Is Auto Parts OEM a Good Career Path?

Is Auto Parts OEM a good career path? To decide, one needs to analyze multiple factors like salary, job security, safety, etc. As you might be wondering whether you should go for this career option or not, we have made the task easier for you.

In this write-up, we shall discuss everything including the pros and cons of the Auto Parts OEM industry that one must know before making a choice.

However, before we dig deep, it is pertinent to know what Auto Parts O.E.M is about.

The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) auto parts industry involves the production and distribution of parts that are used in the manufacturing of vehicles. This can include a wide range of products, from engines and transmissions to smaller components such as sensors and switches.

In general, whether or not a career in OEM auto parts is a good choice depends on a variety of factors. They might include your interests, skills, goals, etc.

Similarly, a career in this industry may be a good fit for someone with an interest in mechanics, engineering, or manufacturing.

Likewise, strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are also important skills for this type of job.

However, even if you possess such skills and qualifications, you must be aware of the perks this career would offer. Moreover, you must know the potential challenges you may face in this career as well.

Let us now briefly discuss the pros and cons of a career in Auto Parts OEM.

5 Reasons why Auto Parts OEM is a Good Career Path

Auto Parts OEM as a career path offers multiple benefits. We have discussed some of them below.

1. It offers Job Security

The auto industry is a large, growing, and evolving industry. Given this fact, there is always a steady demand for skilled workers to produce and distribute auto parts.

Therefore, a career in the Auto Parts OEM industry is always safe providing us with a sense of job security.

2. Career Advancement

There are many different roles within the OEM auto parts industry. With different roles come multiple opportunities for growth and advancement to management and leadership positions.

Thus, one can climb the ladder of success within this industry on the basis of one’s qualifications and skills.

3. Technical Skills

As the industry is largely based on technical skills, it provides an opportunity to develop technical skills in areas such as engineering, manufacturing, and problem-solving.

Such skills are valuable and pay back in multiple ways.

4. Attractive Salary Packages

Many positions in the OEM auto parts industry are well-paying. Furthermore, the compensation packages include benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

“The average automotive parts manager salary in the USA is $78,000 per year or $37.50 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $60,000 per year while most experienced workers make up to $107,950 per year.”

Source: Talent

5. Dynamic Environment

Last, but not least, the dynamic environment that the industry has to offer to the workers and employees makes it one of the best career options.

The automotive industry is constantly changing. New technologies and innovations are being introduced with the passage of time.

This means that working in OEM auto parts can be challenging and exciting. Furthermore, it provides opportunities to learn and grow professionally.

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8 Reasons why you should avoid Auto Parts OEM Industry

While a career in OEM auto parts can be a rewarding and exciting choice, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. For example;

1. Long Working Hours

Some positions within the OEM auto parts industry may require long working hours. This may include overtime and shift work.

2. Career might be Stressful

The automotive industry is competitive and fast-paced. This can potentially lead to high-stress levels for some workers.

3. OEM Industry is Physically Demanding

Some positions within the OEM auto parts industry may involve manual labor or work in a manufacturing environment. Thus, such career paths can be physically demanding for the workers.

4. Auto Parts offers Limited Career Mobility

Some roles within the OEM auto parts industry may have limited career mobility. This means that advancement opportunities are limited for the employees/workers in some jobs.

5. Limited Job Opportunities

The OEM auto parts industry is often concentrated in certain regions. Thus, job opportunities in this industry may be limited in certain areas.

Therefore, to find a career in this industry, one might need to travel to distant places.

6. Risk of Automation

With the advancements in technology and the development of AI-based Robots, humans might get replaced by automation soon; thus rendering the workers in the industry unemployed.

7. Safety Hazards in some Jobs

Some positions in the OEM auto parts industry can be hazardous. There is always a risk of injury from machinery, chemicals, and other hazards.

8. Requires Knowledge Upgradation

As the industry is constantly evolving, one is always required to continuously upgrade one’s skills and knowledge in order to fit in the industry.

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Concluding Thoughts

To cap it all, if you are interested in the mechanical and engineering side of the automotive industry. Moreover, if you own the required skill set, then a career in OEM auto parts can be a good fit for you.

However, it’s also important to consider other factors such as job availability, salary and benefits, and long-term career prospects.

Furthermore, it is always important to keep in mind that every career has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, as discussed above. So, you must weigh them carefully before making a decision.

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