If you love to tinker with your car, you’ve been self-taught, or love taking advantage of handed-down car knowledge, why not turn your passion into a lucrative career? You don’t necessarily need to be a mechanical genius to enjoy a career in the auto industry. There are plenty of off-the-line positions that keep you close to the cars you love. Whether you are looking for a position pairing renters with vacation vehicles or love to make things shine as a car detailer, there are many openings at places around the country, including
Let’s take a look at a few jobs in the auto industry that are the perfect fit for car lovers.
Car Detailer
If you love to bring things back to life, you may enjoy being a car detailer. Large dealerships are always looking for help in the detailing department. This position isn’t likely to make you rich, but it can be a great way to be around and handle a variety of cars, including sports models, trucks, and foreign vehicles. You need to have an eye for detail and enjoy working with the public. Your aim should be to bring a vehicle back to looking new using cleaning, steaming, and polishing techniques. with an eye for detail can often make upwards of $15 per hour.
Tire Technician
One of the most important aspects of vehicle performance is the tires. As a tire technician, you will assist your customers in choosing the right tires for their vehicle, recommend upgrades, educate your customers about tire maintenance, and perform tire service. The starting salary for a tire technician is approximately $30,000 a year.
Vehicle Inspector
Vehicle Inspectors work in many areas of the auto industry. From the factory floor to the used car lots across the country, vehicle inspectors are essential for road and driver safety. As a vehicle inspector, you will be critical to the process of to be on the road. You will get the chance to certify the different operating systems of a vehicle, make recommendations for repairs and alterations, and be involved in potential design renovations. The starting salary for a vehicle inspector is around $35,000 annually.
Auto Mechanic
Every engine has a story to tell, and as an auto mechanic, you can spend your days working under the hood or chassis of various vehicles. When working as a mechanic, you will be tasked with repairs, maintenance, performance improvement, and helping drivers to get the best experience out of their vehicles. As technology improves in the auto industry, you will continue to learn about the ways vehicles are transforming from gas engines to hybrids and electric engines. Auto mechanics are always in demand, and you can expect to make anywhere between $40,000 and $80,000 annually.
Tow Truck Operator
If you don’t want to be stuck in a design office or a garage to and trucks, you may prefer to get out on the road. As a tow truck operator, you can enjoy a continuous change in scenery and the chance to be a rescue worker. Your customers will always be happy to see you when they are stuck on the side of the road, and you can fulfill your desire to help people who need it the most. Tow truck operators that own their businesses can make over $100,000 a year.
Auto Designer
As an auto designer, you will have the chance to work directly with auto manufacturers. The primary is to develop the overall appearance and functionality of a vehicle. Auto designers control chosen fabrics, color coordination, placement of accessories, and external features that give a vehicle a unique look. Your creative skills will be used to integrate the functional, mechanical, and technical details seamlessly. With this position, you can expect a salary of upwards of $90,000.
Auto Engineer
If your interest in vehicle design is more technical, you may be better suited to an auto engineering career. Auto engineers are active in designing safety, operating, navigation, and control systems. Auto engineers follow the complete design process of a new vehicle and work on troubleshooting issues to ensure a safe and stylish vehicle design gets to the factory lines. Auto engineers average an $85,000 annual salary.
Process Engineer
If you have always been fascinated by the manufacturing process, becoming a process engineer could be a rewarding career for you. work with manufacturers to develop efficient and safe manufacturing systems, including assembly lines, robotics assembly, and finishing work of various vehicles. As a process engineer, you could participate in designing and developing new manufacturing processes and practices. You can expect a starting salary of over $85,000 annually with this position.
Auto Salesperson
If you want to help people find the right vehicle to suit their needs, you can have a profitable . You will get to know the intimate details of several brands of cars and become an expert in the elements of each style of vehicle. As a salesperson, you can take advantage of the endless opportunities to connect with customers, build trust for your brand, and pursue various sales commission bonuses. Your overall salary will depend on your level of ambition.
There are many ways to get on board for those who love the auto industry and have always dreamed of working in the field. Depending on your interest, your experience, and your education, you can become anything you like within the auto industry. The auto industry is waiting for you, from taking a part-time job adding a shine to existing cars as a detailer to running the design boards for a manufacturer’s latest models.