Mechanic jobs in the automotive sector are usually concerned with the repair and maintenance of vehicles. The role can also be known as a vehicle technician, and restoration is another part of the job.

The engine, brakes, fuel system and gearbox are some of the parts mechanics routinely work on. It is part of the job to give the customer feedback on the vehicle’s condition and advise them honestly and accurately on further actions.

Working systematically is important to enable you to find problems. This requires a good knowledge of the systems you are investigating. You need to be technically orientated for this job. A good memory for fitting parts together is also helpful. The trickyest part is reassembling parts that you have taken apart to locate the problems, and this is where your training will kick in.

The job can be very messy, but you need to maintain a clean workshop and try to keep the parts clean. You need to know where all your tools are and avoid tripping hazzards.

Cars can throw up all sorts of different problems, so no two days are ever the same. You will do all kinds of jobs, from filling the wiper fluid to replacing a rusty fuel tank. More and more vehicles have complex computer systems controlling elements of the car. This means that you will often require training specifically for working on certain manufacturer’s cars.

If you would like to be a mechanic you could do an apprenticeship once you have finished your GCSEs or A levels. Having a passion for cars is required when carrying out this job as it has many challenges.

What salary to expect

At the outset of your mechanic training, and dependent on experience, it is likely that you will receive a salary of between £7,000 and £11,000. You can go on to earn a salary between £13,000 and £26,000 once you are fully qualified.