What is a tyre technician?
Sometimes known as a tyre fitter, tyre technicians have increasingly varied roles which focus on the replacement of worn, faulty and damaged tyres, as well as advising customers on new tyre choices, correcting wheel alignments and fitting all types of tyre to a range of vehicles.
The role has several different facets, these can include:
- Performing visual checks for damage and wear on existing fitted tyres; for example, checking for nails or other objects which may have become lodged in the tyre, and checking tread depth.
- Removing existing tyres for repair or replacement – this often requires training in the use of specialist equipment. Once removed, tyres may also need to be deflated and disposed of.
- Fitting a new tyre and inflating it to the correct pressure according to manufacturer guidelines for the vehicle in question.
- Wheel replacement.
- Advising customers if a tyre does not meet legal requirements, and providing guidance on next steps; for example, advising of potential insurance policy invalidation for illegal tyres.
- Keeping records of all work performed
- Training with tools and equipment necessary to perform the job.
What Qualifications Are Required?
Anyone can become a tyre technician. Entry into the job doesn’t require formal training as this is usually provided through work experience; however, there are training and development opportunities available. These include the NTDA Tyre Technician Development Scheme, while follows pilot programs in other areas of the motor trade. To enter formal training, you will require certain qualifications such as GCSE Maths and English, and progression will depend on demonstrating practical assessed skills as well as a working knowledge of the job.
What are the working hours and salary?
Many tyre technicians can work up to 6 days a week, as garages and tyre centres typically have weekend shifts available. Most work will be shift-based, rather than a normal 9-5, though this will depend on the workplace. Some roles can involve travel to carry out repairs and tyre replacement at a customer’s home or workplace. Some companies exclusively offer mobile tyre replacement services, and this will require lots of travel.
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Trainee technicians can expect to earn around £8,000. This rises with experience and qualifications, with those who attain formal qualifications seeing salaries in the region of £11,000 to £15,000 per year. More experienced technicians can see their annual salary rise to around £20,000.
Is there career progression?
Absolutely. As well as gaining formal qualifications, which bring added salary benefits and increased employability, technicians can progress within their business. Typical roles can include becoming a senior technician or even managing a fast fit centre or another tyre business.
