Automotive
Service Technician and Mechanic
Anyone whose
car or light truck has broken down knows the importance of the
jobs of automotive service technicians and mechanics. The ability
to diagnose the source of a problem quickly and accurately requires
good reasoning ability and a thorough knowledge of automobiles.
Many technicians consider diagnosing hard-to-find troubles one
of their most challenging and satisfying duties.
The work of automotive
service technicians and mechanics has evolved from mechanical
repair to a high technology job. As a result, these workers are
now usually called “technicians” in automotive services
and the term “mechanic” is falling into disuse.
Today, integrated electronic
systems and complex computers run vehicles and measure their performance
while on the road. Technicians must have an increasingly broad
base of knowledge about how vehicles’ complex components
work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic
diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical reference materials.
Nearly half
of automotive service technicians work more than 40 hours a week.
Some may also work evenings and weekends to satisfy customer service
needs. Generally, service technicians work indoors in well-ventilated
and -lighted repair shops. However, some shops are drafty and
noisy. Although some problems can be fixed with simple computerized
adjustments, technicians frequently work with dirty and greasy
parts, and in awkward positions. They often lift heavy parts and
tools. Minor cuts, burns, and bruises are common, but technicians
can usually avoid serious accidents if the shop is kept clean
and orderly, and safety practices are observed.
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