Career Definition for a Toyota Automotive Service Technician
Toyota automotive service technicians are certified mechanics who work at Toyota, Lexus, and Scion dealerships. The career path of a Toyota automotive service technician may begin with basic auto maintenance at an apprenticeship or entry-level position, followed by promotion to mid-level or line technician and, eventually, master technician. Toyota dealerships promote the principle of 'Kaizen', which encourages employees to strive for continuous improvement through training and education. Toyota estimates that its automotive service technicians throughout the U.S. handle more than 200 million repair orders annually.
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent required, associate degree recommended |
| Certification and License | Credentials available through the Toyota Technical Education Network and Automotive Service Excellence |
| Job Skills | Diagnostics, communication skills, customer service, computer proficiency |
| Median Salary (2021) | $47,990 for automotive service technicians and mechanics |
| Job Growth (2021-2031) | 1% for automotive service technicians and mechanics |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
Toyota requires automotive service technicians to have at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. Many aspiring Toyota automotive service technicians also pursue a 2-year associate's degree in a related field.
Certification and Licensure
Participation in the Toyota Technical Education Network (T-TEN) Training Certificate program - offered through community colleges and vocational schools across the U.S. - can enhance job prospects. Some T-TEN programs also provide internships and apprenticeships for qualified students at Toyota dealerships. Additionally, entry-level technicians must earn Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification to be promoted to mid-level technician. Many experienced Toyota automotive service technology experts complete further certification to become ASE master technicians. Technicians also conduct vehicle inspections and may be required to hold state inspection and emissions licenses.
Skills Required
Automotive service technicians who work for Toyota are often expected to have T-TEN training in addition to ASE certification. They must be able to diagnose problems using Toyota diagnostic equipment and perform repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes, and tires. Technicians should have good customer service and communication skills, as well as computer proficiency.
Economic Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects job growth in automotive service technology to increase by 1% from 2021 through 2031, with increased job opportunities at dealerships, such as Toyota. Those applying for Toyota automotive service technology positions may find more opportunities with T-TEN and ASE certification. Toyota salaries and benefits, including health insurance and 401(k) plans, vary by dealership, but the median annual salary among automotive mechanics was reported as $42,090 in May 2019 by the BLS.
Alternate Career Options
Here are some other choices in the field of vehicle repair and maintenance:
Diesel Mechanic
Trucks, buses, and other vehicles with diesel engines are the purview of a diesel mechanic. With specialized training, diesel mechanics are qualified to do repair and maintenance work specific to these engines. Mechanics may also be responsible for general maintenance tasks like checking brakes, oil, transmissions, and wheel alignment. Diesel mechanics can learn their duties on the job, or they can pursue postsecondary training programs like certificate or associate's degree programs. Diesel mechanics can earn professional certification, and they often need to have a Commercial Driver's License in order to test-drive vehicles. The BLS reports that diesel mechanics can expect a fast-as-average increase in the number of jobs from 2021-2031, at 4%. Diesel mechanics earned a median salary of $53,020 in 2021, per the BLS.
Automotive Body and Glass Repairer
An automotive body and glass repairer is responsible for fixing or replacing car parts that have been damaged, often due to a collision. These workers may work on windshields and windows, doors, body panels, and even the frame of the vehicle. Duties include painting new parts to match existing vehicle colors. Employers may be able to accommodate new hires with just a high school diploma or they may prefer workers with 1-2 years of postsecondary education and training. Employers may also give priority consideration to candidates with voluntary professional certification. Automotive body and glass repairers can look forward an average rate of job growth, at 3%, from 2021-2031, according to the BLS. The rate of pay can vary for those who specialize. According to the BLS, auto glass installers and repairers earned median pay of $40,690 in 2021, while auto body repairers earned median pay of $50,660 in that same year.
