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Last Updated on August 27, 2022
If you’re thinking about starting a business, but you’re not sure where to start, look no further. When it comes to business, there are a lot of different ideas out there. There are wide range of business ideas, from simple to complex, and it can help you find the one that is right for you.
The automotive industry is one of the biggest in the entire world. Under its umbrella is a slew of jobs that employ a wide variety of people ranging from mechanics to designers. Whether you’re a grease monkey or a salesman, odds are there’s an automotive job that suits you.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Pay
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Depending on your particular background, there are many options to choose from, but if you need a little guidance, here are some of the best jobs the industry has to offer:
High Paying Automotive Careers
If you’re looking for a high paying automotive position that lets you get your hands a little dirty, vehicle manufacturing is the one for you. Known as one of the most lucrative automotive professions, manufacturers have an extensive list of responsibilities, including the production of entire vehicles, as well as the production of individual parts.
According to an article on study.com, “Individuals interested in working in the automotive industry will want to consider jobs that involve designing, selling, manufacturing or repairing automobiles”.
- Vehicle manufacturers make anywhere from $15 to $35 an hour depending on their education, level of expertise, and the company they work for.
- Manufacturers typically spend their workweek in company factories, assembling cars and car parts and maintaining quality control.
- Although lucrative, physical hazards such as excessive heat, repetitive movements, and fumes come with the factory territory.
source – Bureau of Labor Statistics
“The automotive industry, comprising manufacturing and retail trade, employs roughly 4.2 million people in the U.S. alone, according to a June 2017 Bureau of Labor Statistics report. And when you consider that there are over 250 million cars on U.S. roads, let’s just say there’s a demand for skilled workers to care for all those cars.” – monster.com
Automotive Engineer
Automotive engineers don’t turn quite as many wrenches as manufacturers and technicians, but their job in the industry is invaluable. Equipped with a strong knowledge of aerodynamics and design, engineers are responsible for improving the performance of both cars and specific parts. When it comes to increased fuel-efficiency and passenger safety, engineers are the people to call.
It's a well-known fact that engineers are recognized for their uncanny ability to create magnificent blueprints in an effort to bring brilliant designs to the world. Unfortunately, often times they suffer from a lack of the non-technical soft skills needed to advance up the corporate ladder and achieve the success they desire.
- Most automotive engineers, depending on the company they work for, have been known to make over $80k a year.
- Automotive engineers are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering prior to being hired. Having experience with fluid mechanics, fuel technology, and thermodynamics is also helpful.
- Successful engineers are detail-oriented, critical thinkers and are able to work well with a
team .
Body Repair
Automotive Body and Glass Repairers Pay
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The primary role of the body repair specialist is to repair automobile exteriors. If the outside of a vehicle is damaged in an accident or is otherwise compromised, it is the auto body crew’s job to repair it and get it back on the road as soon as possible. This job is definitely for someone that loves the hands-on approach and has a background in maintenance.
The lack of knоwlеdgе about cars соuld be potentially troublesome, especially nowadays, when transportation on automobiles has become so widespread that it has become a necessary means for commuting in any area, be it urban, rural, or suburban.
- The average body repair specialist makes around $18 an hour, although some have been known to make more depending on how long they’ve been in the field.
- Only a high school diploma is required to work in body repair, but, if you’re interested in moving up, an associate’s degree is recommended.
- Much like vehicle manufacturers, body repairers are often exposed to heat, excessive noise, and sharp tools.
Drivers
The automotive industry isn’t only concerned with what goes on under the hood; it also employs countless drivers around the world. If you’re more of an open road person, or in some cases, a bit of a speed demon, professional driving might be the gig for you. It’s a little more competitive than other parts of the industry, but it’s also one of the most exciting.
Photo by why kei on Unsplash
- Although often underappreciated, truck driver jobs are some of the best automotive jobs around. Not only do truckers get to enjoy life on the open road, but they also make close to $80k a year.
- If trucking isn’t your thing, driving commercial vehicles such as school buses, cement trucks, dump trucks, and tankers are all lucrative options.
- Just make sure that you have commercial auto insurance if you do decide to drive for a living. Your personal auto
insurance policy will not cover you if you get into an accident while on the job.
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- For all the adrenaline junkies out there, racecar driving is one of the most thrilling professions ever. It’s extremely hard to get into, but for the potential earnings and fame, it’s sure worth a shot.
Given that the auto industry is one of the biggest in the world, it’s not too much of a surprise to hear that there are so many jobs and opportunities within it. But you don’t have to be an engineer or a stuntman to enjoy a successful career if you have a love of cars.
Tweet ThisAutomotive Career Resources:
- Automotive Service: Inspection, Maintenance, Repair
- Automotive Mechanics
- The Rideshare Guide: Everything You Need to Know about Driving for Uber, Lyft, and Other Ridesharing Companies
As you can see, the automotive industry is ripe with challenging and fulfilling careers. Whether you’re a gearhead or a glory hog, you’re likely to find a job that’s right for you. Many of these professions require extensive training, and sometimes some serious guts, but, if you put in the work, you’ll land a job that you can be proud of.
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