Auto Mechanic Career in Vancouver

This section describes what the possible auto mechanic career paths are available if you chose this auto mechanic program. We begin by listing possible auto mechanic employers; then list auto mechanic entry level positions you can expect to hold after graduation and where this auto mechanic career can lead you within a few years. What other industry gives you access to endless growth opportunities without a university degree?
As an Auto Mechanic you can find employment with:
- New car dealers
- Retail automotive repair facilities
- Custom and specialty shops
- Heavy duty truck repair facilities
- Organizations with fleet vehicles
- Become a Auto Mechanic entrepreneur and own your own automotive repair or specialty shop
Possible entry level Auto Mechanic Career job titles:
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- Auto Mechanic Apprentice
- Automotive Detailer
- Tire Installer/Changer
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- Lube Rack Specialist
- Maintenance Technician
- Apprentice Brake and Alignment Specialist
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Possible Auto Mechanic Career advancements:
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- Muffler Specialist
- Front End Technician
- Electrical Specialist
- Engine Technician
- Fuel Specialist
- Tune Up Technician
- Diagnostician
- Assistant Manager
- Shop Foreman
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- Emissions Specialist
- Transmission Specialist
- Hybrid and Fuel Cell Technician
- Performance Specialist
- Automotive Service Technician
- Journeyman Mechanic
- Service Manager
- Shop Manager or Owner
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As an Auto Mechanic, you should expect to perform these duties:
- Inspect, test, and diagnose faulty operations and estimate repair costs
- Work on mechanical and electronic components of automobiles often using computerized diagnostic equipment, manufacturers' specifications, and manuals. This includes most vehicle systems, such as fuel, brake, steering and suspension systems, transmission, differentials, drive axles and shafts, emission control and exhaust systems, engines, and electrical, cooling and climate control systems. Some mechanics specialize in one or more of these systems
- Dismantle, repair, or replace worn or damaged parts
- Weld metal parts
- Reassemble, adjust, and test the repaired mechanism
- Perform scheduled preventive maintenance services such as oil changes, lubrications and tune ups
- Inspect the completed work and test that the vehicle's performance meets required standards; take the vehicle for a test drive
- Communicate with customers about what has been done and why, and advise customers on general vehicle conditions and future repair requirements.
Automotive Mechanic Training Information
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Before choosing an automotive school, I looked around on the Internet at all the different options. Just from the interviews on the ATC website, it seemed like a good place to go to learn about the automotive industry. So I called and got more information.
At the time I was living in Tillsonberg, Ontario. I was looking for a whole new experience; a new life and career. When I first arrived here I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was happy to find that the curriculum was good, and the teachers helped out all the time with their industry shop knowledge. Overall it was a good experience.
At ATC the classes are very hands-on. We worked on cars on the hoists instead of simulated machines. The theory classes were good too. The use of multimedia presentations with the instructors’ knowledge really helped me to understand whatever we were working on. It gave me a real solid start for achieving my goal of becoming a licensed mechanic.
ATC got me my first job in the automotive trade. I am in a nice shop that deals with older cars, muscle cars and hot rods. When I started I hardly knew anything about vehicles and now I’m confident to do any job that my employer wants me to do. I know that I am an asset to them.
My advice to all who are considering taking this course is that this is the best thing you can do. If you’re trying to start out in the automotive trade, you won’t be starting from scratch. It gives you a good foundation to start!