Automotive technology education programs help prepare students for jobs in the auto repair and maintenance industry. Graduates of these programs typically go on to work as auto service technicians, service providers, or shop supervisors in commercial auto repair shops, auto dealership service departments, or corporate or governmental fleet maintenance divisions. Auto technicians are responsible for the diagnosis and repair of automobile problems, as well as preventive maintenance. These professionals may also interact with customers or be responsible for paperwork and administrative tasks.
Students in automotive technology programs can expect to gain instruction in the repair and maintenance of all basic auxiliary systems of automobiles. Areas of focus typically include:
Along with classroom-based lessons, students often receive hands-on training in an actual automotive service environment.
Auto technicians in Idaho do not need to have a license to work in the field. Some employers, however, prefer to hire technicians who hold a certificate or degree like those awarded by auto technology programs, and some require further credentialing.
The predominant industry credential for auto techs is the ASE certification. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence awards this certification to auto technicians who pass ASE certification exams. To qualify to take the ASE exam, techs must have at least two years of on-the-job experience or a combination of one year of experience and a two-year degree from an accredited automotive tech program. The Institute also grants accreditation to approved automotive technology programs via its National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Automotive Mechanics relative to the population of the city. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov
Metro Area | Jobs | Annual Median Salary |
---|---|---|
Pocatello | 190 | $38,620 |
Coeur d'Alene | 370 | $42,240 |
Boise City | 1600 | $45,650 |
Idaho Falls | 340 | $40,610 |
Twin Falls | 360 | $36,820 |
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