What do you need to do to become a tire technician?

There are a good number of automobiles throughout the world and in the US. All of these automobiles have one thing in common; they all travel on tires. For that reason, the tire business is huge around the world.  For those looking to work in this area, as a vocation, you will need to know how to prepare.

Tire technicians install, repair, and balance and rotate tires for passenger and commercial tires.  They inspect tires, check that the tires are properly inflated and also patch some tires.

Special treatment is required for some tires. Depending on the season, some tires are studded for special traction on snow and ice.  In addition, some tires require retreading of previously worn tires.

Tire technicians may sell tires, take inventory, and maintain tire repair equipment.

You need to have a high school diploma or equivalent in order to be a tire technician. Employers look for those who have had enough discipline to take care of that part of their education.

You also need to have some experience in the tire business. Other will give you on the job training until you become proficient enough to run the business for yourself.

A tire technician also needs to have good customer service skills. Nothing should be more important to you than the customer. You always need to meet all their requirements. You need to communicate effectively with your customers.

Mechanical aptitude is an added advantage. You will also need to operate tire balancers and tire changing machines. Computer support has become essential for every business now. Computers are used for inventory, payroll, and billing. It is necessary for you to have some basic computer skills to work in the tire business.

You should be able to work with minimal supervision. Tire business is an extremely busy one. You need to perform alone when others are busy doing something else.

Heavy lifting is also a part of the job. If you want this as your vocation, you should be able to do that lifting when required.  It is also needed to do it safely.

You will most likely need a driverÕs license and you may be required to deliver parts and tires to other locations. You will want to have a clean driving record.

You can work up to about $16 per hour in the tire business.  You can also work up to running your own business.  In order to be a tire technician you need to have all the above mentioned qualities. You should be able to help a customer pick the best wheels for his car or help them fill out tire rebates. With a little education you can perform well in this business.