Automotive Electrician
Tasks & duties
Automotive electricians may do some or all of the following:
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discuss faults with customers
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use diagnostic equipment to locate electrical and electronic faults
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carry out tests to diagnose the faults
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record other potential faults the diagnostic test equipment tells them are likely to occur in the future
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repair and replace automotive electrical systems such as charging and starting systems
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repair and replace electronic systems such as engine management systems, airconditioning systems, ABS brakes, air bags, electronically controlled gearboxes and vehicle computers
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fix problems on instrument panels such as speedometers, and fuel and oil gauges
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install mobile entertainment systems such as car radios and CD players
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install car security systems
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carry out vehicle engine tune-ups
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ensure hazardous substances are disposed of appropriately and Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) requirements are met
Specialisations
Automotive electricians may choose to specialise in areas such as fuel injection systems, computer repairs or working on certain types of vehicles. They may also move into working in hydraulics or crash test dummy testing.
Skills & knowledge
Automotive electricians need to have:
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knowledge of electrical theory and circuit diagrams
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knowledge of automotive electronics
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knowledge of vehicle components
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knowledge of basic engineering
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knowledge of the basic mechanics of vehicles
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excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
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good communication skills
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good reading and writing skills
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strong computer skills
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the ability to work with small, delicate components
Entry requirements
To become an automotive electrician you need to complete an apprenticeship. These jobs do not usually require completion of secondary education, however further part-time study usually at Certificate III level, and on-the-job training offered as an apprenticeship, is required.
Secondary education
At least three years of secondary education with a good standard in English and maths is recommended. Other useful subjects include computer studies and physics as well as science, technical drawing and metalwork.
Tertiary education
A Certificate II in Automotive Electrical Technology. This qualification is part of the Automotive Retail, Service and Repair Training Package. It reflects the role of individuals who perform a range of tasks relating to installing, assembling and servicing electrical components and systems of motor vehicles in the automotive electrical installation, service and repair technology sector.
Training on the job
Automotive electricians may attend training courses on particular vehicles and new equipment.
Useful experience
Useful experience for automotive electricians includes electrical or mechanical work, computer work and any work involving vehicles.
Video
Electrical Mechanic - Try it for 5
from WA career Centre on you tube
Related courses
Automotive Electrics and Electronics
Automotive Engineering
For more information, please refer to myfuture.
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