Do you work as a mechanic but would like a new challenge? Good news if that’s the case! You can put your mechanical expertise to work in a wide variety of other settings.

The nicest aspect about these positions is that you don’t need a degree or qualification to get hired. Some of them even provide higher salaries than regular mechanics.

It’s only sometimes smooth sailing when you’re a technician. You must be versatile enough to fix anything from passenger vehicles to aircraft to farm equipment. This list of alternative occupations for mechanics might help you locate the ideal one if you’re looking to generate money while doing something you enjoy.

What is a mechanic?

A mechanic is someone who repairs vehicles and equipment. They may repair engines, transmissions, brakes, tires, suspension systems, steering mechanisms, electrical components, and much more. Mechanics must understand how all parts of a vehicle function together.

Mechanics need to know how to diagnose problems with vehicles and equipment. They also need to know how to fix those problems. This means knowing what tools are required to do the job. A good mechanic should be able to troubleshoot issues and figure out why things aren’t working properly.

Mechanics usually work at garages, auto shops, service stations, truck stops, and other places where vehicles and equipment are repaired. Some mechanics work as independent contractors, while others work for companies like Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and many others.

If you want to get away from the daily grind of being a mechanic, many other options are available. Read on to learn about some of the most popular alternatives to being a mechanic.

1. Automotive Technician

An automotive technician works at an auto shop or dealership. They perform routine maintenance and repairs on automobiles, trucks, SUVs, vans, and light commercial vehicles.

They might install new parts, replace worn parts, adjust suspensions, align wheels, and much more. The specific tasks vary depending on the type of vehicle they are repairing.

Being an automotive technician requires a high school diploma or equivalent. It also takes several years of experience to become certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

2. Auto Body Repairman

An auto body repairman performs minor repairs on damaged vehicles. These include replacing windshields, repainting bumpers, and painting car bodies. Auto body repairmen usually work at auto body shops but may also work independently. They need to pass a background check before they can obtain their license.

Being an auto body repairman typically doesn’t require any special training or education. However, developing the necessary skills takes several years of experience.

3. Welder

Welding is one of the oldest professions in the world. People have been welding since ancient times. Welding is used to joining metal pieces together. Different types of welds include arc, gas tungsten, oxyacetylene, plasma, and submerged arc.

The process of welding involves melting metals using heat. The molten metal is then poured onto another piece of metal. When the two pieces come into contact, the molten metal flows between them.

The best way to become a welder is through apprenticeship. You will learn the basics of welding during this time. After that, you will receive certification from the American Welding Society.

4. Refrigeration Technologist

A refrigeration technologist works with air conditioning units. Air conditioners use refrigerants to cool buildings and homes. Refrigerant technicians must understand how these systems work and how to maintain them.

A refrigeration technologist must complete a four-year program at a technical college. After graduation, they must also earn a certificate from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

5. Carpentry/Cabinet Maker

Carpenters build furniture and cabinets. They make everything from small items such as picture frames and bookshelves to large structures like barns. Carpenters usually start working for local businesses and later move to larger jobs.

To become a carpenter, you need to attend vocational schools. Most programs last three years and teach students all aspects of carpentry. Once you graduate, you can apply for licensing exams.

6. Electrical Technician

Electrical technicians install electrical wiring and fixtures. They connect appliances, lights, and other devices to power lines. This job requires knowledge of electricity and safety practices.

To become an electrical technician, you should get a degree in electronics technology. Then, you can go on to study engineering at a community college. After earning your associate’s degree, you can apply for state licensing exams.

7. Plumbing Tech

Plumbers install pipes and plumbing fixtures. They also fix leaks and clean drains. Plumbing techs must be able to read blueprints and draw diagrams. They must know how to test water pressure and temperature.

To become a plumber, you need to attend trade school. Some programs offer both plumbing and HVAC classes. Others only focus on plumbing. After graduating, you can apply for licensure exams.

8. Truck Driver

Truck drivers deliver goods throughout the country. They transport products from factories to stores and back again. You must pass a commercial driver’s license exam to drive a truck.

Being a truck driver takes hard work and dedication. It can take several months or even years to become qualified to drive a big rig. However, once you do, you can expect to make good money.

You can find employment by applying online. Many companies hire part-time truck drivers who want to supplement their income while they continue studying for their CDL.

9. Construction Worker

Construction workers build houses, offices, and other structures. They may work alone or with others. A construction worker must have excellent hand skills and physical strength.

Becoming a construction worker takes many different paths. You can begin by attending high school or vocational school. After completing your education, you can look into training programs. These programs teach you about building materials and techniques.

Once trained, you can apply for jobs requiring specific licenses. For example, if you want to work as a bricklayer, you must obtain a permit.

10. Electrician

Electricians repair electric circuits and equipment. They use tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and soldering irons to help them do this job. Electricians often work in industrial settings.

To become an electrician, you need to earn an associate’s degree in electronics technology. After graduation, you can enroll in technical colleges to learn more about the field.

After earning your degree, you can apply to take state licensing exams. If you pass these tests, you will receive a license to practice as an electrician.

11. Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft mechanics service airplanes and helicopters. They maintain engines, propellers, landing gear, and other parts of aircraft.

To become an aircraft mechanic, you must complete two years of apprenticeship. During this time, you will learn all aspects of aviation maintenance.

Then, you can apply for certification exams. Once you pass these tests, employers will give you a chance to prove yourself.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an occupation with flexible hours, this list of alternative jobs for mechanics will come in handy. These jobs offer more flexibility and pay better than most traditional ones. If you want to make extra cash on the side, consider working as a mechanic.

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