A master technician is an expert in automobile maintenance and repair who has accumulated several years of experience and passed a series of certification exams. Most master technicians work as head mechanics in repair shops, where they perform the most difficult jobs and supervise crews working on cars, trucks, motorcycles, and heavy equipment. The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in the United States certifies qualified candidates. Many other countries have organizations that administer exams and award credentials to successful mechanics, similar to the ASE.
In the United States, a person who wants to become a master technician must usually have at least two years of mechanic experience and pass eight certification exams. Engines, automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, heating and cooling, and general performance are all covered in the exams. At an accredited ASE testing center, tests are available in both written and computerized formats and typically take two to four hours to complete. Master technicians must also take periodic recertification exams to keep their credentials current.
A large company or chain’s ASE certified master technician is typically in charge of supervising other technicians. He or she gives instructions, monitors progress, and suggests ways to improve repair methods. Master technicians can train other mechanics in a variety of highly specialized areas because they are familiar with a wide range of repair work. Technicians can provide faster, more efficient service by delegating responsibilities to specialists.
When a repair is particularly complicated or difficult, the master technician steps in to complete it personally. Some jobs necessitate hours of labor-intensive restoration work, while others necessitate meticulous diagnosis of minor, subtle issues. Master technicians must be able to use a variety of hand and power tools, as well as diagnostic machines, timing guns, and other specialized tools. To provide the best possible service to customers, some technicians choose to specialize in a specific make or brand of vehicle.
A master technician may choose to run his or her own repair shop, where he or she is in charge of hiring assistants and handling the majority of the business’s administrative duties. The technician keeps track of customers’ records, orders parts and tools from manufacturers, and keeps stock in stock rooms up to date. He or she is also in charge of maintaining a safe workplace and properly disposing of hazardous materials in accordance with local and federal regulations.