Automotive Mechanic: What is the cost of hiring?

What is an auto mechanic?

An auto mechanic (also known in the UK as a vehicle mechanic or car mechanic) repairs and maintains different types of vehicles in a workshop environment. These may include cars, small trucks, vans and motorcycles. To achieve this, they perform diagnostic tests to identify faults using a combination of hand tools and computer software.

Why recruit an auto mechanic?

Auto mechanics build customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing excellent vehicle maintenance and repairs. Businesses may need to recruit an auto mechanic when customer demand increases, when a fleet grows or when existing team members lack the capacity to handle urgent repair needs.

Contributions of a great auto mechanic:

• Diagnosing and repairing a wide range of mechanical faults in vehicles
• Using specialist tools and diagnostic equipment to identify and fix issues
• Providing excellent customer service, including car maintenance advice
• Maintaining a safe and compliant working environment in line with regulations

Defining your recruitment needs for an auto mechanic

Auto mechanics are typically employed on a full-time or part-time permanent basis by vehicle workshops and repair shops. They may also work on a freelance basis for individual car owners, particularly if they collect classic cars and require someone with specialised knowledge. Businesses with occasional or highly specific repair needs, such as servicing heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), may also benefit from engaging specialist mechanics. Determining the type of employment, the scope of work and the available budget can help target the right candidate for the job.

What are the types of auto mechanic?

Auto mechanics can specialise in working with particular types of vehicle or repair. Common types of auto mechanics include:

• Auto body mechanic: focusing on repairing vehicle exteriors, body panels and paintwork
• Heavy goods vehicle mechanic: maintaining and repairing lorries and other HGVs
• Race car mechanic: servicing and optimising vehicles used in motorsport
• Diesel mechanic: specialising in diesel engines for cars, vans and trucks

When writing your auto mechanic job description, consider including some or all of the following keywords to improve the visibility of your job posting. These are the most popular search terms leading to clicks on auto mechanic jobs, according to Indeed data:

• Mechanic
• HGV mechanic
• HGV
• Apprenticeship
• Vehicle technician
• Maintenance
• Automotive
• Car sales
• HGV technician

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Where to find an auto mechanic

To find the right auto mechanic for your business, consider trying out a few different recruitment strategies:

• Professional networking events: attending trade shows, exhibitions and industry meetups can connect employers with experienced mechanics and technicians
• Vocational training and apprenticeship programmes: partnering with local colleges, City & Guilds centres or apprenticeship schemes can provide access to qualified candidates entering the trade
• Trade associations: organisations such as the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) offer job boards and networking opportunities for certified mechanics
• Local advertising: posting job adverts in local newspapers or community boards can attract candidates from the surrounding area

Post your job online: try posting your auto mechanic job on Indeed to find and attract quality auto mechanic candidates.

Skills to look for in an auto mechanic

A successful auto mechanic candidate will typically have the following skills and competencies, which may be gained through a variety of experiences, training or education:

• Diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults in vehicles
• Scheduling and prioritising repair and maintenance work
• Using tools and equipment safely in compliance with workshop safety standards
• Performing preventative maintenance by identifying parts likely to fail
• Making precise adjustments to components, including suspension alignment and shock or spring settings
• Carrying out repairs or part installations in confined workshop spaces, such as underneath vehicles

Writing an auto mechanic job description

Now that you know the key skills, salary expectations, popular jobseeker search terms and recruitment insights for an auto mechanic, you’re ready to write a job description.

An auto mechanic job description typically includes a compelling summary of the role, a detailed list of duties and responsibilities and the required and preferred skills for the position. You may also want to include information about your company culture, benefits and perks to attract candidates to your open role.

Ready to get started? See our full guide for writing auto mechanic job descriptions.

Interviewing auto mechanic candidates

Strong candidates for auto mechanic positions will be confident answering questions regarding:

• Adhering to health and safety regulations in a workshop or repair shop environment
• Communicating technical issues clearly to customers
• Diagnosing common vehicle faults such as overheating or brake issues
• Using specialist diagnostic tools and software to identify issues
• Managing urgent or complex repairs while maintaining quality standards

Need help coming up with interview questions? See our list of auto mechanic interview questions for examples (with sample answers).