Independent Garage

Light vehicle master technicians are responsible for diagnosing and resolving the most challenging and time-sensitive problems.

Duties may vary slightly from employer to employer but tend to include:

• Examining vehicles to determine malfunctions using appropriate automotive technology and diagnostic equipment
• Assisting other technicians in developing their skills and competencies by providing technical support and coaching
• Liaison with customers
• Testing and adjusting repaired systems to manufacturers’ standards
• Developing investigative strategies
• Disseminating technical information
• Providing technical support to manufacturers’ technical departments

As a master technician you will need to demonstrate:

• Excellent practical skills
• The ability to work quickly with attention to detail
• The ability to work without supervision and guide other team members
• Excellent communication skills
• The ability to write technical reports
• A reasonable level of fitness and normal colour vision
• A high level of technical knowledge and skills
• Good time management
• Good leadership skills
• An ability to solve problems
• Good liaison skills (resolving technical issues with technical departments)

Master technicians would normally progress into this role after experience as light vehicle diagnostic technicians. You will require a high level of technical understanding and possess high technical skill levels. To become qualified in the role you will need to complete a level 4 diploma for automotive master technicians.

To do this you will need to have competently completed your level 3 diagnostic technician training and have 5 years experience working within the industry at a high level. It would be advantageous were you to have some leadership or management skills as you will be expected to guide other team members who are developing their technical skills further.

You can also complete your Automotive Technician Accreditation at Light Vehicle Master Technician level, for more information on this please see ATA Master Tech.

 

Qualifications

IMI Awards

Level 4 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles (QCF)

Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies for Master Technicians (QCF)

Please note: These figures are meant as a guide only and may vary from employer to employer and may be dependent on the geographical area.

Most technicians work 40 hours a week from Monday to Saturday. This may include some shift and overtime work. You will carry out the majority of your work in a workshop environment. Some tasks may be physically demanding although you will use lifting equipment to move heavy parts.

Salary:

• Once qualified, a master technician can expect to earn in the region of between £25,000-£45,000

There may be opportunities for shift and overtime pay depending on your employer. You may also be eligible for holiday entitlement, company pension and private healthcare schemes.

Often you would progress onto this level via your employer; however the following routes are also available:

• Train at work, in a dedicated training facility managed by the employer; many manufacturers offer apprenticeship programmes that involve training at specially equipped centres
• Study on day release at local colleges or with training providers whilst in employment
• Attend college, or a private training provider who will organise work placements

Progression from:

• Light Vehicle Diagnostic Technician

Experience in:

• Level 3 Diagnostic Technician
• 5 years experience within the industry
• Leadership or management skills

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