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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Tire Technician

💰 $32,000 - $55,000

Automotive ServicesSkilled TradesMaintenance and RepairGeneral Labor

🎯 Role Definition

A Tire Technician is a skilled automotive professional specializing in the service and maintenance of tires and wheels on passenger and light truck vehicles. This role is foundational to vehicle safety and performance, directly impacting a customer's driving experience. Working in a dynamic, fast-paced service center or dealership environment, the Tire Technician is responsible for everything from expert installation and balancing to diagnosing and repairing tire-related issues. This position requires a combination of technical proficiency, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety protocols to ensure every vehicle leaves the shop in optimal condition.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • General Laborer / Shop Assistant
  • Automotive Detailer
  • Lube Technician

Advancement To:

  • Lead Tire Technician / Shop Foreman
  • Automotive Mechanic / Technician (with additional training/certifications)
  • Service Advisor / Service Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Alignment Technician
  • Brake Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform expert tire installation, dismounting, and mounting on a variety of passenger and light truck vehicles using state-of-the-art mounting and balancing equipment.
  • Conduct high-precision wheel balancing, including both static and dynamic balancing, to eliminate vibrations and ensure a smooth, safe driving experience for the customer.
  • Execute thorough tire rotations according to manufacturer specifications or vehicle-specific patterns to promote even tread wear and significantly extend the lifespan of the tires.
  • Diagnose and perform tire repairs for punctures, cuts, and other damage, strictly adhering to industry safety standards and TIA (Tire Industry Association) guidelines for patching and plugging.
  • Utilize specialized TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) diagnostic tools to test, diagnose, and reset or relearn sensors, ensuring the system's proper functionality and compliance with safety regulations.
  • Conduct comprehensive multi-point vehicle inspections, methodically checking tire pressure, measuring tread depth, and visually inspecting tires for irregular wear, cracks, bulges, or other potential hazards.
  • Accurately match and mount diverse tire and wheel combinations, ensuring proper fitment, clearance, and compatibility for a wide range of domestic and foreign vehicle makes and models.
  • Perform computerized four-wheel alignments by adjusting vehicle suspension angles (caster, camber, and toe) to precise manufacturer specifications to prevent premature tire wear and improve handling.
  • Ensure all wheel lugs are torqued to the exact manufacturer-recommended specifications using a calibrated torque wrench, a critical step for wheel security and vehicle safety.
  • Document all services performed accurately and meticulously on digital or paper repair orders, including parts used, tire details, and labor time for proper billing and service history tracking.
  • Manage and maintain tire inventory, which includes receiving new shipments, organizing stock by size and brand, and assisting with periodic inventory counts to maintain accurate records.
  • Install and service specialty tires, such as run-flat, low-profile, and high-performance tires, which require advanced techniques, specialized equipment, and exceptional care to avoid damage.
  • Safely operate and perform routine maintenance on all shop equipment, including tire changers, wheel balancers, vehicle lifts, and air compressors, ensuring they remain in optimal working condition.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment within the service bay, consistently adhering to all company safety protocols and OSHA standards.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by clearly explaining service details, addressing customer questions professionally, and ensuring their vehicle is treated with the utmost care.
  • Assist other technicians with complementary automotive services, such as oil changes, brake inspections, or battery replacements, to support team efficiency and meet shop workflow demands.
  • Participate actively in ongoing company-paid training and certification programs to stay current with new tire technology, vehicle systems, and evolving service procedures.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with service advisors and parts department staff to ensure a smooth workflow, accurate parts ordering, and timely completion of customer vehicles.
  • Test drive vehicles before and after service as required to verify repairs, diagnose issues like vibrations or pulling, and confirm that the customer's concern has been fully resolved.
  • Handle and dispose of scrap tires and other waste materials in strict accordance with all local, state, and federal environmental regulations and company policies.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Tire Mounting & Dismounting: Proficiency in using modern tire changing machines for various wheel sizes and tire types.
  • Wheel Balancing: Expertise in operating electronic wheel balancers to achieve precise static and dynamic balance.
  • Tire Repair: Knowledge of industry-standard patching and plugging techniques for safe and durable repairs.
  • TPMS Diagnostics: Ability to use TPMS tools to diagnose sensor faults, reset systems, and program new sensors.
  • Wheel Alignment: Understanding of suspension geometry and skill in using computerized alignment equipment.
  • Automotive Lift Operation: Safe and efficient operation of various types of vehicle lifts and floor jacks.
  • Torque Wrench Proficiency: Meticulous use of a calibrated torque wrench to apply correct torque specifications.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: A sharp eye for identifying subtle tire wear patterns, damage, and potential safety issues.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to diagnose vibrations, pulling, and other tire-related issues efficiently.
  • Physical Stamina & Strength: Capability to handle heavy tires and wheels and work on your feet for extended periods.
  • Time Management: The skill to work efficiently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment without compromising quality.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: A cooperative mindset to work effectively with other technicians, service advisors, and managers.
  • Commitment to Safety: A safety-first mentality, consistently following all procedures and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational or Technical Certificate in Automotive Technology.
  • TIA (Tire Industry Association) or other ASE certifications are highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Automotive Technology
  • Mechanics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0-2 years of hands-on experience in an automotive service environment, with a willingness to learn.

Preferred:

  • 1+ years of direct experience working as a Tire Technician. Proven experience with a wide variety of vehicle makes and models is a significant asset.
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