Automotive Climate Control
Certificate
Curriculum code 1462
Course Requirements                    Automotive Technology Web site

This program prepares the student for an entry-level position in the automotive service industry doing climate control work.

Nature of Work—Automotive air-conditioning repairers install, convert (R-12 to 134A) air conditioning systems, and service all types of climate control systems. These workers require special training in federal and state regulations governing the handling and disposal of refrigerants.

Almost half of automotive service technicians work a standard 40-hour week, but nearly 30 percent work more than 40 hours a week. Many of those working extended hours are self-employed technicians. To satisfy customer service needs, some service shops offer evening and weekend service. Generally, service technicians work indoors in well-ventilated and lighted repair shops.

Related Job Titles—Automotive service technicians, auto mechanics.

Employment Outlook—Job opportunities in this occupation are expected to be very good for persons who complete automotive training programs in high school, vocational and technical schools, or community colleges. Persons with good diagnostic skills should have the best opportunities. For well-prepared people with a technical background, automotive service technician careers offer an excellent opportunity for good pay and the satisfaction of highly skilled work with vehicles incorporating the latest in high technology. However, persons without formal automotive training are likely to face competition for entry-level jobs.

Employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase about as fast as the average through the year 2010. Automobile mechanics is one of 50 occupations expected to provide the most job openings each year in the state, About 1,420 job openings are expected annually. The growing complexity of automotive technology necessitates service by skilled workers, contributing to the growth in demand for highly trained technicians.

Employment growth will continue to be concentrated in motor vehicle dealerships and independent automotive repair shops. Many new jobs will also be created by development of alternative-fueled and hybrid vehicles. Jobs also will be created in retail operations that offer after-warranty repairs, such as oil changes, brake service, general engine service, and other minor repairs generally taking less than four hours to complete. Changes in economic conditions have little effect on the automotive repair business. When the economy is weak, people are less likely to buy new cars. Instead, they maintain their current cars. When the economy is strong people take more trips and put more wear on their cars. However, during a downturn, employers may be more reluctant to hire inexperienced workers. Nationally, the median wage for auto technicians is $2,460 per month ($14.19 an hour). Half of all auto technicians earn between $1,790 and $3,340 per month ($10.33 to $19.25 per hour). The median wage for Chicagoland area is $17.20 an hour.
Many experienced technicians employed by automotive dealers and independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor cost charged to the customer. Under this method, weekly earnings depend on the amount of work completed. Employers frequently guarantee commissioned mechanics and technicians a minimum weekly salary.

For job listing and job placement assistance, contact the Job Placement Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, (708) 974-5737.