Become an Electric Car Mechanic

Electric car mechanics perform a diverse range of duties that includes automotive service, maintenance and repair. Although the type of work is similar to working on gas or diesel powered vehicles, electric car technology is different as it involves high voltage battery packs as the primary source to generate power to the motor. Those working within this field must have training in working with hybrid vehicle technology, which encompasses concepts focusing on alternative energy sources. Preparation for becoming an electric car mechanic includes completing an educational program at a vocational or trade school that includes specialized coursework.

Steps

  1. Research the field of hybrid automotive technology to learn more about the industry to see if a position as an electric car mechanic is the right career for you.[1] If you are already working as an automotive technician and want to specialize in electric vehicles, consider additional training to advance in your present job.
  2. Assess your current skills and educational level to ascertain your strengths and weaknesses. Working with hybrid technology in the automotive industry requires a strong mechanical aptitude and reasoning skills in order to diagnose, service and do repair work with the more advanced components on electric vehicles.
  3. Decide what type of trade or vocational educational program that you want to enroll in. Training for working on hybrid vehicles and electric cars is available at trade and technical schools as well as some community colleges.
  4. Check out several websites for vocational training programs focusing on hybrid vehicle technology and electric cars. Thoroughly read about the available programs and request to have additional information sent to you.
  5. Visit some of the school campuses and arrange to meet with those that provide instruction on hybrid vehicle technology and electric cars. The visit will help to clarify the process and pick the best program for your needs.
  6. Determine whether your goals are to attend a basic 6 month program or more formal, in-depth training that may include certification. Acquiring the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification will give you an additional edge when applying for a job.[2]
  7. Consider the possibility of working toward an associated degree. If a management position or owning your own service and repair shop is your eventual goal, then the additional coursework in a 2 year program that includes business skills is a good choice.
  8. Contemplate the possible option of an apprenticeship or on-the-job training program. There are automotive service facilities and dealerships that may provide interested and enthusiastic individuals with paid training and education as an electric car mechanic.
  9. Confirm your choices for vocational programs you are interested in and formally apply for admission. Depending on when you apply and available openings for student, you may want to consider applying to more than one school.[3]
  10. Contact the school that you will be attending to learn more about financial aid that may be available. Many trade and technical schools as well as community colleges also offer scholarships.[4]
  11. Consider obtaining additional certification that may be required by some automotive manufacturers when doing repair and service work on their vehicles. Attend your classes focusing on hybrid automotive technology, study, develop your skills and aptitudes and you will soon be prepared to become an electric car mechanic.[5]

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