MANUFACTURING, ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY AND TRADES
Automotive
DO YOU LOVE CARS? LIKE TO DRIVE?
Check out a career in Automotive.

What is it?
Automotive service involves inspecting, fixing and maintaining various components that keep a car working properly, including the engine, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, tires and heating and air conditioning. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the national organization that administers the ASE Certification that all auto technicians must pass to work in the industry.
What will I do?
An auto technician performs diagnostics, often using computerized equipment, to identify the problem. You will follow a checklist to make sure all related parts are examined to pinpoint if something is not working. Many times just basic maintenance is required, like replacing tires, worn brake pads or changing the oil. For major issues with the engine, transmission, brakes, or other critical parts, certain parts must be removed and repaired.

Leads to these jobs:
- Automotive Diagnostician
- Automotive Service Technician
- Auto Shop Owner
- Mobile Electronics Installer
- Service Writer
- Tire Changer

Is this for me?
- Customer service
- Technical aptitude
- Likes to work with hands
- Problem solver
- Detailed-oriented
Employer Spotlight: MIDWEST AUTO SERVICE
Midwest Auto Service is a locally owned automotive repair service company based in Morris, IL. We provide excellent service in every aspect of auto repair and servicing.
Our auto technicians possess extensive knowledge of a wide range of specialties, and are ASE Certified and factory trained, with many years of experience.
In-Demand Occupations in Illinois
Tire Repairer and Changer
- Education Level: High School
- Median Salary: $27,874
- Job Growth Over Next 10 Years: 1%
- Job Openings Projected Over Next 10 Years: 3,930
Automotive Body Repairer
- Education Level: High School
- Median Salary: $46,047
- Job Growth Over Next 10 Years: 4%
- Job Openings Projected Over Next 10 Years: 7,180
Automotive Service Technician
- Education Level: Associate Degree
- Median Salary: $41,626
- Job Growth Over Next 10 Years: 4%
- Job Openings Projected Over Next 10 Years: 30,050
Diesel Engine Mechanic
- Education Level: Associate Degree
- Median Salary: $51,660
- Job Growth Over Next 10 Years: 9%
- Job Openings Projected Over Next 10 Years: 9,600
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic
- Education Level: Associate Degree
- Median Salary: $58,599
- Job Growth Over Next 10 Years: 8%
- Job Openings Projected Over Next 10 Years: 2,870
Source – Illinois Department of Employment Security, 2019
ARCHITECTURE, MANUFACTURING AND AUTOMOTIVE @ JJC
Students learn every aspect of automotive service and repair in JJC’s 18,000-square foot automotive building with a state-of-the-art automotive service shop using modern equipment and technology. Students spend more than 500 hours repairing actual customer vehicles using school-owned tools, while gaining valuable work experience that employers find desirable.
Learn more at www.jjc.edu/academics
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PURSUING AUTOMOTIVE
talk to your school counselor or teachers about what next steps to take.
