What Does an Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician Do?

An Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician installs, repairs tests and troubleshoots electronic systems connected to the operating system of motor vehicles. 

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Reading and interpreting schematics, wiring diagrams, instruction manuals, technical bulletins, government regulations, company policies and parts catalogues
  • Using microfiche and computerized service information systems to locate necessary information as well as fax-back and technical telephone support systems
  • Safely operating a variety of hand, power, specialized and electronic service tools and equipment
  • Planning the sequence of operations to properly install and test main control units and other electronic accessory components 
  • Organizing, routing and securing wiring
  • Testing and calibrating devices and components and performing final installation checks
  • Working independently and as a member of a team to get the job done right
  • Advising customers on installation and/or service and repair requirements as well as explaining costs

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To become an Automotive Electronic Assembly Technician you should complete Grade 12 and enter an apprenticeship of 4,000 hours in this restricted trade, including on-the-job and in-school training.

What’s Your Future as an Automotive Electronic Assembly Technician?

Most workers employed as Automotive Electronic Assembly Technicians work full-time, sometimes in custom shops that specialize in this area, or often in vehicle repair shops and dealerships where general automotive repair is performed. New vehicles are increasingly more complex and sophisticated, often requiring electronic-based equipment to perform trouble-shooting and testing functions. As well, electronic accessory systems are becoming standard in many vehicles. Potential employers include:  

  • motor vehicle repair shops
  • motor vehicle dealerships
  • custom shops
  • small business-self employment

Wage Rate

  • you start at a wage rate that is less than that of a journeyperson 
  • this rate increases gradually as you acquire skills and gain competency
  • the journeyperson’s wage rate varies in the range of $14.00 to $22.00 per hour, often with benefits and the opportunities for overtime

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as an Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician For You?

Do you enjoy working with your hands?

Yes      No

Can you read and understand written instructions, schematics and diagrams?

Yes      No

Do you prefer to work on different tasks and not the same thing every day?

Yes      No

Can you lift, kneel, bend, stoop and stretch and work in confined spaces if required?

Yes      No

Can you visualize how things fit together for them to work?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology?

Yes      No

Are you good at planning how to accomplish a task from start to finish?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as an Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician may be for you!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technician
  • Industrial Instrument Mechanic
  • Avionics Technician
  • Telecommunications Installer & Repairer