The automotive industry is changing. It’s always changing, but it’s changing fast now, and that means the jobs in the industry are changing, too. The age of the self-driving car has arrived, and that means that some of today’s auto jobs will be gone in a few years. Here are seven careers in the automotive industry you should consider for 2022 and beyond. And if you’re curious about how to get started on them, we’ve included some tips on training as well.
1. Car Detailer
As a car detailer, you must be a perfectionist. You are the person who makes sure a vehicle is in top condition for its owner. This is a great job for someone who enjoys working with their hands and has an eye for small details.
Car detailers are responsible for making sure pre-owned vehicles look new. This includes everything from washing and waxing to vacuuming and cleaning upholstery and trim. You may also perform minor touch-up work, such as buffing out scratches and blemishes or changing windshield wipers.
Most car detailers work in garages or dealerships, but some specialize in detailing high-end or classic cars or valeting vehicles at airports, hotels, or other special locations.
2. Car Rental Agent
Car rental agents work with customers to handle their needs and make sure they get the right vehicle. They are responsible for making sure vehicles are clean, in good working order, and ready to rent. If a customer has a problem with a vehicle, they must be able to handle it, or they will lose business.
Car rental agents may also be responsible for cleaning and detailing the vehicles as needed. They may also be responsible for basic maintenance tasks, like changing the oil or replacing windshield wipers. Some car rental agents have additional responsibilities, like picking up vehicles from off-site locations, dropping off rental cars at the airport, or delivering cars to other locations.
Being a car rental agent is perfect for someone who likes talking to people and has an interest in cars. The job does not require any special education or training, but it helps if you have experience with cars, selling, and customer service.
3. Tire Technician
Tire technicians do more than just change tires. They make sure vehicles have the right tires for the driving conditions and check the tread depth, pressure, and wear patterns. They also repair tires, balance wheels, rotate tires, and perform other maintenance tasks to ensure safe travel.
Tire technicians may work in attire stores or in the service department of a dealership or automotive repair shop. The job can be physically demanding, as it requires lifting heavy tires and kneeling frequently. It’s also sometimes dirty and messy because of tire residue.
Education: A high school diploma is usually required to apply for this position, but some employers require a vocational certification in auto mechanics.
Skills: Detail-oriented workers who are comfortable with physical labor are best suited for this job. Because they work with customers, tire technicians must also have strong communication skills and be able to explain technical concepts in easy-to-understand terms.
4. Vehicle Inspector
Vehicle inspectors are responsible for examining cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles as they come off the assembly line or when they’re being repaired. Vehicle inspectors look closely at each vehicle to confirm that it meets quality and safety standards and that it functions properly. A vehicle inspector’s job is to detect problems before the vehicle is given to the customer. To be an inspector, you need to take a vda 6.3 process audit training.
Vehicle inspectors spend much of their time looking for defects in a variety of components, including the chassis, brakes, cooling system, engine, transmission, and upholstery. They may conduct visual inspections or use sophisticated computer-based testing equipment to diagnose mechanical problems. They may also be required to perform basic maintenance tasks like changing the oil or replacing spark plugs.
5. Auto Instructor
Auto instructors give lessons on the road and in the classroom, testing new and prospective drivers to ensure that they have a good understanding of driving rules and techniques. They also educate students about how to operate specific types of vehicles, such as semi-trucks or motorcycles, and how to respond in emergency situations. Auto instructors are trained to teach individuals from all backgrounds and with various levels of skill.
6. Auto Electrician
An auto electrician is a car mechanic who specializes in the electrical components of vehicles. Their job is to make sure that everything from your headlights to your radio to your airbag system is functioning properly. They can also install more complicated electronics like car stereos and GPS systems.
7. Process Engineer
A process engineer oversees the manufacturing line and improves efficiency and productivity through automation. Process engineers work cross-functionally, collaborating with leadership, operations, maintenance, and other departments to ensure that processes run smoothly. They also create new systems or procedures to improve or replace old ones.
Process engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering; those who specialize in automotive process engineering focus on areas such as industrial or mechanical engineering.
With technology advancing as it does, there’s no reason to doubt its potential impact on the automotive industry. As engineers and designers come up with new ways to incorporate technological elements into vehicles, from GPS systems to self-driving capabilities, the car will look different in a few years. So if you’re thinking about a career in the auto industry, it might be wise to go with something that’s more akin to the future than not.
