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Occupation Description

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles. Exclude "Automotive Body and Related Repairers", "Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists", and "Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles".

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State and National Wages

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

Location	Pay Period	2008
		10%	25%	Median	75%	90%
United States	Hourly	$9.56	$12.44	$16.88	$22.64	$28.71
	Yearly	$19,900	$25,900	$35,100	$47,100	$59,700
South Carolina	Hourly	$8.84	$10.99	$14.77	$19.62	$25.72
	Yearly	$18,400	$22,900	$30,700	$40,800	$53,500

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

• High is the wage at which 90% of workers earn less and 10% earn more.
• Middle is the wage at which 50% of workers earn less and 50% earn more.
• Low is the wage at which 10% of workers earn less and 90% earn more.

Wage Table

Hourly Wage Chart

Yearly Wage Chart

• High is the wage at which 90% of workers earn less and 10% earn more.
• Middle is the wage at which 50% of workers earn less and 50% earn more.
• Low is the wage at which 10% of workers earn less and 90% earn more.

Occupation Wages FAQs

Median Wage by Occupation Across States
Compare Wages by Occupation and Local Area
Compare Wages by Metropolitan Areas

National Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics Survey
State Data Source: South Carolina Wage Information

State and National Trends

Occupation Trends FAQs

Employment Trends by Occupation Across States
Compare Employment Trends by Occupation
Employment Trends by Industry and Occupation

National Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections
State Data Source: South Carolina Employment Security Commission

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics are grouped into the following occupations for which the most important knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) are listed.

• Automotive Master Mechanics
• Automotive Specialty Technicians

Knowledge:

• Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
• Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
• Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Skills:

• Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
• Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
• Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
• Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Abilities:

• Arm-Hand Steadiness - The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
• Control Precision - The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
• Finger Dexterity - The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
• Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
• Manual Dexterity - The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
• Multilimb Coordination - The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
• Near Vision - The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Master Mechanics.

Knowledge:

• Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
• Administration and Management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
• Sales and Marketing - Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

Skills:

• Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
• Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
• Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Abilities:

• Arm-Hand Steadiness - The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
• Extent Flexibility - The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
• Manual Dexterity - The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
• Control Precision - The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
• Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Specialty Technicians.

Tasks and Activities

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics are grouped into the following occupations for which occupation specific tasks, the most important generalized work activities, and detailed work activities are listed.

• Automotive Master Mechanics
• Automotive Specialty Technicians

Occupation Specific Tasks:

• Align vehicles' front ends.
• Confer with customers to obtain descriptions of vehicle problems, and to discuss work to be performed and future repair requirements.
• Disassemble units and inspect parts for wear, using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Examine vehicles to determine extent of damage or malfunctions.
• Follow checklists to ensure all important parts are examined, including belts, hoses, steering systems, spark plugs, brake and fuel systems, wheel bearings, and other potentially troublesome areas.
• Install and repair accessories such as radios, heaters, mirrors, and windshield wipers.
• Maintain cleanliness of work area.
• Overhaul or replace carburetors, blowers, generators, distributors, starters, and pumps.
• Perform routine and scheduled maintenance services such as oil changes, lubrications, and tune-ups.
• Plan work procedures, using charts, technical manuals, and experience.
• Rebuild parts such as crankshafts and cylinder blocks.
• Repair and service air conditioning, heating, engine-cooling, and electrical systems.
• Repair damaged automobile bodies.
• Repair manual and automatic transmissions.
• Repair or replace parts such as pistons, rods, gears, valves, and bearings.
• Repair or replace shock absorbers.
• Repair radiator leaks.
• Repair, reline, replace, and adjust brakes.
• Replace and adjust headlights.
• Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors.
• Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
• Tear down, repair, and rebuild faulty assemblies such as power systems, steering systems, and linkages.
• Test and adjust repaired systems to meet manufacturers' performance specifications.
• Test drive vehicles, and test components and systems, using equipment such as infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges, and computerized diagnostic devices.

Generalized Work Activities:

• Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment - Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment - Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Detailed Work Activities:

• adhere to safety procedures
• align or adjust clearances of mechanical components or parts
• align or adjust clearances of vehicle body parts or components
• align vehicle frame
• apply filler substances to dents in vehicle bodies
• assemble, dismantle, or reassemble equipment or machinery
• conduct tests to locate mechanical system malfunction
• determine installation, service, or repair needed
• diagnose malfunctioning vehicle systems
• diagnose mechanical problems in machinery or equipment
• estimate cost for repair services
• estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
• examine vehicle to detect malfunctions, damage, or maintenance needed
• examine vehicles to determine extent of damages and repairs needed
• fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
• follow safe waste disposal procedures
• follow vehicle repair procedures
• identify base metals for welding
• identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
• inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
• install electronic equipment, components, or systems
• lubricate machinery, equipment, or parts
• maintain equipment service records
• maintain or repair cargo or passenger vehicle
• maintain repair records
• maintain welding machines or equipment
• move or fit heavy objects
• obtain information from clients, customers, or patients
• operate engine emission testing equipment
• operate hoist, winch, or hydraulic boom
• operate lathes
• operate vehicle engine electrical system test equipment
• overhaul vehicle major operating units, such as engines or transmissions
• perform safety inspections in industrial, manufacturing or repair setting
• plan or organize work
• read schematics
• read technical drawings
• read vehicle manufacturer's specifications
• read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
• repair commercial transportation equipment
• repair or replace electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, or equipment
• repair or replace malfunctioning or worn mechanical components
• repair vehicle body parts
• repair vehicle transmissions
• service vehicle with water, fuel, or oil
• set up and operate variety of machine tools
• solder vehicle components
• stock or organize goods
• test electrical/electronic wiring, equipment, systems or fixtures
• test mechanical products or equipment
• test operate vehicles before or after repair
• test vehicle computer processors to detect malfunctions
• understand service or repair manuals
• understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
• use acetylene welding/cutting torch
• use auto or vehicular body repair equipment
• use combination welding procedures
• use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
• use electronic calibration devices
• use engine diagnostic equipment
• use hand or power tools
• use knowledge of metric system
• use knowledge of welding filler rod types
• use lifting equipment in vehicle repair setting
• use machine tools in installation, maintenance, or repair
• use oral or written communication techniques
• use pneumatic tools
• use precision measuring devices in mechanical repair work
• use soldering equipment
• use voltmeter, ammeter, or ohmmeter
• weld together metal parts, components, or structures
• write vehicle damage repair estimates

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Master Mechanics.

Occupation Specific Tasks:

• Align and repair wheels, axles, frames, torsion bars, and steering mechanisms of automobiles, using special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines.
• Convert vehicle fuel systems from gasoline to butane gas operations and repair and service operating butane fuel units.
• Examine vehicles, compile estimates of repair costs, and secure customers' approval to perform repairs.
• Inspect and test new vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made.
• Install and repair air conditioners, and service components such as compressors, condensers, and controls.
• Rebuild, repair, and test automotive fuel injection units.
• Remove and replace defective mufflers and tailpipes.
• Repair and rebuild clutch systems.
• Repair and replace automobile leaf springs.
• Repair and replace defective balljoint suspensions, brake shoes, and wheel bearings.
• Repair, install, and adjust hydraulic and electromagnetic automatic lift mechanisms used to raise and lower automobile windows, seats, and tops.
• Repair, overhaul, and adjust automobile brake systems.
• Repair, replace, and adjust defective carburetor parts and gasoline filters.
• Test electronic computer components in automobiles to ensure that they are working properly.
• Tune automobile engines to ensure proper and efficient functioning.
• Use electronic test equipment to locate and correct malfunctions in fuel, ignition, and emissions control systems.

Generalized Work Activities:

• Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment - Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
• Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Documenting/Recording Information - Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment - Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Detailed Work Activities:

• adhere to safety procedures
• align or adjust clearances of mechanical components or parts
• align or adjust clearances of vehicle body parts or components
• align vehicle frame
• assemble, dismantle, or reassemble equipment or machinery
• conduct tests to locate mechanical system malfunction
• determine installation, service, or repair needed
• diagnose malfunctioning vehicle systems
• diagnose mechanical problems in machinery or equipment
• estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
• examine vehicle to detect malfunctions, damage, or maintenance needed
• examine vehicles to determine extent of damages and repairs needed
• fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
• follow safe waste disposal procedures
• follow vehicle repair procedures
• identify base metals for welding
• identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
• inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
• install electronic equipment, components, or systems
• maintain or repair cargo or passenger vehicle
• maintain welding machines or equipment
• move or fit heavy objects
• obtain information from clients, customers, or patients
• operate engine emission testing equipment
• operate vehicle engine electrical system test equipment
• perform safety inspections in industrial, manufacturing or repair setting
• read schematics
• read technical drawings
• read vehicle manufacturer's specifications
• read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
• repair commercial transportation equipment
• repair or replace electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, or equipment
• repair or replace malfunctioning or worn mechanical components
• solder vehicle components
• stock or organize goods
• test mechanical products or equipment
• test operate vehicles before or after repair
• test vehicle computer processors to detect malfunctions
• understand service or repair manuals
• understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
• use acetylene welding/cutting torch
• use combination welding procedures
• use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
• use electronic calibration devices
• use engine diagnostic equipment
• use hand or power tools
• use knowledge of metric system
• use knowledge of welding filler rod types
• use lifting equipment in vehicle repair setting
• use pneumatic tools
• use precision measuring devices in mechanical repair work
• use soldering equipment
• use voltmeter, ammeter, or ohmmeter
• weld together metal parts, components, or structures

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Specialty Technicians.

Tools and Technology

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics are grouped into the following occupations for which Tools and Technology information is available.

• Automotive Master Mechanics
• Automotive Specialty Technicians

Automotive Master Mechanics  View Detailed Report

Tools:

• Hammers - Ball peen hammers, Brass hammers, Claw hammers, Hammers, Plastic tip hammers
• Organic light emitting displays - Anti-lock braking system ABS/air bag scan tools, Auto scanners, Automotive on-board diagnostics scanners, Code readers, Graphing scanners
• Pressure indicators - Fuel pressure testers, Manifold gauge sets, Oil pressure gauges, Tire pressure gauges
• Pullers - Ball joint separators, Bearing pullers, Gear puller tools, Slide hammers
• Specialty wrenches - Alignment wrenches, Breaker bars, Chain wrenches, Flare nut wrenches, Gear wrenches

Technology:

• Analytical or scientific software - AutoZone ALLDATA, Blue Streak Electronics Buell Diagnostic, CODA Engine Analysis System, Diacom software, Nexiq Tech HDS Suite for Palm
• Data base reporting software - Tech manual database software
• Facilities management software - Alliance Automotive Shop Controller, Snap-On ShoKey, Vehicle management software
• Information retrieval or search software - Online service manual database software
• Project management software - Estimating software, Recordkeeping software

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Master Mechanics.

Automotive Specialty Technicians  View Detailed Report

Tools:

• Pneumatic vacuum equipment - Brake bleeders, Hydraulic bleed tools, Pneumatic fluid evacuators, Pressure brake bleeders
• Pressure indicators - Diesel modulator shift testers, Engine oil pressure testers, Manifold gauge sets, Tire pressure gauges
• Pullers - Ball joint separators, Dent pullers, Gear pullers, Hand pullers, Power pullers
• Specialty wrenches - Breaker bars, Clutch wrenches, Filter wrenches, Lug wrenches, Offset brake wrenches
• Voltage or current meters - Alternator testers, Ignition testers, In-line ignition spark testers, Spark plug testers, Voltmeters

Technology:

• Accounting software - ARSIS Automotive Repair Shop Invoice System software
• Analytical or scientific software - Hunter WinAlign, Nexiq Tech HDS Suite for Palm
• Data base reporting software - Genisys Fast Fixes, Pathfinder software, Tech manual database software
• Facilities management software - Alliance Automotive Shop Controller, Amcom AUTOS2000, CC2/CC3 body shop management software, Mitchell OnDemand5 Manager, Scott Systems MaxxTraxx Pro
• Information retrieval or search software - Online service manual database software

Source: Occupational Information Network: Automotive Specialty Technicians.

Education and Training

Occupation: Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Most Common Educational/Training Level: Postsecondary vocational award
Related Instructional Programs:

• Alternative Fuel Vehicle Technology/Technician
• Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
• Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician
• Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology/Technician
• Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Technology/Technician

WIA Eligible Training Provider List: http://www.workforcesouthcarolina.com/provider/

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections (Education/Training Level, Educational Attainment); National Center for Education Statistics (Typical Instructional Programs)

Related Occupation Profiles
Occupations with similar skill requirements

• Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
• Farm Equipment Mechanics
• Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers

Web Resources

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• AFV Technician, National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
• Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Aircraft Mechanics, California Occupational Guide
• Auto Mechanic, Princeton Review
• Autobody Technician, National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
• Automobile Body Repairers, California Occupational Guide
• Automobile Technician, National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
• Automotive Body and Related Repairers, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Automotive Body and Related Repairers, CareerZone
• Automotive Service Advisors, California Occupational Guide
• Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, California Occupational Guide
• Automotive Service Technicians, Truck and Bus Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers, Job Futures
• Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, CareerZone
• Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists, California Occupational Guide
• Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage, CareerZone
• Motorboat Mechanics, Learn More Resource Center
• Parts Specialist, National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation
• Small Engine Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Tire Repairers and Changers, Learn More Resource Center
• Truck Technician, National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation