Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Licensed Automotive Technician

🎯 Role Definition

A Licensed Automotive Technician performs expert-level vehicle diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance to ensure safe, reliable operation of customer and fleet vehicles. Working to OEM specifications and industry best practices, the Technician independently troubleshoots complex mechanical and electrical issues, completes quality repairs, manages repair documentation, and communicates professionally with service advisors and customers. This role emphasizes safety, efficiency, continuous technical development (including hybrid/electric systems), and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Automotive Apprentice / Mechanic Helper
Entry-level Automotive Technician / Lube Technician
Vocational/Technical School Graduate (Automotive Technology)

Advancement To:

Lead Technician / Master Technician
Shop Foreman or Service Manager
Fleet Maintenance Manager or Technical Trainer

Lateral Moves:

Diagnostic Specialist / Electrical Specialist
Field Service Technician
Parts and Warranty Claims Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive vehicle diagnostics using handheld and OEM-level scan tools to identify engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, HVAC, body control module, and other electrical and electronic faults, documenting fault codes and step-by-step diagnostic procedures.
Conduct complete engine repairs and overhauls including timing systems, valve trains, fuel systems, intake/exhaust systems, and emissions components while following OEM service procedures and torque specifications.
Diagnose, service, and repair automatic and manual transmissions, clutches, driveline components, differentials, and transaxles; perform fluid exchanges, rebuilds, and adaptive learning procedures as required.
Inspect, diagnose, and repair braking systems including disc/drum brakes, ABS, electronic parking brakes, hydraulic systems, and perform precision brake testing and bed-in procedures.
Troubleshoot and repair vehicle electrical systems including charging systems, starter systems, wiring harness repairs, connectors, sensors, modules, and CAN bus networks with attention to grounding and shielding best practices.
Perform suspension and steering diagnostics and repairs including alignment correction, struts/shocks replacement, ball joints, tie rods, control arms, power steering systems, and electronic steering assist components.
Execute routine and preventive maintenance services (oil changes, filter replacement, fluid checks, tire rotation, multi-point inspections) to manufacturer-recommended intervals and documented service protocols.
Diagnose and repair HVAC systems including refrigerant recovery/charging (EPA 609 compliance), compressor/clutch replacement, heater cores, blower motors, and climate control module troubleshooting.
Perform scheduled manufacturer recall repairs, TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins), and warranty work per OEM guidelines, ensuring proper documentation and parts traceability.
Use precision measuring tools and alignment equipment to perform wheel alignments, steering geometry corrections, and suspension system calibrations to OEM tolerances.
Complete accurate vehicle inspections and emissions-related repairs, preparing detailed inspection reports and recommending cost-effective repair options consistent with safety and compliance requirements.
Use computerized shop management systems to create and update work orders, parts lists, labor time entries, and service notes; ensure timely ticket closure and efficient workflow.
Order, receive, and verify parts and warranties; work with parts department and vendors to expedite special-order components and track part return authorizations as needed.
Perform post-repair quality assurance checks and test drives to validate repair completeness, clear DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes), and confirm customer-reported concerns have been resolved.
Prepare clear, professional repair estimates and explain technical issues and recommended repairs to service advisors or customers in plain language, including options, costs, and safety implications.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment; adhere to all shop safety policies, PPE requirements, hazardous materials handling, and waste disposal procedures (including oil, coolant, and refrigerant).
Mentor and train junior technicians and apprentices on diagnostic techniques, safe tool usage, and OEM repair processes; contribute to continuous learning and skills development within the team.
Support fleet maintenance programs by performing preventive care, uptime-focused repairs, and record-keeping to maximize vehicle availability and reliability.
Stay current on new vehicle technologies, hybrid/electric systems, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and required calibration procedures, attending manufacturer training and certification programs as needed.
Perform ADAS recalibration (camera, radar, lane-keep assist) after collision repair or suspension and windshield replacement according to OEM procedures and calibration tools.
Accurately document labor hours, replaced parts, and diagnostic findings to support billing, warranty claims, and internal knowledge bases.
Collaborate with service writers, shop foremen, and parts personnel to prioritize work, manage repair timelines, and optimize throughput while maintaining quality standards.
Respond to roadside service calls or on-site repairs for commercial or fleet clients when required, performing safe diagnostics and temporary repairs to return vehicles to service.
Ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements, including refrigerant recovery, oil and solvent handling, and safety reporting.

Secondary Functions

Assist with inventory control, bin stocking, and cycle counts to maintain necessary parts availability and reduce downtime.
Contribute to shop safety audits, equipment maintenance schedules, and continuous improvement initiatives to increase productivity and reduce rework.
Support warranty claim submission and follow-up, preparing technical documentation and labor justification to expedite approvals.
Participate in customer follow-up calls or service reminders to confirm satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
Help maintain training records and certifications for the service team to ensure regulatory compliance and shop capability.
Participate in community outreach or dealership events as a technical representative to demonstrate expertise and build customer trust.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

ASE-certified technician credentials (ASE A1–A9 or equivalent) and experience adhering to ASE testing standards.
Proficient in OEM and aftermarket diagnostic software (e.g., Techstream, IDS, GDS, Mitchell, Alldata) and familiarity with manufacturer-specific factory scan tools.
Strong competence in engine diagnostics, fuel injection systems, ignition systems, and emissions control components.
Transmission and driveline repair skills including diagnostics, fluid service, and mechanical rebuilds for automatic and manual transmissions.
Advanced electrical diagnostics expertise: wiring diagrams, multimeter usage, oscilloscope testing, sensor/module replacement, and CAN bus troubleshooting.
HVAC system service and EPA 609 refrigerant handling and recovery certification.
ADAS calibration experience and understanding of Lidar, radar, and camera-based systems alignment procedures.
Proficiency with computerized shop management systems and digital work order entry, parts lookup, and labor time estimation.
Experience with wheel alignment equipment, torque tools, and precision measuring instruments.
Ability to read and interpret OEM service manuals, wiring schematics, and technical service bulletins.
Experience working on hybrid and electric vehicle systems, high-voltage safety protocols, and battery diagnostics (preferred).
Welding and fabrication skills for exhaust and body mount repairs (beneficial).
Familiarity with emissions testing processes and regulatory compliance.

Soft Skills

Excellent verbal communication and customer-facing skills; able to explain technical issues in simple, professional terms.
Strong problem-solving mindset with methodical diagnostic approach and attention to detail.
Time management and organizational skills to prioritize repairs and meet promised completion times.
Teamwork and collaboration with service advisors, parts personnel, and other technicians.
Professionalism, reliability, and a strong work ethic with a focus on safety and quality.
Adaptability and eagerness to learn new vehicle technologies and manufacturer processes.
Customer service orientation with empathy and the ability to de-escalate difficult situations.
Dependable record-keeping and documentation skills for warranty and audit support.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High school diploma or GED; vocational or technical training in automotive repair preferred.

Preferred Education:

Associate degree or certificate in Automotive Technology, Automotive Service Technology, or comparable accredited program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
Diesel Technology / Heavy Equipment (if fleet work included)
Electrical / Electromechanical Technology
Automotive Collision Repair (for ADAS and post-collision work)

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2–7 years of hands-on automotive repair experience; 3+ years preferred for master-level or specialized roles.

Preferred:

ASE certifications and manufacturer-specific training/certification.
Proven track record diagnosing complex electrical and drivability issues.
Experience with hybrid/electric vehicle systems, ADAS calibration, and OEM diagnostic tools.
Prior experience in dealership, independent shop, or fleet maintenance environment with documented performance and reliability.