A number of people are needed to make an automatic car wash business run smoothly. It takes a manager and at least two other workers to keep the car wash in operation. In most cases there are about eight employees besides the manager, and in large, busy car washes there may be even more. These workers see that cars are driven onto the washing machine tracks properly. They check to see that car windows are closed and that the washing process proceeds without problems. Some workers dry and polish the cars after they pass through the washing machine. Others vacuum the rugs and upholstery.
Most car washes also offer a car waxing service, and some sell gasoline. So car wash workers sometimes wax cars or pump gas. Because car washes specialize in fast service, workers must be willing to work quickly and steadily. Teamwork is may be able to get a part-time job in a car wash while you are still in school. If you hope to become a manager, check with local car wash owners to see if there are any openings for cashiers or assistant managers.
Employment Outlook
Car wash workers can become assistant managers or managers. Some workers become owners of one or more car washes.
The job outlook for car wash workers is expected to be good. Jobs will become available as car wash workers move on to become managers or to take jobs in other fields.
Working Conditions
Weather is an important factor in the car wash business. On rainy days business may be very slow. In clear weather the workers may have to work full and hectic days. Car polishers and vacuumers who work outdoors are exposed to the hot summer sun and to the cold of winter. Car wash work is tiring and monotonous but does not require unusual strength.
Most car wash workers work 8 hours a day. Some car washes are open 5 days a week, while others stay open 6 days a week.
Car wash managers spend some time outside directing the activities of their workers. Some of their time is spent inside doing office work such as paying bills. Car wash managers usually work 8 hours a day. Sometimes their responsibilities require extra time. For instance, a manager might interview job applicants after hours.
Earnings and Benefits
Earnings vary, depending on the location of the work. Beginning car wash workers generally earn the minimum wage set by the federal government. Currently, some assistant man-agers of car washes earn salaries ranging from about $15,200 to $23,000 a year. Managers of large, busy car washes can earn up to $31,000 a year. Benefits vary greatly. Many car wash employees receive health insurance benefits after they have worked at the same car wash for more than a year.
Nature of the Work
Parking analysts, also called parking engineering technicians, develop plans for the construction and use of government-owned, multiple-vehicle parking facilities. These facilities may serve hospitals, libraries, and government offices as well as general municipal parking lots.
To determine the best site for a parking facility, parking analysts conduct in-depth field surveys of possible locations. These surveys take into account the environmental impact on each location, or the effect the new facility would have on its surroundings.
When planning a new parking facility, analysts consider a number of factors, such as the necessary capacity, the possible turnover of vehicles, and the parking fees to be charged. They must also take into account any property modifications that might be required in the construction of a new site. Parking analysts prepare maps, graphs, tracings, and diagrams to demonstrate their findings.
In addition to determining site location, parking analysts also design the facilities and prepare cost estimates for the construction. They have to provide sufficient spaces, aisles, gates, and cashier booths for the number of cars expected. They also must specify details of paving, grading, and any necessary storm drains. Finally, lighting and landscaping must also be provided for within their budgets.
At the construction sites, parking analysts evaluate the contractors' work. The analysts make sure the work conforms to their specifications. They keep logs as construction progresses and prepare final reports at the completion of a project.
Education and Training
You must have at least a high school diploma to become a parking analyst. Useful high school courses include mathematics and statistics.
Most parking analysts have at least 2 years of training at the community college level. This training should include courses in statistics, methods of surveying, technical writing, oral communication, and economics. Further training is received on the job under the supervision of an experienced parking analyst.
Getting the Job
Parking analysts are employed by government agencies that operate large parking facilities. For further information about job openings and requirements, contact your federal, state, or local civil service
Employment Outlook
Parking analysts advance by being promoted to a higher grade. Each grade represents a different salary level and increased responsibility. Some parking analysts undertake further educational training and become engineers.
The employment outlook for parking analysts is dependent on the level of government spending through the year 2006. However, as the number of vehicles using government-owned parking facilities continues to increase, many new sites will be developed.
Working Conditions
Parking analysts spend their time working in offices and visiting proposed and active construction sites. Their offices, usually located in local government buildings, are pleasant, well lighted, and furnished with drafting tables and other drawing equipment. Parking analysts have to travel to construction sites and perform their work in all weather conditions. They usually work a regular 40-hour week.
Earnings and Benefits
Parking analysts are classified as engineering technicians in government service. The average salary for engineering technicians is about $42,700 a year. In the federal government, beginning engineering technicians earn between $15,500 and $19,500 a year, depending on their education and experience. Benefits include health and life insurance, pension plans, and paid vacations.
