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What Is an Oil Change Technician and How to Become One

Oil Change Technician

What Is an Oil Change Technician?

An oil change technician is responsible for vehicle maintenance and performing light automobile repairs like oil changes and tire rotations. Some employers list these jobs as “Oil Technician” or “Lube Technician.” Your responsibilities in any of these positions include evaluating what a car needs and mastering the equipment needed to repair vehicles. Other duties include assessing a car’s mechanical functionality. You also perform preventative maintenance, including checking and refilling vehicle fluids and replacing filters, lights, and wipers. You must maintain a clean and safe work environment, as working with cars can often be a dirty job.

How to Become an Oil Change Technician

The first step to becoming an oil change technician is getting hands-on experience working with cars. Many high schools offer vocational programs focused on automotive services. After high school, you can attend a trade school or vocational school and find a program focused on automotive mechanics. Other qualifications include job experience in the field, during which you can learn many of the essential skills and duties. Many employers prefer their oil change technicians to register for the Automotive Service Excellence certification exams, which require at least two years of education or job experience.