A recent newspaper report made the point that most modern cars have more computer code in them than did the space shuttle that made the first moon landing. That is before we even get onto the issue of self-driving or autonomous cars. Anyone wanting to work in auto electrics should see this as a hugely beneficial thing from their point of view, because automotive electricians play a huge part in maintaining and repairing all the electrical and wiring components that are used in all types of cars, commercial vehicles and construction machinery. If you go into auto electrics, it's likely that there will be enough work for you to almost guarantee a job for life.

There are a number of very specific roles for people who work in auto electrics, with dedicated pathways in terms of training and career structure.

Type of work

Anyone working in auto electrics will need to fully understand the electrical systems of any type of vehicle that they are going to work with. This will mean they must have the ability to dismantle, remove and repair all the electronic components and elements of any car or truck.

They will also need to be fully trained and conversant with all types of diagnostic equipment which they will use in order to locate and solve problems.

They will be required to be able to adjust engine control systems and the timing of engines, and will also need to know how to do more traditional jobs such as testing and repairing alternators, generators, filter regulators and starter motors. They will also need to be familiar with fairly basic electrical items such as fuses, lambs and switches.

Training

Working in auto electrics is one of those areas where the more training someone has, and the more certificates and qualifications they have that are relevant to their work, the better. Depending upon which part of Australia someone works in, there may be more or fewer formal legal requirements in terms of becoming a qualified auto electrician.

Many people who work in auto electrics do so via a traditional route of being an apprentice, coupled with a high level of formal training, either done at college or online. Whilst that are normally no formal academic qualifications needed, an interest in the following areas is recommended: Mechanics, computers and electronics, maths and engineering and technology.

Whilst knowledge can be gained in all these areas, a number of other skills will need to be gained and developed over time. These normally relate to problem-solving skills for specific mechanical or electrical problems.

The skills needed for this job are pretty basic in one sense, in terms of being able to identify why something has come wrong and sorting out a solution to it. The skills are much more difficult in another sense, in that a high degree of technical knowledge is needed in order to support them.

Contact a provider of auto electrics services if you're interested in learning more about this valuable job.