Is Automotive Aftermarket A Good Career Path: 15 Best Paying Jobs [Complete Guide]

The automotive aftermarket is a great career choice for people who are interested in cars and enjoy working with their hands. There are many different types of jobs in the automotive aftermarket. People who work in the automotive aftermarket can expect to make a good salary and have a lot of job security.

There are many exciting and rewarding careers in the automotive aftermarket industry. However, not everyone knows if this is a good career path for them. The following article will discuss some of the pros and cons of working in the automotive aftermarket industry.

What is Automotive Aftermarket?

The automotive aftermarket is a term used to describe the industry that provides aftermarket parts and services for automobiles. The automotive aftermarket also includes services such as car detailing, window tinting, and car audio installation. The automotive aftermarket can be subdivided into four industries.

• The first is the replacement part industry which manufactures and sells new parts to replace worn, damaged, or broken original equipment.
• The second is the modification part industry which makes and sells new parts to improve the performance or appearance of vehicles.
• The third is the services industry which manufactures and sells repair tools and equipment to change the appearance of vehicles.
• The fourth is the training industry which teaches consumers how to perform minor repairs on their vehicles.

What is the Scope of Automotive Aftermarket?

The automotive aftermarket is a trillion-dollar industry, and it is projected to grow at a rate of 6.5% in 2022. This growth is being driven by the increasing number of vehicles on the road, the growing demand for replacement parts and accessories, and the expanding range of services offered by automotive aftermarket players.

The future of the automotive aftermarket looks bright, as technological advances are creating new opportunities for players in this space. For example, the rise of autonomous vehicles is expected to lead to an increase in demand for advanced sensors, software, and other components required for autonomous driving. In addition, the growing popularity of electric vehicles is opening up new opportunities for jobs in the automotive aftermarket that can provide services and products related to these vehicles.

Is Automotive Aftermarket a Good Career Path?

The automotive aftermarket is a great career path for someone who is interested in cars and wants to work with them on a daily basis. There are many different positions in the aftermarket, so no matter what your interests or skills are, you can find a job that’s perfect for you. You could work as a mechanic, technician, salesperson, or manager.

The pay and benefits of working in the automotive aftermarket are also great. Mechanics and technicians typically make good money, and they often receive health insurance and other benefits. Salespeople and managers may not make as much money as mechanics and technicians, but they still earn a good salary.

Benefits of Becoming an Auto Technician

The benefits of becoming an auto technician are plentiful. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that you will have a stable and well-paying career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, automotive technicians earn a median wage of $46,880 per year. But, with experience and additional training, you could easily make much more than that.

Another big benefit of being an auto technician is that you will have job security. Automotive technology is constantly evolving, so there will always be a need for skilled technicians. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of jobs for automotive technicians will grow by 6 percent over the next decade.

Finally, another great benefit of being an auto technician is that you will have opportunities for advancement. With experience and additional training, you could become a lead technician or even a service manager.

What’s the Difference Between a Technician and a Mechanic?

There is a common misconception that mechanics and technicians are one and the same. While there is some overlap in the skills required to do each job, there are distinct differences between the two professions.

Mechanics: do everything from performing routine maintenance to diagnosing and repairing complex problems. They must be able to work with a variety of tools and equipment, as well as understand how cars work inside and out.

Technicians: On the other hand, usually focus on one specific area of automotive repairs, such as engines or electrical systems. They may have less knowledge about how cars work as a whole, but they have more specialized skills in their area of expertise.

The 15 Best Paying Jobs in Automotive Aftermarket

1: Manufacturing Engineer (Average Annual Salary: $76,000)

A manufacturing engineer job in the automotive aftermarket is a great opportunity to work in a dynamic and ever-changing industry. As a manufacturing engineer, you would be responsible for designing and overseeing the manufacturing process of automotive parts and components. 

This is a great opportunity to use your engineering skills in a hands-on way and see your designs come to life. The automotive aftermarket is an exciting and ever-changing industry, making it a great place to work as a manufacturing engineer.

2: Mechanical Engineer (Average Annual Salary: $79,000)

Automotive aftermarket is a great place for a mechanical engineer to find a job. There are many different types of mechanical engineering jobs in the automotive aftermarket, and the opportunities are endless. A mechanical engineer can work on anything from engines to brakes to air conditioning systems.

The automotive aftermarket is always growing and changing, so a mechanical engineer can never get bored. There are always new challenges and new problems to solve. Automotive manufacturers are always coming out with new models, and the aftermarket needs engineers who can keep up with the latest technology.

A mechanical engineer who works in the automotive aftermarket can expect to have a lot of responsibility. He or she will be responsible for designing, testing, and manufacturing new products. A mechanical engineer in the automotive aftermarket also needs to be able to work with teams of people, so communication skills are essential.

3: Automotive Engineer (Average Annual Salary: $72,000)

An Automotive Engineer job in the automotive aftermarket is a great opportunity to use your engineering skills in the automotive industry. In this position, you would be responsible for developing new products and improving existing products in the aftermarket. 

This job can be challenging and rewarding, as you would work with a team of engineers to create innovative solutions that improve the quality and performance of vehicles. If you are looking for a career that allows you to use your engineering skills and knowledge, then an Automotive Engineer job in the automotive aftermarket may be right for you.

4: Continuous Improvement Engineer (Average Annual Salary: $74,000)

The automotive aftermarket is a vital and growing industry. Companies in this industry must continually improve their products and processes to stay competitive. A Continuous Improvement Engineer (CIE) is a key role in achieving this goal.

A CIE is responsible for creating and implementing process improvement initiatives. They work with teams across the company to identify ways to make operations more efficient and effective. This can include anything from reducing waste to improving quality control.

The CIE plays a critical role in helping companies achieve continuous improvement. They have the skills and knowledge necessary to make improvements that impact the entire organization.

5: Factory Manager (Average Annual Salary: $95,000)

This job involves overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing process, from production planning to quality control. It’s a great opportunity to develop your skills in leadership and problem-solving.

A factory manager must be able to multitask and stay organized in order to meet deadlines. In addition, they must be able to effectively communicate with their team, as well as customers and suppliers. A background in engineering or manufacturing is generally required for this type of position.

6: Machine Operator (Average Annual Salary: $32,000)

The automotive aftermarket is a booming industry that is always in need of qualified machine operators. As a machine operator in the automotive aftermarket, you would be responsible for running various machines that are used to create or assemble components and products. This is a hands-on position that requires attention to detail and a dedication to quality. If you have experience in manufacturing or assembly, then you might be a great fit for this type of job.

7: Line Technician (Average Annual Salary: $38,000)

The automotive aftermarket is a big business, and there are many opportunities for people who want to work in this industry. One of the most important jobs in the automotive aftermarket is that of a line technician. A line technician is responsible for installing and repairing parts on vehicles. 

This job can be very challenging, but it is also very rewarding. If you are interested in becoming a line technician, here are some things you need to know:

• You need to know that a line technician is not an entry-level position. You will need to have some experience working with cars before you can become a line technician. 
• You should also be familiar with the tools and equipment used in this profession.
• The thing to know about being a line technician is that you will need to be able to work independently.

8: Manufacturing Associate (Average Annual Salary: $32,000)

The Manufacturing Associate job in the automotive aftermarket is a position that is responsible for the manufacturing and assembly of products. This may include putting together parts, assembling products, and ensuring that everything is in working order.

The Manufacturing Associate may also be responsible for packing and shipping products. This position typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as some experience in a manufacturing or production environment. The Manufacturing Associate job in the automotive aftermarket can be a great way to start your career in the automotive industry.

9: Maintenance Technician (Average Annual Salary: $47,000)

The main duties of a maintenance technician include inspecting and repairing machines, cleaning equipment, and ordering parts and supplies.

To be successful in this job, you need to have strong mechanical skills, as well as experience with electrical systems and hydraulics. It’s also important to be able to work independently and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a maintenance technician in the automotive aftermarket, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself. Make sure you have a strong foundation in mechanics by taking classes or completing an apprenticeship program.

10: Production Worker (Average Annual Salary: $30,000)

The automotive aftermarket industry is always looking for qualified production workers. A production worker’s job in the automotive aftermarket can be very demanding, but it can also be very rewarding. There are many different types of production jobs in the automotive aftermarket, and each one offers its own unique set of challenges and rewards.

No matter which type of production job you choose, you will need to be able to work efficiently and effectively under pressure. The automotive aftermarket is a fast-paced industry, and if you want to succeed in it, you need to be able to keep up with the demands of the job.

If you are willing to work hard and are excited about the prospect of a career in the automotive aftermarket, then a production worker job is right for you.

11: Electronic Assembler (Average Annual Salary: $31,000)

There are many different types of Electronic Assembler jobs in the automotive aftermarket. Some assemblers may work on the electrical wiring in a car, while others may work on the electronic controls and systems. The job of an electronic assembler is to put together all of the different electronic components in a car. This may include anything from the ignition system to the sound system.

Working as an electronic assembler in the automotive aftermarket can be a very rewarding career. Not only do you get to work with some of the latest technology, but you also get to see your hard work in action when you drive your car. If you are interested in a career as an electronic assembler, there are many schools that offer training in this field.

12: Catalog Content Team Member (Average Annual Salary: $56,000 )

Catalog Content Team Member job in the automotive aftermarket. The position is responsible for creating and managing product descriptions, images, and other content for the company’s online catalog. 

They will work with suppliers to get the most accurate and up-to-date information and ensure that the catalog is compliant with search engine optimization (SEO) best practices. The ideal candidate will have experience in copywriting, SEO, and product data management.

13: Parts Warehouse Team (Average Annual Salary: $33,579)

There is a Parts Warehouse Team Member job in the automotive aftermarket that is currently available. This position is responsible for stocking and organizing parts in the warehouse, as well as pulling and packing orders. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a warehouse setting, as well as knowledge of automotive parts. A successful applicant will be able to work independently, as well as part of a team.

14: Entry-Level Sales (Average Annual Salary: $60,176)

In most cases, you’ll be responsible for selling products and services to customers. This may include contacting potential customers, developing proposals, and negotiating contracts. It’s important to be able to build strong relationships with clients and have a good understanding of the products you’re selling.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in sales, the automotive aftermarket is a great place to start. With a growing industry and ample opportunity for advancement, the sky is the limit.

15: Car Manufacturing Technician (Average Annual Salary: $44,050)

In the automotive aftermarket, you could work as a car manufacturing technician. This is a position that involves building and testing new vehicles. You would also be responsible for repairing and maintaining older models. This is a fast-paced industry with plenty of opportunities for growth.

As a car manufacturing technician, you would need to have strong mechanical skills. You would also need to be able to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.

Education And Certification Requirments For A Career in Auto Parts OEM

Since there’s such a variety of varying occupations and positions, the educational qualifications required in this sector vary considerably. There are people who enter this field with only a high school diploma, but in a couple of cases, that might not be necessary.

Associates Degree. There are several associate degrees and certifications that are relevant to automotive technology. An associate degree in automotive technology is an outstanding starting point, but you can also pursue degrees in other fields, including engineering technology, automotive management, servicing technology, performance machining, welding, and other aspects related to automotive or engineering technology.

Bachelor’s Degree. If you’re a person who wants to further their career and have a rock-solid educational background to back it up, then a B.A. in engineering may seem beneficial in the automotive arena. You can also look into communications and business degrees that might work in the automotive area as well.

Master’s Degree. When it comes to the highest reaches of the salary range in the auto parts OEM sector, engineers are almost the only ones that dominate the market. The very best workers in these industries need to have a master’s level.

On-the-Job Training. The area of this field is important and requires to be addressed through training sessions. The experience and safety of the job must be learned through the practical experience once you’re employed. Aspects of the factory where you’ll be employed can only be learned by doing the job itself.

Job Specific Certifications. Different jobs may need that you continue your training and receive additional certification as your career progresses. Taking classes like welding, soldering, electrical engineering, automotive engineering, and a variety of other specialty fields might become part of your ongoing training.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Working in the Automotive Aftermarket?

Pros

On the plus side, auto manufacturing offers good job security. The industry is relatively recession-proof, and there is always a demand for qualified workers. It can also be a very rewarding field, offering opportunities for creativity and innovation. Additionally, auto manufacturing offers good pay and benefits packages.

Cons

However, there are some downsides to this career choice as well. It can be demanding and challenging work, with long hours often required. The industry can also be quite competitive, and advancement can be difficult to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Automotive Aftermarket Career Path

How to Become an Automotive Technician?

Many schools offer certification in specific areas of automotive repairs, such as engine repair or transmission repair. Once you have completed your training, it is important to get certified by an industry organization such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 

This certification will show employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job properly. It is also important to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and advances in the automotive industry so you can keep your skills sharp.

How many parts are sold by Aftermarket distributors? 

A study by the National Auto Parts Association in 2003 showed that a total of 35,000 different aftermarket parts were being used in American cars.

Is auto manufacturing a good career path? 

Many people wonder if this is a good field to get into. The answer is it depends on what you want to do. If you want to work on the assembly line and put cars together, then this might not be the best career for you. But if you want to work in engineering or design, then this could be a great choice.

How many jobs are available in auto manufacturing?

In the United States, there are about 1.5 million jobs in the automotive manufacturing industry. This number includes assembly line workers, engineers, and managers. The industry is expected to grow by about 8 percent in the next decade.

What Is the Highest Paying Job in Automotive?

The highest paying job in automotive is the CEO. The median salary for a CEO was $214,000 in 2016, according to Glassdoor. CEOs at automotive companies earn an average of 10 times more than the average worker.

Conclusion

Automotive aftermarket can be a great career path for those who are passionate about cars and want to work in a hands-on environment. There are many different types of jobs in the aftermarket, so there is something for everyone. 

The industry is growing rapidly, so there are plenty of opportunities for advancement. If you are interested in pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket, I encourage you to do your research and find a school that offers a program in this field.