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical reference materials. They even have to be able to inspect, maintain, and repair automobiles and light trucks that run on gasoline, ethanol and other alternate fuel sources such like electricity.

Most automobiles today are equipped with computers as well as the standard nuts and bolts. When these computers experience a problem the technician has got to be able to pinpoint the problem and diagnose before ever working on the vehicle. Many automobile technicians work more than a 40 hour week.

Some even have to entertain such hours as nights and weekends depending on the operating hours of their employer. Most technicians work indoors in well-ventilated facilities. Although this is an improvement from the older days of being a mechanic, today's technicians are still required to lift and maneuver heavy parts and equipment in order to maintain and repair vehicles.

Having the job as an automotive technician is mostly safe. If you exclude the minor knick and scrape you may receive when crawling in and out of tight places while working on vehicles. Although it's safer than ever, the job is like any other as it is not without risk.

If you're interested in becoming an automotive technician, you may want to research the Internet for schools and training and receive the high-tech certificate or diploma you need.

Automotive Job Descriptions

In an industry where competition keeps you on your toes and the production and sales are the bottom line, you might be surprised to know that the jobs available are so diverse you might not even realize such a job exists in the automotive industry.

Which job is for you? That's a tough one. Before choosing which job you're best suited for, it's a good idea to access your skills, prior work experience, and current career goals.

After you've finished assessing what you would like from a job, then research different jobs available in the automotive industry and which job you would be most comfortable in. What jobs are available usually depend on the company and what types of services they perform.

However, here is a brief overview of jobs common to the automotive industry and the responsibilities. Some automotive companies employ someone called a Cost Engineer.

A cost engineer is someone who the company has deemed intelligent and keen. The cost engineer establishes component part costs for new products and current model projects. They also develop bottom-up costs that support project targets.

There is also a job title called Product Development Manager. A Product development manager is in charge of manufacturing and developing technically advanced products and overseas a production team. If these jobs aren't for you, don't despair.

You might be better suited for something such as a vehicle performance analyst. A vehicle performance analyst performs and analyzes research such as engine systems and performance stimulation of mechanical and hydraulic systems.

Not into crunching numbers and studying data all day long? That's quite all right because there are several more careers to pursue in the automotive industry. How about becoming a mechanical engineer? If you're interested in complex machine design/drafting assignments, and maintenance just to name a few, then becoming a mechanical engineer might be for you.

Don't discount the need for Service Technicians. Today's service technicians aren't like the mechanics of yesteryear. They are on the cutting edge of technology and most are required to obtain specialized certification or diplomas.

If all of these jobs still doesn't fit your persona of the perfect job, there are still several more career opportunities available for you.

Maybe you're the type to work more behind the scenes. Try working as an administrative assistant in the automotive industry. Whatever your career choice, chances are the automotive industry has something for you.

Automotive Job Search

Are you seeking employment in the automotive industry? Congratulations! You're on your way to an exciting and competitive new career!

Many people would love to find employment in certain fields but have no clue where to begin or where to search. Is this you? Don't worry, you're certainly not alone. Before you do anything in your job search, it is best to be prepared. How can you be prepared? Gather any certificates, copies of valid driver's licenses and any other pertinent information.

Also, it is a good idea to have a current resume prepared to take with you when you apply for your job. It shows the company you are a planner and have a genuine interest in working for them, if you've gone through the effort of preparing ahead of time.

If you have difficulty with resumes, many programs such as Microsoft Office have resume templates. All you have to do is replace the template information with your own personal information and print.

When searching for a new career, the best thing is to research. Do you live in a town or county where these jobs are available? The first place to search is in a local newspaper or classifieds flyer. Lots of employers and companies advertise when they need help in the classifieds section of the paper.

They usually will list a job a brief job description, a phone number or address for you to contact them. Some employers will go so far as to advertise the salary of the job and the benefits offered such as major medical, dental, vision, or 401K retirement plans.

If your search is limited in the classifieds section you might want to try the Internet. The Internet has a vast number of websites where employers seek employees such as Hotjobs.com and other reputable companies. You simply upload your resume onto their job database and potential employers seek you out and contact you when a job that matches your skills becomes available.

They may ask you for an interview or having reviewed your application and resume prior to contacting you, they may offer you employment. Most places will ask if you're willing or not to relocate, if yes, mark it on your application because it could mean the difference in a company contacting you or not. Lastly, most states have a department of workforce or employment.

You can usually find these offices in a telephone directory or yellow pages. They can talk you through their process of helping you match a company with your skills. Are you ready to get started? Good! Enjoy your exciting new career!

Automotive Dealership Jobs

Need a rewarding job? Chances are you can find one at your local automotive dealership. Did you realize that it takes all kinds of jobs to run an automotive dealership? That's right, there are a lot more people employed at automotive dealerships than just the salesperson that shows the costumer a vehicle in hopes of making a sale.

If you're never thought about it before, there's never been a better time to consider a job in the automotive industry. With a variety of jobs available, an automotive dealership job just might be for you. Automotive Dealerships offer employment in job titles such as: General Manager, Finance Manager, Office Manager, Parts, Manager, Salesperson, Clerical Staff, Controller, Auto body Manager, Used Car Manager, and New Car Manager to name a few. Don't discount the custodial staff and vehicle washers.

It takes several employees on staff in order to run a successful dealership. Not only are there a wide variety of jobs available at dealerships, most dealerships offer above average salaries and require 2 years or less of post-secondary education before offering employment.

Along with a competitive salary, many dealerships offer a benefits package including but not limited to major medical, dental, and a 401 K. However, be prepared to work overtime. The average dealership employee works longer hours than the average industry. Some dealerships even offer services during odd hours in order to accommodate their customer's needs.

Don't be surprised if things get "physical" on the job. Many dealerships require that you lift and handle heavy parts. Many of these parts much be lifted and placed in or around the vehicle. If your job requires some minor physical work, you might expect some minor cuts and scrapes are standard issue, especially if you're working in the automotive technician department.

Although those factors can be a minor setback the fact is improvement in working conditions are substantial. Most offer indoor and well-ventilated facilities. This has usually been a constant for the office managers but not so much the automotive technician department. While if you're interested in the specifics and duties of each position available, it's always best to research. You might want to try the classifieds in a local newspaper.

Most companies seeking employees will usually post some job responsibilities in their add. If this doesn't prove helpful, the Internet is an invaluable tool when researching jobs and what job would be best for you. Good luck in your job search and enjoy your exciting new career!

Automotive Career Job

So you're looking for a career in the automotive industry. Wonderful! But with so many different jobs and job titles available in the industry how do you know if you're selecting the right job for you?

Simple, survey your interests and research job descriptions before deciding which career in the automotive industry is right for you. Many jobs available in the automotive industry might surprise you. The Industry has made great strides and is diversified in so many areas it might shock you.

Not only has the number of different types of careers available increased, the training requirements have changed. The industry is on the cutting edge and requires more sophisticated training than the good old days of watching your uncle or father fix vehicles in their garages.

With many of the careers in the automotive industry requiring specialized training now, it is important to know which career you're pursuing before enrolling in a program. Check with your local technical or vocational schools and colleges to inquire about earning a certificate or diploma in the field before choosing your career.

It could make the different in landing a mediocre job or that top-notch job of your dreams. As with many industries today, jobs in the automotive industry have a vast number of jobs available, range of salaries offered, diverse qualifications and certificates and employee or potential employee could earn as well as each job requiring different responsibilities.

For instance, clerical positions are something you might be interested in pursuing in the automotive industry. The responsibilities and duties required while performing this job is completely different than if you choose to become an automotive body repair technician.

So, research and decide which job best suits your financial as well as contribute to your overall career satisfaction. Some careers in the automotive industry include but are not limited to, Service Technician, Clerical, Automotive Management, Auto Body Repair, Manufacturing and production, Spray Painters, Procedures, Industrial relations and automobile sales to name a few.

You're all ready for a career, you've earned your certifications or have on the job training and you're ready for employment. Where do you look? Try the Internet.

The Internet has a vast array of automotive job banks as well as provides you with information on some of the biggest automotive companies in the business. Many sites will direct you on how to apply with their company, starting salary, and benefits offered. The bottom line is it's not a good idea to enter a career without knowing the facts first.

Associate of Auto and Diesel Technology: Degree Overview

It's time to ditch that apron; sign up and starting working toward earning your associate of auto and diesel technology degree for auto mechanic training. It's a lot easier than trying to balance tray of dishes.

What Is An Associate of Auto and Diesel Technology Degree?

The Associate of Auto and Diesel Technology degree is a two year program that teaches future automobile service technicans (That would be you) all the latest tricks of how to repair clunkers. Carborators, transmissions, brakes, tire rotation, an associate's degree will put you on the forefront of it all. Hey, you may even learn something about cars that you haven't known since you were six.

How to take inventory when working at a body shop, for example, and even how to adminster a proper car inspection-and no, it's not okay to give your friends a free pass. You will, however, learn how to provide them with premier customer service.

Once you really get into earning your Auto and Diesel Technology degree, you can expect to take a few classes on anything remotely relating to how an automobile gets up and goes off.

Classes Requirements

This is your opportunity to finally interact with people who know that "spark plug" wasn't the name of an early 80's heavy metal rock band. These are just a few of the classes where you'll get to show your automotive stuff.

• Air conditioning
• Advanced Automative Electronics
• Driveability Procedures I
• Driveability Procedures Lab
• Basic Welding
• Power Trains/ Brakes
• Engine Repair Theory
• Engine Repair Lab
• Diesel Fundamentals
• Heavy Duty Diesel Engines
• Applied Hydralic Systems
• Human Relations In Organizations
• DT Alignment/Brakes

College wouldn't be college, without Basic Mathematics and Basic Composition. Yep, you'll get stuck with those too, mechanics do need to be able to properly write and distinguish a percentage from a ratio. Those skills'll come in handy once you are writing receipts and documenting faulty brakes on a Honda for a new customer.

Career Related Information

If you thought the thirty bucks a day you pull in at that greasy spoon was something, you don't know what an Associate of Auto and Diesel Technology can do for you. Auto service technicians can make between $16,000 and $54,000 a year. Not only will you be working for an hourly rate of anywhere from $10.00 to $19.84, commission is also an everyday part of the job.

You live and breath automotive motion. If that isn't enough of a reason to pursue an Associate's of Auto and Diesel Technology Degree, just look at the growth potential. Your specialty in both gas-fueled vehicles and diesel autos, will make you a hotter commodity than a Ferrari in the middle of Malibu. Diesel fuel is significantly lower than gasoline.

With American gas prices forcing citizens to get very familiar with the local public transportation system, diesel vehicles are gaining a lot of momentum....and someone's going to have to be around to fix them. Why shouldn't it be you? Get ready to get educated and start earning your degree in auto mechanic training.