Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an RV Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a Recreational Vehicle (RV) Technician, you are the cornerstone of our service department, dedicated to ensuring the safety, functionality, and comfort of our customers' mobile lifestyles. You will apply a diverse skill set to perform everything from routine maintenance and pre-delivery inspections to complex diagnostics and repairs on a variety of RV systems. This includes electrical wiring, plumbing, propane gas systems, appliances, HVAC, generators, and structural components. Your work directly impacts customer satisfaction and loyalty, making you a critical brand ambassador who provides peace of mind for every adventure.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Automotive Mechanic or Technician
HVAC or Appliance Repair Technician
General Maintenance, Handyman, or Construction Roles
Marine Technician or Electrician

Advancement To:

Master Certified RV Technician
Service Manager or Shop Foreman
Service Advisor or Warranty Administrator
Mobile RV Repair Business Owner

Lateral Moves:

Quality Control Inspector (RV Manufacturing)
Technical Trainer or Instructor
Parts Specialist or Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive diagnostic testing to accurately identify the root cause of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural issues on a wide range of RV models.
Execute complex repairs on 12V and 110V electrical systems, including converters, inverters, wiring, batteries, and solar panel installations.
Service, repair, and replace RV-specific appliances such as refrigerators, water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning units, and stovetops.
Address issues within fresh, grey, and black water plumbing systems, including repairing leaks, replacing pumps, and servicing tanks and valves.
Diagnose and repair issues related to propane (LP) gas systems, ensuring all connections and appliances are safe and functioning to code.
Perform service, maintenance, and repair on slide-out mechanisms, hydraulic/electric leveling systems, and power awnings.
Conduct thorough Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI) on new and used units to ensure all systems are operational and the RV meets quality standards before customer delivery.
Install a variety of aftermarket accessories and upgrades, including satellite systems, backup cameras, ventilation fans, and custom modifications.
Address structural and body-related repairs, including roof maintenance and resealing, sidewall delamination, window and door replacement, and minor fiberglass or bodywork.
Perform chassis-related maintenance and light repairs on components such as brakes, suspension, and tires to ensure roadworthiness.
Execute seasonal services, including winterizing plumbing systems to prevent freeze damage and de-winterizing to prepare for camping season.
Troubleshoot and repair onboard generators, including performing oil changes, diagnosing starting issues, and ensuring proper power output.
Follow manufacturer guidelines and protocols to perform warranty-related repairs, documenting all steps meticulously for claim submission.
Conduct final quality control checks on all completed jobs to verify that repairs have been performed correctly and the initial issue is resolved.

Secondary Functions

Maintain detailed and accurate records of all work performed, parts used, and time spent on each repair order.
Communicate effectively with Service Advisors and Parts Department personnel to provide repair estimates, report findings, and ensure timely parts ordering.
Interact directly with customers when necessary to explain complex repairs, provide maintenance tips, and ensure they understand the work performed.
Uphold a clean, safe, and organized work environment in the service bay, adhering to all company and industry safety standards.
Continuously update technical knowledge and skills by participating in factory-sponsored training, online courses, and industry certification programs (RVIA/RVDA).
Assist in mentoring and training apprentice technicians, sharing knowledge and best practices to help develop their skills.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Electrical Systems Diagnosis: Proficient in troubleshooting both 12-volt DC and 110-volt AC electrical systems, including shorts, draws, and component failures.
Plumbing & Water Systems: Strong ability to diagnose and repair leaks, clogs, and malfunctions in PEX and PVC plumbing, water pumps, and holding tanks.
LP Gas Systems: In-depth knowledge of propane systems, including leak detection, regulator adjustment, and appliance connection in accordance with safety codes.
Appliance Repair: Skilled in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of RV appliances (Dometic, Norcold, Atwood, etc.).
HVAC Systems: Competency in servicing and repairing rooftop air conditioners, heat pumps, and propane furnaces.
Carpentry & Structural Repair: Ability to perform basic woodworking, cabinetry adjustments, and repair of walls, floors, and roofs.
Mechanical Aptitude: Strong understanding of mechanical systems, including slide-outs, leveling jacks, and chassis components.
Proficiency with Tools: Expert use of a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and specialized diagnostic equipment like multimeters and manometers.
Welding/Fabrication (Bonus): Experience with light welding and metal fabrication for frame or component repair is highly desirable.

Soft Skills

Problem-Solving: A logical and methodical approach to diagnosing complex, multi-system issues where the root cause is not immediately obvious.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in both diagnostic work and repair execution to ensure safety, quality, and prevent comebacks.
Customer Communication: Ability to clearly and respectfully explain technical issues and repair solutions to customers with varying levels of technical knowledge.
Time Management: Capable of prioritizing tasks, managing multiple repair orders simultaneously, and working efficiently to meet deadlines.
Adaptability: Flexible and able to quickly learn new technologies and repair methods as RV designs and systems evolve.
Teamwork: Collaborates effectively with service advisors, parts staff, and other technicians to ensure a smooth workflow and positive shop environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

RVDA/RVIA Registered or Certified Technician credentials.
Completion of a vocational or trade school program in automotive, HVAC, or electrical technology.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
Electrical Systems Technology
HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration)
Plumbing & Pipefitting

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3+ years of direct experience as an RV Technician or in a closely related field such as automotive repair, marine mechanics, or facilities maintenance.

Preferred: 3+ years of documented experience working in a reputable RV dealership or service center. Experience with a wide variety of RV brands and models is a significant plus.