Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Licensed Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a Licensed Technician, you are the cornerstone of our service department's success and reputation. You are a diagnostic expert and a master of your craft, responsible for performing a wide range of complex repairs and maintenance on customer vehicles. This role requires not just technical proficiency, but also a commitment to quality, efficiency, and safety. You will work collaboratively with service advisors and other technicians to ensure a seamless and positive customer experience, directly contributing to our goal of being the top service provider in the region. This role requires a problem-solver who takes pride in their work and is eager to stay on the cutting edge of automotive technology.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Apprentice Technician
Lube / Express Technician
Automotive Technical School Graduate

Advancement To:

Master Technician / Lead Technician
Shop Foreman / Team Leader
Service Manager

Lateral Moves:

Service Advisor
Warranty Administrator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conduct comprehensive and precise multi-point vehicle inspections to identify necessary maintenance and safety-critical repairs, accurately documenting all findings for service advisors.
Utilize advanced diagnostic equipment, scan tools, and software to accurately pinpoint complex issues within engine, transmission, electrical, and climate control systems.
Perform complex and technically demanding repairs on a variety of vehicle systems, including engine overhauls, transmission replacements, and intricate electrical diagnostics.
Execute routine and scheduled maintenance services with precision, including oil changes, tire rotations, fluid flushes, and filter replacements, according to manufacturer specifications.
Diagnose and repair advanced vehicle systems, including suspension, steering, braking (ABS), and drivetrain components to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Mount, balance, and install tires, as well as perform four-wheel alignments using modern alignment equipment to ensure vehicle stability and prevent uneven tire wear.
Service and repair vehicle heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including diagnosing leaks and recharging refrigerant.
Test-drive vehicles before and after repairs to verify customer complaints, confirm the effectiveness of the repairs, and ensure the vehicle operates to specification.
Maintain meticulous and detailed records of all work performed, including parts used and labor time, on digital or paper repair orders.
Adhere strictly to all dealership, manufacturer, and industry safety protocols and standards to maintain a safe and clean working environment.
Manage workflow and time effectively to meet and exceed flat-rate time allowances, maximizing personal productivity and shop efficiency.
Handle and resolve the most challenging and intermittent vehicle issues that may have been escalated by other technicians.
Perform state-mandated vehicle safety and/or emissions inspections, ensuring all work complies with state and federal regulations.
Address and complete all work outlined on the repair order with efficiency and accuracy, in accordance with dealership and factory standards.
Communicate complex technical diagnoses and recommended repair plans clearly and effectively to service advisors and management.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to vehicle performance and common repair trends.
Contribute to the organization's service strategy by providing feedback on tools, equipment, and repair procedures.
Collaborate with the parts department to ensure the correct parts are sourced and available for timely job completion.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the service team to prioritize workflow and address shop-wide challenges.
Mentor and provide guidance to apprentice technicians, sharing knowledge and best practices to foster team development.
Stay current with the latest automotive technology, recalls, and technical service bulletins by completing manufacturer-sponsored and ASE-required training.
Maintain and take responsibility for all shop-owned tools and equipment, reporting any issues or needs for repair.
Assist in maintaining shop cleanliness, organization, and a professional appearance in the service bays.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

ASE Certifications: A-series certifications (e.g., A1-A8) are required. Master Technician status is highly preferred.
Diagnostic Proficiency: Expertise in using OEM and aftermarket diagnostic scan tools (e.g., Snap-on, Autel, Bosch), oscilloscopes, and multimeters.
Mechanical & Electrical Expertise: Deep knowledge of modern vehicle mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems, including CAN bus networks.
Valid Driver's License: A current, valid driver's license with a clean driving record is mandatory for test-driving vehicles.
HVAC Repair: EPA 609 certification for handling and recycling refrigerants is required.
Brand Specialization: Proven experience working on specific domestic, European, or Asian vehicle makes is a significant plus.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to logically and methodically diagnose complex, intermittent, and unusual vehicle issues.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous and thorough approach to all repairs and documentation to ensure quality and accuracy.
Time Management: Strong ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload, and operate efficiently in a fast-paced, flat-rate environment.
Communication: Ability to clearly explain technical information to non-technical individuals like service advisors and customers.
Teamwork & Collaboration: A positive, cooperative attitude with a willingness to assist and mentor fellow technicians.
Adaptability: Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies, including hybrid, electric (EV), and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
Current, valid ASE Certifications.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or Technical Diploma from an accredited automotive technology program.
Manufacturer-specific training certifications.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-5+ years of professional, hands-on experience as an automotive service technician in a dealership or independent repair shop.

Preferred:

5+ years of experience with a consistent track record of high-quality repairs and productivity.
Experience with European brands, diesel engines, or hybrid/EV platforms is highly desirable.
Verifiable experience as a lead technician or in a role involving complex diagnostics.