Auto Electrician

Auto electricians diagnose and repair or replace components causing electrical faults in motor vehicles, and fit new electrical and electronic parts and accessories.

Most modern vehicles rely on a wide range of electrical and electronic systems, controlling most aspects of the vehicle's performance. For instance, duties of an auto electrician may include:

• using specialised equipment to take readings from the vehicle to identify faults
• checking and testing wiring systems
• researching faults using manufacturers' circuit diagrams and specification manuals
• repairing or replacing faulty parts
• re-testing systems to ensure repairs have been successful, which may include road testing the vehicle
• fitting new accessories such as satellite navigation and entertainment systems.

Auto electricians usually work standard full-time hours, and may work overtime or shifts depending on the employer.

Most modern workshops and garages are large, airy and well lit, but may be cold in winter. Some bending and lifting may be required, so a reasonable level of fitness is needed. For safety reasons auto electricians need normal colour vision.

Qualified auto electricians earn from around £14,000 to £21,000. With bonuses and allowances, pay can increase considerably, and a senior auto electrician may earn around £25,000.

Auto electricians need:

• good communication skills
• to work well in a team or on their own initiative
• good practical skills
• to be able to understand electrical wiring diagrams.

More than 600,000 people work in the motor industry and, with modern vehicles relying more on their electrical and electronic components, there is likely to be a shortage of skilled people in the future. However, much of the work is now covered by general motor vehicle technicians (see Motor Vehicle Technician) and less and less people are taking up the auto electrician Apprenticeship.

There are no minimum qualifications, but employers may ask for four GCSEs (A*-C) including maths, English and a science subject. People can either find an Apprenticeship, or study full time before starting work. The Diploma in engineering may be relevant for this area of work. Relevant qualifications, appropriate for all ages, include:

• City & Guilds vehicle maintenance and repair: auto electrical (4101) at Levels 2 and 3
• BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in vehicle repair and technology (auto electrical).
• IMI AE Levels 2 & 3 NVQ vehicle maintenance and repair (auto electrician 100/5532/0, 100/5533/2).

Vacancies are advertised in commercial motor magazines, on specialist websites, in the local press and through Jobcentre Plus offices.

Further details