Vehicle technician vacancies surge by 70%

The IMI has revealed the extent that the skills shortage in the sector is driving up salaries.

Its Automotive Job Postings Briefing found that the current vacancy rate in the industry is 3.8 per 100 vacancies, representing 20,000 vacancies. The rate rose rapidly during 2021 and remained at record levels into 2022, although the rates have dipped slightly in the past two months.

While all roles have seen higher numbers of job posts and escalated salaries advertised, the most significant increases have been seen in posts seeking vehicle technicians, vehicle and parts salespersons and tyre, exhaust and windscreen fitters.

There are now 70% more job posts for vehicle technicians than in September 2019, and as a result salaries have increased by 5.5% to an average of £34,500.

However, salaries for tyre, exhaust and windscreen fitters have shot up by 21.3% to an average of £26,600, with the number of jobs advertised 45% higher than the same period last year.

Elsewhere, salaries for vehicle and parts salespersons are now 11.5% higher than three years ago.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said: “At the IMI, we keep a close eye on automotive industry data to help us understand what’s really going on in our sector. It has been very encouraging to see the steady growth in salaries being offered for automotive professionals. In the past our analysis has highlighted a salary premium for job posts specifically requesting EV skills. However, this year the high levels of vacancies are across the board, and the urgent need to address the issue, means that all salaries have increased. Vehicle technician salaries are now at the same level as salaries advertised for EV job roles.

“Whilst over inflated salary expectations can put pressure on employers, it is extremely positive for individuals, especially during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. As an industry body one of the most common issues our members raise is how the sector can attract talent and minimise churn. With this challenge in mind, it is encouraging to see the industry evolving and salaries rising to reflect the talent and value of motor trade professionals.”