Automobile technology has grown rapidly since its inception. Gone are the days when motive power is supplied mainly by gasoline and diesel engines. Alternative-fuel vehicles look like they are the wave of the future, with electric cars set to lead the charge. Along with the rise of these new technologies is a need for mechanics qualified to work on them. One of the best ways to break into the electric car mechanic field is to get an associate's degree in an automotive technology program followed by an internship in your chosen field.
Part 1 of 3: Seek a degree in automotive technology
Before you can get the education you need to become an electric car mechanic, you must first decide the program you want to enroll in. You can determine which program is right for you by deciding if you have the skills necessary to complete the courses. Once you have determined if you have the required skills, you need to research the programs available and then determine exactly which kind of electric vehicle you want to become certified in.
Step 1: Decide if you have the skills. While most anyone can become an electric car mechanic with the proper training, some lack the mechanical aptitude and diagnostic skills to make this a reality.
Before pursuing a career as an electric car mechanic, sit down and think about your level of skill when working with mechanical systems. Do you find it easy to work with machines? Do you understand how various systems within an automobile work together to make a vehicle work? If you answered yes to both questions, then you should have the aptitude to become a vehicle mechanic.
Step 2: Research available automotive technology programs. After deciding that you want to pursue a career as an electric car mechanic, research the programs available and where you can find them.
You can find an automotive technology program at local vocational and technical schools, as well as at area community colleges. Someone wanting to become an electrical car technician can seek either a certificate or associate's degree in the respective hybrid technology field they are interested in.
Step 3: Choose a program. Once you find a school or college that offers degrees and certificates in automotive technology, it is time to decide on which kind of electric vehicle you want to work on.
Some of the different types of electric vehicles include:
Part 2 of 3: Complete an internship and get an entry-level job
After you have gotten either your certificate or associate's degree in the automotive technology program of your choice, it is time to seek employment. Any experience you have as a vehicle mechanic should help you in attaining a job. Some common employers of electric car mechanics are at auto manufacturers, dealerships, and repair shops.
Step 1: Complete an internship. The easiest way to build up work experience for further employment as an electric car mechanic is through an internship program.
Internship programs give you an opportunity to work under a more experienced mechanic and get the hands-on experience that you need once the internship is complete.
Some companies won't hire someone without experience, so an internship provides one way of getting it.
Step 2: Gain employment. Once you have completed the recommended time as an intern, you can gain employment as a full-time electric car mechanic.
This opens you up to receive the benefits given to full-time employees but not interns, including stable employment, full-time pay, and access to promotions and advancement within the company.
Part 3 of 3: Attain ASE certification
Another benefit of completing an internship and getting a full-time job as an electric car mechanic is that you are now qualified to seek ASE certification in your respective field. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers a new certification in the form of the Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialists certificate.
Step 1: Obtain two years of experience. As mentioned before, an internship is important in getting the experience necessary to attain employment as an electric car mechanic.
The experience required usually runes from two to five years.
Step 2: Gain ASE certification. ASE certification in light-duty hybrid and electric vehicles is available for anyone who has passed both the Automobile Electric Electronic Systems and Engine Performance tests.
ASE certification is designed to test mechanics in vehicle repair and certify mechanics with adequate skills. This gives customers and shop owners a better idea of the skill level of the individual mechanic since ASE certification is not easy to attain.
For ASE certification in light-duty hybrid and electric vehicles, you must have at least three years of hands-on experience.
Step 3: Seek further ASE certification. In addition to basic certification in your chosen class of automobiles, you can seek further ASE certification.
Mechanics who have passed multiple tests and earned a variety of ASE certifications can earn ASE Master Status.
Becoming an electric car mechanic is a simple, straightforward process: You attain a certificate or degree, serve an internship, and get a job with a, auto manufacturer, dealer, or repair shop. You can seek further certification through the ASE program, including master status after you have gained certification in the required areas. If you have any questions about getting a job as an electric car mechanic, feel free to Ask a Mechanic for an idea on how the process works.
