The automotive industry comprises a wide range of companies and organisations involved in the design, development, manufacturing, marketing, and selling of motor vehicles. Depending on which of these areas in the automotive industry you choose, you can explore a number of automotive jobs.
Automotive technician: As an automotive technician, you would be expected to take care of the mechanical aspects of an automobile’s engine and much more. Since modern cars implement computer and electronic systems as well, an automotive technician today needs electrical training too.
Auto mechanic: As an auto mechanic, you would be responsible for inspecting, maintaining and repairing cars and light trucks. Mechanics routinely test parts and systems to ensure they work, use computerised diagnostic equipment to spot mechanical problems, and follow checklists to examine all of a car’s critical components.
Diesel mechanic: If you have an in-depth knowledge of diesel engines and electrical systems, good customer-service and mechanical skills and manual dexterity, you would be a great fit as a diesel mechanic.
Salesperson: As a salesperson in the automotive industry, you would be selling automobiles by understanding and demonstrating its capabilities and features, developing and qualifying buyers, and closing sales.
Automobile designer: As an automobile designer, you would work on every aspect of a vehicle’s design, from the final appearance to overall functionality. You would choose how a car is shaped, what colour it has to be in order to maximise its sales attraction. You must do this keeping in mind the fact that the vehicle functions as well as it looks.
Auto body paint specialist: As an auto body paint specialist, you would make cosmetic repairs to vehicles and repaint them, often after collisions. You must know how to maintain and operate the equipment you use and may need some skills in auto body repair. When working for some facilities, you may need to learn skills required for creating specialised paint finishes. For most opportunities, you wouldn’t be asked for a specific level of education beyond a high school degree. Having said that, formal training in the field is available and is becoming more commonly required these days.
Automotive dealer: Your job as an automotive dealer would primarily revolve around customer relationship. From sales to service repairs, you would be responsible for meeting customer requirements, providing estimates and offering the best solutions.