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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Journeyman Automotive Service Technician

💰 $ - $

AutomotiveTechnicianMaintenance

🎯 Role Definition

We are seeking an experienced Journeyman Automotive Service Technician to perform in-depth diagnostics, repair, and preventive maintenance on light- and medium-duty vehicles. This role requires strong technical troubleshooting, hands-on mechanical skills, ASE-style standards, and clear customer communication. The ideal candidate will reliably complete complex repairs, adhere to safety and quality standards, and contribute to shop productivity and continuous improvement.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Entry-level or Apprentice Automotive Technician (0–2 years)
  • Service Apprentice / Lube Technician
  • Vocational or technical school graduate (Automotive Technology)

Advancement To:

  • Senior or Master Technician
  • Shop Foreman / Lead Technician
  • Service Manager / Fleet Maintenance Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Diagnostic Specialist / Electric Vehicle (EV) Technician
  • Mobile Repair Technician
  • Warranty & Repair Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform comprehensive vehicle diagnostics using scan tools, oscilloscopes and other computerized diagnostic equipment to identify root causes of engine, transmission, ABS, TPMS, air conditioning and electrical complaints and produce clear repair plans.
  • Diagnose and repair complex engine mechanical issues including timing systems, fuel delivery, variable valve timing, turbochargers and engine control systems to OEM tolerances, documenting findings and parts required.
  • Service and rebuild transmissions (automatic and manual) including clutch systems, solenoids, valve bodies, seals and fluid service according to manufacturer procedures and safety guidelines.
  • Diagnose and repair electrical and electronic systems including charging systems, starter systems, wiring harness faults, module replacement, CAN bus communication issues and sensor testing using wiring diagrams and multimeters.
  • Perform brake system inspections, diagnostics and repairs including ABS systems, rotors, caliper replacement, hydraulic diagnostics, brake line repairs and proper torqueing and brake fluid management.
  • Perform scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) and multi-point inspections, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, suspension checks and document recommended repairs and safety items.
  • Troubleshoot HVAC/A/C systems, perform refrigerant recovery, leak detection, compressor and condenser replacement and perform evacuation and recharge procedures compliant with environmental regulations.
  • Perform suspension, steering and alignment repairs including ball joints, tie rods, control arms, struts and wheel alignment checks to meet ride, handling and safety specifications.
  • Conduct emissions and drivability diagnostics using live data, freeze frame analysis and smoke testing, then complete required repairs to meet state/local emissions standards and inspectable criteria.
  • Inspect and repair driveability complaints such as rough idle, stalling, misfires and poor fuel economy using road tests, live data and component testing to isolate faults and validate repairs.
  • Execute tire and wheel servicing including mounting/balancing, tire repairs, sensor replacement (TPMS), and final torque specification checks to ensure safe operation.
  • Read and interpret OEM service information, technical bulletins, wiring diagrams and recall notices to apply correct repair procedures and update repair documentation accordingly.
  • Maintain accurate repair orders, time entries, parts usage and diagnostic notes in the shop management system to provide clear invoicing and warranty support.
  • Perform preventative and corrective welding, fabrication and exhaust work where required, following safety procedures and using appropriate tooling and materials.
  • Communicate clearly with service advisors and customers to explain diagnoses, repair options, cost estimates, recommended preventive actions and expected repair timelines.
  • Execute vehicle test drives pre- and post-repair to validate repairs, reproduce intermittent faults and ensure customer satisfaction and safety compliance.
  • Complete warranty and quality control paperwork, recheck intervals, and follow-up on returned-vehicle issues to ensure service quality and minimize comebacks.
  • Use and maintain shop tools, diagnostic equipment and specialty service tools, performing routine calibration and ensuring all equipment is in safe working condition.
  • Mentor junior technicians and apprentices by demonstrating diagnostic methodology, safety best practices and efficient workflow techniques in a team-oriented environment.
  • Follow OSHA, DOT and company safety policies including proper disposal of hazardous materials, safe handling of refrigerants, high-voltage safety procedures for hybrid/EV systems and personal protective equipment (PPE) use.
  • Manage parts ordering, inventory checks and liaise with parts suppliers to ensure timely delivery of parts, verify warranty part coverage and minimize vehicle downtime.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives such as 5S, throughput optimization, and shop efficiency programs to reduce repair time and improve customer experience.
  • Adapt to new vehicle technologies including hybrid, start/stop, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration, and EV high-voltage systems, completing required manufacturer training when necessary.

Secondary Functions

  • Support the service team with after-hours on-call repairs or emergency fleet breakdowns as required.
  • Assist in documenting common diagnostic procedures and create standardized repair checklists for recurring faults.
  • Participate in regular safety briefings and contribute observations from day-to-day repairs to improve shop safety protocols.
  • Collaborate with the parts department to identify core charges, returnable parts and cost-saving alternatives that meet quality standards.
  • Provide input on tools and equipment purchases based on frequent diagnostic needs and manufacturer tool lists.
  • Help coordinate apprentice training schedules and recommend hands-on tasks that accelerate learning in real-world repairs.
  • Assist service management with workload planning by providing accurate time-to-repair estimates and flagging complex diagnostic jobs early.
  • Contribute to customer retention efforts by delivering professional follow-up calls for post-repair satisfaction checks and identifying additional service opportunities.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • ASE-certified competencies (ASE A1–A9, or equivalent) and experience performing tests to ASE standards.
  • Proficient use of OEM and aftermarket diagnostic scanners, manufacturer software, data logging and live data analysis.
  • Strong electrical diagnosis skills: reading wiring diagrams, tracing harness faults, measuring voltage/continuity and working with modules.
  • Transmission diagnosis and repair experience, including clutch service, torque converter, solenoid and fluid maintenance.
  • Engine repair and rebuild experience including timing systems, cylinder head work, compression testing and fuel system repair.
  • HVAC/A/C diagnosis and refrigerant handling with EPA Section 608 certification or equivalent.
  • Hybrid and EV high-voltage system awareness and safety procedures, including HV interlock testing and isolation verification.
  • Proven ability to perform brake and ABS diagnostics, rotor and caliper service, and hydraulic system troubleshooting.
  • Experience with alignment processes, suspension repair and wheel-end servicing.
  • Competency with shop management systems (e.g., Mitchell1, DealerTrack, Identifix, AllData) for repair orders and parts management.
  • Proficiency in tire mounting/balancing, TPMS service and wheel torque specifications.
  • Familiarity with emissions systems, OBD-II diagnostics, and state inspection procedures.
  • Welding, fabrication and basic exhaust system repair skills (MIG/TIG/basic brazing).
  • Knowledge of safety protocols (OSHA, DOT), hazardous waste handling, and proper disposal of automotive fluids and refrigerants.

Soft Skills

  • Strong verbal communication and customer-facing skills to explain technical issues and repair options in plain language.
  • Problem-solving mindset with methodical diagnostic reasoning and attention to detail.
  • Time management and productivity focus to meet promised repair windows and service-level targets.
  • Team collaboration and mentorship capability to help train junior technicians and share best practices.
  • Adaptability and continuous learning attitude to stay current with rapidly evolving automotive technologies.
  • Professionalism and customer service orientation that builds trust and repeat business.
  • Reliability and strong work ethic with attendance and punctuality suitable for a shop environment.
  • Organizational skills for maintaining clean workspaces, tool inventory and accurate documentation.
  • Safety-first mindset to proactively identify hazards and follow protocols without exception.
  • Accountability for quality control and willingness to accept feedback and perform rework when necessary.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED; basic algebra and reading comprehension sufficient for technical manuals.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational or technical school certificate/associate degree in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology or related field.
  • Manufacturer-specific training or journeyman certification programs.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Automotive Technology
  • Diesel Technology
  • Electrical/Electronics Technology
  • Mechanical Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3 to 6 years of hands-on automotive repair experience, including 1–2 years performing diagnostics independently.

Preferred:

  • 5+ years of professional repair experience with ASE certifications and/or manufacturer-certified training, experience with late-model electronics, hybrid/EV familiarity and documented success reducing comebacks and improving shop throughput.
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