Autotech Recruit, a UK recruitment consultancy has published an interesting survey on the priorities of automotive technicians when it comes to considering a job move. The results might surprise you, as working hours came out as the main factor, even over pay. 

Autotech Recruit polled vehicle technicians aged 18 to 54 across the UK to discover their professional priorities. Nearly 79% of respondents rated working hours as ‘Very Important’, surpassing even salary, highlighting the growing emphasis on work-life balance within the automotive workforce. Flexibility, no weekend work and holiday allowances, also ranked in the top five important factors when searching for a job, underlining the shifting expectations of vehicle technicians. Reflecting changing priorities, the UK Motor Ombudsman recently reported that almost a third (29%) of independent garages are considering adjusting their opening hours to support staff well-being. 

Of concern to garage owners will be the very high percentage, 70% of vehicle technicians, who said they were considering leaving their current position. Many wanted to move on within the industry or start their own enterprise, but others were considering leaving the industry altogether.

James Mackay, Sales Director for Autotech Recruit and Autotech Academy commented, “With 70% of vehicle technicians considering leaving their current roles, it's clear that the sector needs to adapt to the evolving priorities of its workforce. Work-life balance, flexibility, and career progression are no longer optional, they are essential.”

The survey findings also revealed that age significantly influences priorities, with the youngest employees focusing on progression and skill-building (75%) for those under 25, while older groups (25 and above) prioritise financial rewards. Younger technicians are a driving force for industry innovation. However, their frustration with the lack of opportunities is a wake-up call for employers. Without clear paths for growth, we risk losing their potential to other sectors.”

The survey’s findings come at a critical time for the automotive sector. With the average age of technicians 40 or older, the industry faces the prospect of a widening skills gap as retirements accelerate. At the same time, younger workers are voicing a strong desire to progress, and mid-career professionals are demanding better incentives and work-life balance.

The full survey can be downloaded from the Autotech website here.