Do you find that you are someone with a keen interest in everything car-related? Then working in the auto sector may be for you!
The automotive industry presents endless exciting career possibilities, from fixing and upgrading cars to selling them to customers.
Vehicles are, in many ways, a necessity to modern day-to-day life. Whether a car, bus, truck, motorbike, or other, they allow us to get from place to place. Working in this industry means that you will have a critical impact on other people’s lives.
Despite your love for cars, it’s essential not to jump in without looking at the facts. There are several options available to you, so you must explore what is best for you.
InfraTech Infrared Solutions is an international retailer that specializes in selling high-end infrared paint curing lamps. While InfraTech serves customers across multiple industries, most of its business lies within the automotive sector.
InfraTech has provided us with some tips on the career paths you may wish to pursue as a car enthusiast:
Why Get a Job in the Automotive Industry?
First of all, if you love everything about cars, then the attraction to this industry would be clear to see. You may enjoy driving, be interested in specific models, find that cars are a hobby of yours, or keep a close eye on Formula 1.
However, bear in mind that while it’s good to make a career out of something you love, work and hobbies are different.
Before having your heart set on this career path, make sure that the job itself is something you will like doing and something you can excel in. The last thing you want is a career that destroys your passion!
One of the best things about working in the automotive sector is job security. Vehicles are going nowhere, and there will always be demand, so you don’t have to fear being replaced or a lack of vacancies.
This career choice will also introduce you to a versatile collection of job types. You can do everything from selling cars to repairing them or even working the production line.
As for personal and professional development, there will be several avenues to enhance various skills. The industry is ever-changing, so there is plenty of room to adapt and use new technology.
As a massive sector, you can even attend international exhibitions to connect with others, share insights and expand your knowledge.
Vehicles are expensive to buy, run and maintain, so people working in this industry can benefit from highly-attractive salaries. Generally speaking, you may find it easier to get one foot in the door than other industries.
This factor will depend on the role, but if you have the willpower to learn, a keen interest, and excellent knowledge of cars, you may find an entry-level position that doesn’t require advanced qualifications.
However, working in the automotive industry can be a promising move for graduates, as evident when Jaguar welcomed record numbers.
Finally, the automotive industry is an excellent choice for people with strong people skills. You can have comfort knowing that your work has provided others with an exciting purchase or helped them get back on the road.
Whether you work directly with customers or in the background, you will impact their lives.
Your Career Path Options
Now that we’ve provided some background into why you may want to work in the industry, it’s time to look at the different career paths you can pursue.
There are various options to suit your personality, preference, and experience, so let’s dive in and see some of the best possibilities!
Auto Mechanic
Let’s start with one of the most apparent careers. The fundamental auto mechanic! Mechanics may specialize in a particular area, but their role is often similar.
Mechanics use a wide range of body shop equipment to restore a vehicle to a factory standard. A mechanic works with every inch of the vehicle’s exterior and interior to ensure it works correctly.
Their duties usually involve carrying out repairs, performing scheduled servicing, replacing faulty parts, and fulfilling general maintenance.
Several qualities are needed to be a car mechanic, including analytical thinking and practical skills.
Car Detailer
A car detailer is different from a mechanic as they focus more on deep cleaning a vehicle and not on repairs.
A detailer may wash, vacuum, wax, or polish a car, and they may also apply a high-end coating to the vehicle’s paintwork, such as ceramic coating.
Detailers primarily deal with a car’s visual appearance. Their duties can include dent repairs and touch-up painting, but they usually don’t work on advanced repairs.
Salesperson
If you love cars but don’t quite consider yourself a handy person, then being a salesperson may be more suited to you.
As a salesperson, you will be working directly with customers to convince them to buy a vehicle.
You will need good people skills, strong knowledge of current stock, and the ability to push people into customers.
Vehicle Inspector
Vehicles are sophisticated machines that can be safety hazards if misused or have faulty parts. Therefore, they are heavily regulated worldwide with strict laws and regulations.
A vehicle inspector is there to thoroughly inspect the vehicle to identify faults, ensure it meets safety standards and recommend repairs.
They will ensure that the car works as intended and is safe to drive, preventing breakdowns and severe accidents.
Driving Instructor
People have to learn to drive somewhere! The role of a driving instructor is straightforward to explain.
Instructors teach people to drive correctly and safely within the laws and guidelines, ensuring they know the rules.
Being an instructor can be gratifying to watch people pass from your teaching while also preventing bad drivers from getting onto the roads.