Auto electrician
Auto electricians fit, service and repair the electrical systems in motor vehicles.
Also known as: Mechanical and electrical trim technician (MET)
- Starter salary£23,000 a year
- Experienced£38,000 a year
- Typical hours40 to 44 a week
What you'll do
As an auto electrician, you could:
- take readings, using a laptop or device connected to an engine's electronic control unit
- inspect and test wiring and electrical systems in vehicles
- find and fix faults
- refer to manufacturers' circuit diagrams and manuals
- fit new electrical parts to vehicles
- work on hybrid and electrical vehicle systems
- fill out repair sheets for customers, listing the work you have done
Working environment
You could work at a garage or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be noisy.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- problem-solving skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to work well with others
- persistence and determination
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a auto electrician
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could do a vehicle maintenance course that also covers auto electrical work. Courses like this could help you find a trainee position. They include:
- light vehicle maintenance and repair
- auto electrical and mobile electrical operations
- T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship, such as:
- Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Vehicle Damage, Mechanical, Electrical and Trim Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These take around 3 years to complete and are a mix of on-the-job training and learning off-site.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Direct application
You can apply for jobs as an auto electrician if you've got qualifications and experience in motor mechanics.
Experience of working with hybrid and electric vehicles will be useful.
Restrictions and requirements
You may need a driving licence, which might include LGV (lorries) or PCV (buses), depending on the vehicles you work with.
Career path and progression
With experience and further training, you could become:
- a workshop controller or manager
- an automotive or motorsport engineer
- a skills trainer
You might also start your own business.
Guides for this industry
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