Tire technicians must have a variety of skills.
Tire technicians install and repair tires for passenger and commercial vehicles such as cars and trucks, according to Education-Portal. These technicians also do work for off-the-road vehicles such as heavy equipment and tractors. Tire technicians must meet a variety of skills and training requirements to succeed in this field.
Duties
Tire technicians install, balance, repair and rotate tires. They also might stud tires for snow, repair run-flat tires, retread worn off-the-road tires or complete other specialty tire work. Tire technicians, also called tire repairers, identify and inflate tires correctly for the proper size, according to ONETCenter. They additionally remount wheels onto vehicles, raise vehicles using hydraulic jacks, locate punctures in tubeless tires and reassemble tires onto wheels. Technicians also replace valve stems and remove puncturing objects. In addition, tire technicians might test experimental and sample production tires to determine strength, cause of failure and wearability, according to CareerPlanner.
Skills
Tire technicians must have strong customer service skills. They also must have a solid technical understanding of tire repair and be able to maintain repair equipment. In addition, tire technicians should have strong communication skills and be proficient in the basic use of computers. These professionals additionally must be able to work independently with little supervision, be detail oriented and manage time well. Tire technicians should have strong troubleshooting, listening and critical thinking skills as well, along with manual dexterity and control precision.
Environment
Tire technicians can work for a variety of employers such as automotive parts and tire stores, repair shops and rubber manufacturers. These professionals also can find work at car dealership service departments and roadside service providers. Technicians might jump start vehicles, provide lookout help and change flats when providing roadside service, while those who work in stores might sell tires and manage inventory as well as tire repair equipment. Tire technicians should be able to lift heavy equipment and operate repair machinery safely as well as complete extensive physical labor in all weather conditions, according to Deffenbaugh Industries in Nebraska.
Education
Many employers require tire technicians to have a high school diploma or GED along with experience. Companies also might require individuals to complete certification courses in tire technology available through the Tire Industry Association. One such program is the basic commercial tire service training and certificate program. Tire technicians can renew their certification every two years through an online recertification class. Many employers also expect tire technicians to have a valid driver's license and good driving record. Other employers additionally are willing to train tire technicians on the job.
Outlook
As tire technology continues to evolve, experienced and certified tire technicians have strong employment opportunities in this industry, according to Education-Portal. Average tire technician salaries in 2010 were $30,000, as reported by SimplyHired.
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