Two Can't-miss Automotive Jobs

While the economy slowly makes its way back up to a slightly better place, many people still look for jobs that just aren't there, and automotive jobs are no different. College and high school graduates are leaving school and working several jobs just to be able to pay off the school loans they took out in order to go to school. The automotive field suffered major cutbacks in the wake of cost-cutting efforts, making factory production work far less lucrative than it once was. So, what's an aspiring car nut to do?

Automotive modification specialist

Although the title doesn't technically exist, the position certainly does. Even in the current economy, vehicle owners spend large amounts of money modifying their cars to suit their own personalities. This automotive job may actually be done at a car dealership, where the prospective specialist would be responsible for meeting with vehicle owners to offer them dealer-installed options on either new or used vehicles. Other facets of this position that are more amenable to self-employment include the actual process of installing aftermarket modifications onto customer-owned vehicles. While in a sales capacity, you only need some automotive knowledge and a little bit of sales training, you'll have to learn auto repair to properly perform vehicle modifications. This may include installing engine performance items, aftermarket wheels and tires, or even custom painting. The best way to prepare for jobs in this field is through post-high school training.

Driving Instructor

Being a driving instructor may be a nerve-wracking position to be in, but as more and more people become safety conscious, the need for professional driving instructors who can not only teach new drivers, but retrain experienced drivers, as well, will almost certainly increase. Being a driving instructor is also a relatively inexpensive way to start up your own business, as well. To get started, all you need is a specially-equipped car in which to train drivers, some road cones to help them learn their maneuverability, and of course the necessary permits and licenses in your community.

As the technology of the automotive industry shifts, the need for certain professions will become less and less necessary. The field of automotive collision repair, automotive factory work, and even engine repair are almost certain to be contracting fields, growing smaller every year as cars become more resilient to damage and are increasingly built with computers and robots. While these changes may not effect today's generation of automotive pros, future generations may find that the same jobs their parents did just don't exist any more.