Auto electrician

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could do a vehicle maintenance and repair course that also covers auto electrical work. Relevant courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
• Level 2 Diploma in Auto Electrical and Mobile Electrical Competence
• Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
• T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

Apprenticeship

You could get into this career through the following apprenticeships:

• advanced motor vehicle service and maintenance technician
• advanced vehicle damage, mechanical, electrical and trim technician

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply for jobs as an auto electrician if you've got qualifications and experience in motor mechanics.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of maths
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• problem-solving skills
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with your hands
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to repair machines or systems
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• thinking and reasoning skills
• customer service skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• observation and recording skills
• active listening skills

What you'll do:

Auto electricians fit and repair the electrics in motor vehicles.

In this role you could:

• take readings, using a laptop or hand-held device connected to an engine's electronic control unit
• check and test wiring and parts in older vehicles using portable instruments
• use readings to find faults
• research faults, using manufacturers' circuit diagrams and manuals
• repair or replace faulty parts
• retest the system to make sure everything is working correctly and safely - this may include road testing the vehicle
• fill out a repair sheet listing the work you have done

Location : You could work at a garage or in a workshop.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.

Salary:

Starter : £17,000
Experienced : £37,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

40 - 44 hours a week

Working Pattern is on call as customers demand

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a workshop supervisor or manager, or move into vehicle sales or marketing.

You could also set up your own business.