Mechanic
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2017) |
 A mechanic at a steam pump in an electric power house, 1920, (from a photo study for the Works Progress Administration (WPA)). | |
| Occupation | |
|---|---|
Occupation type | Vocational |
Activity sectors | Industrial |
| Description | |
Education required | Apprenticeship |
Related jobs | Repairman, Technician |
A mechanic is an artisan, skilled tradesperson, or technician who uses tools to build, maintain, or repair machinery.[1]
Duties
Most mechanics specialize in a particular field, such as air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics, auto mechanics, bicycle mechanics, boiler mechanics, general mechanics, industrial maintenance mechanics (millwrights), motorcycle mechanics, aircraft mechanics, heavy duty equipment mechanics, bus mechanics, truck mechanics,[2] diesel mechanics as well as tank mechanics in the armed services.
A mechanic is typically certified by a trade association or regional government power. Mechanics may be separated into two classes based on the type of machines they work on, heavyweight and lightweight. Heavyweight work is on larger machines or heavy equipment, such as tractors and trailers, while lightweight work is on smaller items, such as automotive engines.
Auto mechanics
Auto mechanics have many trades within. Some may specialize in the electrical aspects, while others may specialize in the mechanical aspects. Other areas include: brakes and steering, suspension, automatic or manual transmission, engine repairs or diagnosing customer complaints.
An automotive technician, on the other hand, has a wide variety of topics to learn.
References
- ^ 1980 Census of Population: Classified Index of Industries and Occupations. U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census. 1982. p. O-68. Retrieved December 18, 2017.
- ^ Henderson, C.J.; Dolphin, J.; Fehl, P.; Davenport, R. (2010). Career Opportunities in the Armed Forces. Career Opportunities Series. Facts On File, Incorporated. p. 230. ISBN 978-1-4381-1062-2. Retrieved December 18, 2017.
