Should I be a mechanic?

If you...

• like working with your hands and tinkering with cars

• like the idea of doing your own repairs so you don't have to pay someone else to do it

...perhaps becoming a mechanic might be an interesting career choice for you!

Mechanics fix automobiles and perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires.

Mechanics also:

• Diagnose and fix problems

• Repair or replace worn parts such as break pads

• Explain automotive problems and repairs to clients

• Familiarize themself with the newer electronic systems

• Maintain records of jobs completed

Most mechanics work at car dealerships, service shops, and gas stations. There is also a percentage of mechanics who are self-employed.

To hear an audio version of the chart above, click the play button on the audio player below:

The United States of America

As of 2021, the average pay for a mechanic in the 🦅 United States 🦅 is $46,800 per year. The hourly salary is $22.54. Depending on where you live, your experience, and your education, you can make up to $75,100 per year.

To hear an audio version of the chart above, click the play button on the audio player below:

Canada

As of 2021, the average pay for a mechanic in 🍁 Canada 🍁 is $60,791 per year. The hourly salary is $31.17. Depending on where you live, your experience, and your education, you can make up to $81,015 per year.

You'll love it if you...

• like working with your hands.

• love cars and tinkering.

• are a problem-solver.

• like to stay busy.

You might not love it if you...

• don't like getting dirty.

• like a quiet work environment.

• don't want your safety at risk

• don't occasionally like working long hours.

Which person is best suited to be a mechanic?

A. 👱 Gary, who often spends his free time at his uncle's ranch tending to the horses because he would rather be outdoors in nature than indoors.

B. 👩‍🦰 Bernice, who spends her Saturdays and Sundays at her uncle's garage working the front desk because she likes a clean and organized work environment.

C. 👩🏾‍🦳 Danielle, who grew up around cars and would hang out with her dad in the garage and hand him the tools. She likes fixing things and working with her hands. She also has no problem getting a little dirty.

D. 👨🏾‍🦱 Marcus, who spends most of his time in the local library reading about how to put cars together. He has a great idea for a new fuel-efficient car, but he really doesn't like a loud work environment and hates getting his hands dirty.

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Are you ready to become a mechanic?