Description: Vehicle technicians are responsible for inspection, maintenance and repair of electric and/or gas-powered vehicles.

Knowledge Required: Electric vehicle technicians specialize in mechanical repairs, integrated electronic systems, computer skills, hand tools and engineering theory and technical studies.

Skills: Attention to detail, communication, observation and problem solving

Career Path: Electric vehicle technicians pursue a postsecondary vocational school or community college paired with on-the-job training. On-the-job training is necessary before an individual can begin to work independently.  A certificate from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is required for larger repair shops or dealerships. It takes 2 to 5 years of experience to become a fully qualified technician through ASE.

Best Cities for this Job:  Los Angeles, California; White Plains, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Atlanta, Georgia; Houston, Texas; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Washington D.C.

Median Annual Income: National: $39,060 CA: $38,000

Future Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that employment of electric vehicle technicians could grow 17 percent from 2010-2020.

From the Field: “What is it that actually makes you happy? And I found that it’s dedicating yourself to a cause bigger that’s than yourself.”– Ben Grandy, Electric Vehicle Technician

Did You Know:  Your chances of running out of charge when stuck in traffic are about the same in an electric car as in a gasoline-fueled car.