Electric Vehicle (EV) technicians are responsible for servicing and maintaining electric vehicles, as well as installing and maintaining charging stations, including the necessary cables and connectors. The EV industry – which encompasses charging infrastructure and the skilled professionals who support it – is facing a shortage of qualified workers. As the number of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road continues to rise, this shortage is expected to worsen

This is great news for anyone considering a career as an EV Technician, as the growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry opens up many job opportunities. As more electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles hit the road, the EV industry is poised for significant growth, creating exciting prospects for both current and future technicians. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for the industry and the job market.

What Does an EV Technician Do?

Electric Vehicle (EV) technicians play a vital role in the installation and maintenance of charging stations (Level 1, 2, and 3), as well as servicing EVs themselves. The complexity of EV charging systems, especially with public fast chargers (Level 3), requires technicians to be skilled in diagnosing and addressing various electrical issues. Common tasks include troubleshooting charging station problems, inspecting cables and connectors, and ensuring the performance of onboard chargers. Technicians must also be proficient in diagnosing battery degradation, thermal management system issues, and regenerative braking concerns.

In addition to installation, maintaining EVs requires specialized knowledge. EV technicians need to be adept at troubleshooting electrical problems, such as faulty wiring, loose connections, and battery issues. Diagnosing issues in the vehicle’s charging system or electrical components requires strong diagnostic skills, as the systems are intricate and can be sensitive to temperature, software updates, and wear. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of EVs, making skilled technicians essential to the continued growth and reliability of the electric vehicle market.

Technicians working on these vehicles need specific training to understand both the systems used, and the safety precautions they need to take.

Why is There an EV Technician Shortage?

The shortage of qualified Electric Vehicle (EV) technicians is a direct result of the rapid growth of the EV market, which has only recently begun to see significant sales. As more electric vehicles hit the road and the charging infrastructure expands, the need for skilled professionals to install, maintain, and repair both EVs and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) has surged. However, acquiring the necessary expertise takes time, as technicians must undergo specialized training, which requires competent instructors and quality educational resources. While the pool of qualified technicians is growing, it's still a relatively small group, creating a high demand for their services across dealerships, independent repair shops, and charging station installers.

This shortage also creates abundant opportunities for those looking to enter this fast-growing field. As the EV sector continues to expand, there is a clear pathway for individuals to pursue a rewarding career in this space. With the right training and certifications, aspiring technicians can tap into a high-demand job market, which offers long-term career growth, job security, and the chance to be part of the green energy revolution. The opportunities are vast, ranging from EV servicing to installation and maintenance of charging stations, making it an exciting time for those entering the industry

How Will This Shortage Affect Current EV Owners?

When it comes to servicing and repairs, there’s a challenge. Repair shops are struggling to find qualified technicians who can work on EVs, which drives up labor costs. While this benefits EV technicians, it means EV owners face higher prices for repairs. Another issue is the limited capacity of EV repair shops. As a result, owners may have to wait days or even weeks for an appointment. If they need to rent a vehicle in the meantime, those costs can add up quickly!

Take the Next Step Towards Getting a EV Technician Certificate

EV sales continue to rise, with more electric vehicles hitting the roads each year. While the demand for skilled technicians is growing, this presents a great opportunity for those choosing a career in the field. The continued shortage of EV technicians means strong job prospects and long-term growth for those entering this in-demand industry

If you’re interested in becoming an EV technician, George Brown College has a program for you. Find out how you can get started by calling a Program Consultant toll free at 1-888-553-5333.