Fancy making or mending cars for a living? You could opt for a job in the motor manufacturing industry. Here’s some advice and information on automotive careers for school leavers.

BY MELISSA SNOW

Automotive engineer

If you’re interested in the initial design and development of vehicles, automotive engineering could be for you. Automotive engineers design, develop, test and build various vehicles. You’ll need excellent maths and IT skills and the ability to work in a team. You’ll work on engine and electrical systems, thermodynamics, aerodynamics, fuel technology and much more.

To become an automotive engineer, you’ll need a qualification such as a Foundation Degree or a Higher National Diploma or Certificate in a relevant subject such as mechanical, electrical, design or automotive engineering.

Motor vehicle technician

If you love cars and fixing things, this could be the career for you. As a motor vehicle technician you’ll repair and service various vehicles and mend engines, exhaust, air-conditioning and security systems. Strong problem-solving abilities and great customer service skills are essential.

The most common way to become a motor vehicle technician is through an apprenticeship in vehicle mechanics. To qualify, you may need GCSEs in maths, English and science. Alternatively, you could take an automotive course at a FE college. Relevant courses include a Level 1 Certificate or Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance, a Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Vehicle Technology and a Level 2 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs.

Auto electrician

Auto electricians fit and repair electrical and electronic systems. As auto technology becomes more advanced to match the development of vehicles, the demand for auto electricians is increasing. Main tasks include taking engine readings, testing wiring and repairing faults, so good problem-solving skills are needed.

To do an apprenticeship, you’ll normally need four GCSEs, grade A* – C. You could also complete a college course in vehicle repair. Some favoured courses are Level 1 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Vehicle Systems Maintenance, Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Level 1 Award/Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies.

Motor vehicle fitter

Motor vehicle fitters or fast-fit technicians, repair and replace worn car parts. They usually work in fast-fit centres or workshops, alongside vehicle technicians and they fix vehicles while customers wait. You’ll need good customer service skills and maths skills, to calculate costs.

People enter this career through completion of a Vehicle Fitting apprenticeship. You’ll need GCSEs, including maths, English, science and IT. Another option is to check out college courses which will give you the necessary qualifications, such as Level 1 Certificate in Tyre Fitting Principles, Level 2 Certificate in Vehicle Component Fitting and Level 2 Certificate/Diploma in Vehicle Technology.