JOBS & CAREERS SPRING 2018 - 247

AU T O M O T I V E

There are 18,000
apprentices learning
and working in
automotive retail

Find out more
* Autocity
autocity.org.uk
* Society of Motor Manufacturers
and Traders smmt.co.uk
* Institute of the Motor Industry
theimi.org.uk

IMAGE GETTY IMAGES

Vehicle technician
Diagnosing problems will be the call
of the day, getting your hands dirty
fixing engines, brakes, steering, gears,
suspensions and cooling systems.
You're also likely to need technological
skills, as vehicles are increasingly
reliant on computerised systems.
Light vehicle technicians work on small
vehicles, such as cars, and may also be
qualified to carry out MOTs, fit car alarms,

stereos and sat navs. Heavy vehicle
technicians work on larger vehicles.
There is also the possibility of specialising -
an auto electrician is trained to work with a
vehicle's electronic control unit, for example.
What qualifications do I need? Many
employers will ask for a level 2 qualification in
light vehicle maintenance and repair, which is
usually gained via an apprenticeship. If you
opt for formal training, courses include City &

Guilds in vehicle fitting, BTEC in vehicle
technology, BTEC in automotive engineering,
and NVQ in vehicle maintenance and repair.
To be considered for an apprenticeship or
course, it's useful to have GCSEs in English
and maths. You'll also need a driving licence.
How much can I earn? Once you've
completed training, you can expect a salary
of around £18,000. Highly experienced
technicians can earn £28,000 to £35,000.

J O B S & C A R E E R S /// 2 4 7



http://autocity.org.uk http://smmt.co.uk http://theimi.org.uk

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of JOBS & CAREERS SPRING 2018

http://europe.nxtbook.com/emp/Careers/jcspring2018
https://europe.nxtbook.com/emp/Careers/JobsandCareersAutumn2017
https://europe.nxtbook.com/emp/Careers/YourBusinessWithJamesCaan2017
http://europe.nxtbook.com/emp/Careers/Careers/Careers_with_Hayley_Taylor_2011
https://www.nxtbookmedia.com