Alarm System Installer, Car Accessories Installer, Truck Accessories Installer
Interest in operating automated assembly equipment, and in using hand and power tools and other aids such as overhead joists, to position and install parts and subassemblies such as engines, transmissions, door panels and instrument panels
Interest in copying information to connect cables, tubes and wires to complete assemblies and installations; and in tending automated assembling equipment such as robotic and fixed automation equipment
Interest in fitting and adjusting parts such as doors, hoods and trunk lids
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Automobile accessories installers may specialize in the type of vehicle they work on or the types of accessories they install. For example, they primarily may work on cars, trucks, vans, commercial vehicles or motor homes, or they may specialize in installing one or more types of after-market products:
Duties and responsibilities vary from one position to another but, in general, accessories installers:
They also may keep records, compute charges for labour and materials, and deal directly with customers.
Electronic systems installers install, diagnose and repair remote starters, car audio, alarm systems and other electronic devices. They study circuit diagrams, test wiring and other components to locate defects and replace defective parts.
Upholstery installers measure, cut and sew materials for upholstery and covers. They also may adjust or replace seat springs.
Most automobile accessories installers work a 40 hour, five day week. Some evening, weekend or holiday work may be required. The work sometimes is noisy and dirty, and there is some risk of injury involved in working with power tools and near exhaust gases.
Some installers routinely are required to lift items that weigh up to 20 kilograms.
Automobile accessories installers need the following characteristics:
They should enjoy using power tools and operating equipment, taking a methodical approach to their work, and fitting and adjusting parts.
Automobile accessories installers are trained on the job. Employers generally prefer to hire applicants who already have some related education or experience. For example, installers who build wood truck box liners and tool boxes should know how to use table saws, routers and other wood tools safely.
Electronic systems installers must be familiar with 12 volt electrical systems. High school math, physics and electronics courses, and Mobile Electronics Certified Professional (MECP) training programs are definite assets.
Trainees may be expected to provide their own hand tools.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Automobile accessories installers are employed by automotive specialty shops.
Experienced installers may advance to service manager or shop foreperson positions. Some start their own businesses or purchase existing businesses.
Automobile accessories installers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 9522: Motor Vehicle Assemblers, Inspectors and Testers. In Alberta, 77% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Automobile accessories installers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 9522: Motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers.
According to the 2015 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers occupational group earned on average from $16.07 to $24.05 an hour. The overall average wage was $19.98 an hour. For more information, see the Motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers wage profile.
Automotive Service and Repair Association website: www.asra-alberta.ab.ca
Mobile Electronics Certified Professional (MECP) website: www.mecp.com
Motor Dealers' Association of Alberta website: www.mdaalberta.com
For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.
Updated Apr 09, 2014. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.