Mechanic
Fix cars, motorbikes and other vehicles to make sure they work well and are safe for people to drive.
Also known as: motor vehicle technician, motor mechanic, car mechanic
About the job
A day in the life – Mechanic
What it's like
You would fix cars, motorbikes and other vehicles to make sure they work well and are safe for people to drive.
You would repair and service cars, vans, motorbikes, lorries and coaches.
You’d work on all the mechanics and electrics, from engines and exhaust systems to air-conditioning and security.
You would:
Find faults
Tell customers if repairs are needed and how important they are
Work out the estimated time and cost for jobs
Do repairs and replace damaged parts
Roadtest the vehicle to check the repair work
Fit and service accessories like radios and alarms
Carry out standard servicing and checks
As an experienced technician, you could do MOT tests or convert standard engines to liquid petroleum gas (LPG). You might also work on electric and hybrid vehicles.
It would be important to be aware of health and safety regulations. And you’d need to keep up to date with vehicle developments, especially new engine types and electronics.
Hours
You would usually work around 40 hours a week, Monday to Saturday. You may have to work shifts, including weekends, and you may sometimes work overtime. Some garages have an on-call system, and some heavy vehicle garages only service vehicles at night.
Environment
If your employer deals with breakdowns, you may work in all weather conditions.
Travel
If your employer deals with breakdowns, you may have to travel long distances.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Transport Engineering and manufacturing Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- vehicle maintenance
- automotive engineering
- electronic components
- automotive industry
- mechanics
- vehicle systems
- power tool operation
- diagnostic tools
- microsoft teams
- public utility
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- resourceful
- observation
- listening
- attention to detail
- filtering
- implementing ideas
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Physics
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Electronics
Skills for Work: Automotive Skills
You must complete a Modern Apprenticeship to gain relevant work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in light or heavy vehicle maintenance and repair (SVQ level 2/3).
You do not need formal qualifications to start an apprenticeship but many employers look for a good general education (SCQF level 4/5). You usually have to complete an aptitude test prior to an apprenticeship.
Qualifications that demonstrate physical fitness and practical skills such as Skills for Work Automotive Skills (SCQF level 4).
Once in the job you may choose to work towards Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) from the Institute of the Motor Industry.
Once you are qualified, you will need a driving licence for most jobs.
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