In the UK, the automotive industry is in need of qualified individuals to fill valuable positions — a great sign for those looking to enter the workforce. “The motor industry is facing a significant and serious challenge when it comes to staffing,” said Ambi Singh, CEO of Easy2Recruit. “This shortage poses a direct threat to the UK’s automotive industry’s ability to innovate and compete on a global stage, especially in the shift towards sustainable and electric vehicles.”
For graduates who are considering the pursuit of a career within the automotive industry, there is no shortage of unique options out there, regardless of what your interests may be. Whether you crave creativity in your daily life or you’d like to focus on working with customers, there are a plethora of careers to explore.
From mechanic to classic car restoration
For graduates entering the workforce, hands-on careers can seem like the obvious choice. According to the Institute of The Motor Industry, there are about 23,000 job openings in the motor trades sector, recording the second-highest vacancy rate (just below accommodation and food services). Furthermore, it’s noted that most job openings (52%) seek vehicle technicians, mechanics, and electricians, which highlight “high demand for skilled labour.”
The importance of auto mechanics, for instance, cannot be understated, as they help ensure that vehicles are safe for the driver and the road. With that in mind, auto mechanics take on a variety of responsibilities, including routine maintenance to performing repairs or updates, checking tyre pressure, condition (and changing them when necessary), and providing customers quotes for the cost of work, to highlight just a few key duties.
According to Indeed, the national average salary for an auto mechanic in the UK is £30,047 per year, though it’s imperative to keep in mind that this figure can vary widely depending on the business. While it may not be as in-demand, considering a prospective career in the industry can be a fulfilling endeavour for individuals who have a great passion for a specific niche. Classic car restoration is just one consideration for those who are already enthusiasts of historical rides and enables individuals to restore a vintage vehicle to its natural beauty, whether working in a well-established workshop or starting a business of your very own.
Harnessing creativity through automotive design
For graduates who are more in touch with their creative side, there are several career opportunities within the design and engineering sector of the automotive industry. TechGig points out that automotive designers are “tasked with marrying aesthetics with functionality, crafting vehicles that captivate consumers while meeting stringent safety and performance standards.”
As a result, it’s stressed that this position requires creative thinking as well as a comprehensive understanding in regard to engineering principles, making it an ideal choice for those who are graduating with a qualification in engineering. Other key skills for this career include problem-solving, creativity, knowledge of vehicle design and project management skills — to highlight just a few.
Automotive designers take on a range of responsibilities depending on the project; broad responsibilities, however, typically involve identifying business opportunities for design ideas, collaborating with engineers and researchers, and creating layouts of auto components. Sketches, models, and prototypes will further play into the role, enabling designers to bring their ideas to life.
Regarding educational background, Indeed notes that acceptable bachelor’s degrees include those in industrial design, transportation design, as well as engineering and mechanical engineering with a minor in car design. While a bachelor’s degree is important when it comes to the knowledge needed for such a career path, earning a master’s degree in a subject such as automotive design (while not necessary) is a worthy consideration in order to gain a deeper understanding of the field.
Finding a path in sales
For graduates who wish to have a more social career, working in sales is a great path to pursue. According to Indeed, this profession is particularly ideal for those who enjoy interacting with others with a focus on providing good customer service. As an automotive salesperson, the goal is to assist customers in choosing the perfect vehicle that suits their individual needs, though there’s more to it than that.
Staying up-to-date on new models and features are essential aspects of the job, particularly when aiming to properly assist clients. Keeping up with trends is another must — for example, among adults in Great Britain surveyed by the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey (OPN) between September 22nd and October 3rd of 2021, 44% of all petrol, diesel, and hybrid drivers reported being ‘likely’ or ‘very likely’ to make the switch to an all-electric vehicle in the next ten years.
When taking into consideration a customer’s individual tastes as well as the direction of trends within the industry, a car salesperson can explore all of the options available. When helping a customer choose the best electric car, features are just one necessary element to take into consideration. Today’s top electric vehicles bring to light a variety of exciting car features, from remote engine starts to WiFi hotspots, as well as features that enhance safety such as lane departure warning and traction control.
While ratings and reviews of top models can reveal insight into how other consumers feel about the vehicles available, salespeople play a key role in giving customers an up-close and personal look at the options that align with their personal preferences. Those looking to make the job into a long-term career can advance to auto sales manager, which typically requires prior sales experience and involves managing salespeople while encouraging strategies in order to boost sales.
Conclusion
For graduates aspiring to enter the automotive sector, selecting the perfect career can be a daunting endeavour, especially when considering how in-demand certain positions are. Considering popular — and even unique — options that cater to your strengths can help, whether you choose a people-oriented career in sales or a creative option in automotive design.
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