How to Be Apprentice Mechanic - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 14, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Apprentice mechanics are essential to the automotive industry, as they are responsible for providing support to experienced mechanics, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. This process has a cause and effect relationship, as the presence of apprentice mechanics enables skilled mechanics to complete their duties more efficiently. As a result, the automotive industry benefits from increased productivity, faster turnaround times, and improved customer service. Furthermore, apprentice mechanics gain valuable experience and knowledge that can be applied to future jobs, making them well-rounded professionals.

Steps How to Become

Get an Education. The first step to becoming an Apprentice Mechanic is to get an education. You can either go to a trade school or attend a community college and get a degree in automotive technology.
Get Certified. Most employers want apprentices to have some kind of certification. You can become certified through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Find an Apprenticeship. Once you have your education and certification, you will need to find an apprenticeship program. You can find programs at local automotive shops or through unions like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).
Complete the Program. Apprenticeships typically last two to four years, depending on the type of program you are enrolled in. During this time, you will be expected to learn all aspects of the trade, from diagnosing problems to performing repairs.
Get Licensed. After you complete your apprenticeship, you will need to get a license from your state in order to practice as a mechanic.
Find a Job. Once you have a license, you will be able to find employment as an Apprentice Mechanic. You may want to start by looking for job openings in your area or by contacting local automotive shops.

Apprentice mechanics must have the dedication, determination and skill to become skilled and capable. To achieve this, they must undergo comprehensive hands-on training, attend technical classes and seminars, and gain experience working with experienced mechanics. Through this process, apprentices can develop the technical knowledge, problem-solving aptitude and manual dexterity necessary to become a successful mechanic. As a result, they can progress from an apprentice to a fully qualified mechanic, capable of tackling a variety of repairs with confidence and accuracy.

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Job Description

Diagnose mechanical problems and determine the necessary repairs to be made.
Perform maintenance and repair services on vehicles, such as changing oil, lubricating parts, and replacing worn parts.
Diagnose and repair electrical and electronic system issues.
Inspect vehicle components to ensure they meet safety standards and are in good working condition.
Test vehicle systems and components to ensure they are functioning properly.
Follow service procedures and instructions from senior mechanics or supervisors.
Use diagnostic tools and equipment to identify mechanical issues.
Maintain accurate records of service and repairs.
Perform preventive maintenance tasks, such as changing oil or checking fluid levels.
Communicate with customers to provide information on servicing or repairs needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of basic hand tools and power tools
Ability to read and understand technical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints
Knowledge of automotive systems and components
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical problems
Ability to use diagnostic and testing equipment
Ability to use computer software related to vehicle maintenance
Ability to use precision measuring instruments
Knowledge of safety procedures and practices
Knowledge of inspection and repair procedures
Good communication skills

Having a strong mechanical aptitude is an essential skill for an Apprentice Mechanic. This skill involves a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of mechanics, such as how components and systems interact with each other. In addition, having good problem-solving skills and being able to think logically and quickly in order to diagnose and repair problems is essential.

Being able to work with small tools, read and interpret diagrams, and have a good level of physical fitness are all important skills for an Apprentice Mechanic. Finally, having a strong understanding of safety protocols, such as proper use of protective equipment and safe work practices, is essential to ensure the safety of both the mechanic and those around them. These skills combined help ensure that the Apprentice Mechanic can provide quality and efficient service to their customers.

Apprentice Paralegal, Apprenticeship Assessor, and Apprentice Photographer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working on cars?
What kind of maintenance and repair work have you done in the past?
What makes you interested in becoming an apprentice mechanic?
How do you stay up to date on the latest automotive technology?
Describe a time you had to troubleshoot a difficult problem with a vehicle.
How do you handle a situation when a customer is unhappy with the work that has been done?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple projects?
What safety precautions do you take when working on cars?
What tools and equipment do you find most useful in your work?
How do you ensure that all work is done properly and to the highest standard?

Common Tools in Industry

Socket Wrench Set. A set of wrenches with different sized sockets used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. (Eg: Tightening a brake caliper bolt)
Torque Wrench. A wrench used to tighten nuts and bolts to a specific torque. (Eg: Tightening a spark plug to the correct torque)
Screwdriver Set. A set of screwdrivers with different heads used to drive screws into place. (Eg: Fastening a license plate)
Wiring Pliers. Pliers used to cut and strip wire insulation. (Eg: Stripping a spark plug wire)
Pliers Set. A set of pliers used to grip or hold various shapes and sizes of objects. (Eg: Removing a stuck bolt)
Allen Wrench Set. A set of wrenches with hexagonal shaped ends used to tighten or loosen hexagonal nuts and bolts. (Eg: Tightening a distributor cap bolt)
Hammer. A tool used to drive nails into place or to break apart objects. (Eg: Breaking apart a stuck exhaust manifold)
Multi-Meter. An electronic device used to measure voltage, current, and resistance. (Eg: Testing an alternator for proper voltage output)

Professional Organizations to Know

Automotive Service Association
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Automotive Technicians Network
International Automotive Technicians Network
Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association
Society of Automotive Engineers
National Automobile Dealers Association
Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association
Professional Automotive Training Council
Automotive Management Institute

We also have Apprenticeship Liaison Officer, Apprenticeship Instructor, and Apprenticeship Administrator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Automotive Technician. A skilled professional who inspects, diagnoses, and repairs vehicles.
Lubrication System. The system that maintains a lubricant film between two surfaces to reduce friction and wear.
Ignition System. The system in a vehicle that provides the spark necessary to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber.
Fuel System. A system that stores and delivers fuel to an engine.
Brake System. A system of components used to slow or stop a vehicle.
Suspension System. A system of parts that supports the vehicle and keeps it stable during turns and braking.
Electrical System. The system that supplies electricity to the vehicle's electrical components.
Cooling System. A system of components that keeps the engine from overheating.
Steering System. The system of parts that enables the driver to control the direction of the vehicle.
Exhaust System. The parts of a vehicle that control and direct exhaust gases away from the driver and passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are necessary to become an Apprentice Mechanic?

To become an Apprentice Mechanic, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and basic mechanical knowledge.

How long does it take to become a qualified Apprentice Mechanic?

It typically takes four to five years to become a qualified Apprentice Mechanic, depending on the specific trade.

What tasks do Apprentice Mechanics typically perform?

Apprentice Mechanics typically perform basic maintenance and repair tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, brake repairs, tire rotations, and engine diagnostics.

What type of work environment do Apprentice Mechanics work in?

Apprentice Mechanics typically work in automotive repair shops and garages, as well as industrial and manufacturing plants.

What is the average salary of an Apprentice Mechanic?

The average salary of an Apprentice Mechanic is around $30,000 per year.

Web Resources

Apprenticeship - Service Mechanic Certificate - All College majors.missioncollege.edu
Maintenance Mechanic/Millwright Apprentice | Gateway Technical www.gtc.edu
How To Become An Automotive Apprentice - Southern Careers Institute scitexas.edu