Tips From Hiring Manager

The hiring tips below are from an interview with a Service Manager in a large auto dealership in the NYC area that was conducted on Jan 18.

1. What is the career starting point, for people with little automotive experience? Candidates are required to have practical experience in one or more service/repair related areas to start automotive technician career. A good starting point for someone with no practical or theoretical experience would be acquiring an entry-level technician position with a ‘quick lube’ service station. These jobs provide formal automotive technician training in general maintenance (oil change, fluid checks, fuses, tire pressure, filters, etc) and give candidates exposure to the auto service environment. This is also a good opportunity to become familiar with and begin purchasing the tools needed to perform the job. Technicians need to own their own tools before job hunting.

2. How much training is required for an entry level automotive technician position? Vocational (HS) or Post Secondary Education? High School Vocational training offers both classroom and practical experience (lab) and is enough to get hired as a Service Technician apprentice or assistant. Repair shops and dealers prefer candidates with post secondary education. Community Colleges and Technical Training Schools offer 6-24 month technician certificate and automotive degree programs tailored to provide classroom and hands on training in auto diagnosing, maintenance, and repair.

3. Is there any special licensing required to get hired as auto technician or is licensing optional, (ASE Certification)? Licensing is not required to ‘get hired’. ASE is a nationally recognized professional certification group that offers auto technicians certification testing in 9 service areas, (Engine Repair, Auto Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Train/Axles, Suspension & Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, Engine Performance, & Light Vehicle Diesel Engines). Technicians need to have 2 years of practical and/or educational experience to test. Techs that complete and pass all 9 exams reach ‘Master Technician’ status. ASE certifications are great resume builders but hiring managers prefer candidates with more hands on experience. Technicians train regularly on new technology and repair methods throughout the year. The typical training calendar for a service technician includes up to 2-3 training courses per year.

4. What are some other Auto-technician careers/jobs currently in high demand? Right now there’s a big demand for Light & Heavy Vehicle Diesel Technicians but basically any experienced Service & Repair Technician can quickly find employment anywhere in the US.

5. Is it better to apply at Auto Dealer service centers or with reputable local auto repair shops? Local shops are better because they expose candidates to different makes/models. Dealers are union jobs and are equipped, licensed, and trained to work on their own vehicles.

6. In your opinion.. what other non related technical qualities, experience, and/or skills do employers look for in potential applicants (Soft Skills)? Candidates need to show Interest, determination, and a strong desire to succeed in their craft. A work history showing extensive practical experience is always preferred but under qualified applicants are often given entry level opportunities as technician assistants. Candidates that are attentive, ask questions, and take good direction are most successful. Attitude gets you the job!!