Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Lube Tech

💰 $25,000 - $45,000

AutomotiveMaintenanceService

🎯 Role Definition

We are seeking a reliable, safety-focused Lube Technician to perform oil changes, fluid exchanges, chassis lubrication, and basic vehicle inspections in a fast-paced quick-lube or service shop. The Lube Tech ensures customer satisfaction through efficient service delivery, accurate maintenance work, professional communication, and strict adherence to environmental and safety regulations. This role is ideal for someone with mechanical aptitude, good physical stamina, and excellent customer-facing skills who wants to grow in automotive maintenance and service.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Automotive Service Helper or Lot Attendant
  • High school graduate or vocational trade school graduate
  • Military vehicle mechanic or technician

Advancement To:

  • Senior Lube Technician / Lead Technician
  • General Service Technician / Mechanic
  • Shop Foreman / Service Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Tire and Alignment Technician
  • Parts Counter Specialist
  • Warranty and Service Advisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform routine oil and filter changes for gasoline, diesel and hybrid vehicles, including correct specification selection for conventional and synthetic oils and proper disposal of used oil consistent with environmental regulations.
  • Conduct complete vehicle fluid checks and top-offs (coolant, transmission, differential, power steering, windshield washer) and document fluid condition and levels for technician review.
  • Operate fluid exchange and extraction equipment to perform transmission, coolant, and power steering fluid exchanges following manufacturer procedures and shop protocols.
  • Inspect and visually assess brakes, suspension components, belts, hoses, lights, wipers, and exhaust systems; report any safety concerns or recommended repairs to the service advisor with clear, prioritized documentation.
  • Lubricate chassis and suspension points using grease guns and OEM-recommended lubricants, maintaining internal lubricant logs and ensuring correct grease types for each application.
  • Remove, inspect and replace air filters, fuel filters and cabin filters according to service intervals, verifying part numbers and fitment.
  • Check and adjust tire pressure, measure tread depth, and perform minor tire services (rotate tires, inflate, install valve stems) or refer to tire specialists when needed.
  • Perform battery inspection and basic battery testing using industry-standard testers, clean battery terminals, and reinstall or recommend replacement when necessary.
  • Change and tighten oil drain plugs and oil filter cartridges using correct torque techniques to prevent leaks and cross-threading; properly seal and label disposed oil filters for recycling.
  • Conduct multi-point vehicle inspections (MPIs) and generate clear, customer-friendly inspection reports and recommendations to support upsell and preventive maintenance strategies.
  • Follow shop safety protocols and OSHA guidelines while using personal protective equipment (PPE), maintaining safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.
  • Accurately complete work orders, record labor and parts used, and process customer electronic signatures when applicable through POS and shop management systems.
  • Communicate professionally and clearly with customers at check-in and check-out, explaining performed services, observed issues, and recommended next steps to build trust and repeat business.
  • Maintain and calibrate shop tools and diagnostic equipment, escalate tool malfunctions to management, and ensure cleanliness and organization of service bays and lube equipment.
  • Manage shop environmental responsibilities including proper labeling, storage and disposal of used oil, antifreeze, used filters and other automotive fluids in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Assist technicians and mechanics with light mechanical tasks (drain and fill procedures, basic part removal, reassembly) to support efficient shop workflow and minimize vehicle downtime.
  • Participate in training on new service procedures, product updates (synthetic blends, fuel system treatments), and safety refreshers to continuously improve technical competency.
  • Inspect and secure undercarriage and oil pan areas for rust, leaks, or damage; report structural or leak issues immediately to senior technicians for further diagnosis.
  • Proactively upsell recommended maintenance items (air filters, wiper blades, fuel system treatments) in a customer-focused manner that emphasizes safety and value.
  • Maintain inventory accuracy by verifying and restocking common lube supplies (filters, oils, grease, funnels, rags) and notifying management of low or obsolete items.
  • Ensure rapid, high-quality service delivery during peak hours by managing time efficiently, prioritizing work orders, and coordinating with front counter staff to meet customer expectations.

Secondary Functions

  • Support record keeping for warranty work and service history, ensuring timestamps, technician initials, and part numbers are accurately recorded.
  • Assist in cleaning and maintaining the customer waiting area, service lanes, and outside service parking to present a professional shop image.
  • Participate in shop safety audits and environmental compliance inspections, addressing corrective actions as directed by management.
  • Help load and unload parts deliveries, verify shipments against purchase orders, and return defective parts following vendor policies.
  • Provide mentoring and on-the-job training to new lube technicians, sharing best practices for fast, accurate oil changes and inspections.
  • Engage in cross-training opportunities such as tire service, basic diagnostics and light mechanical repairs to broaden skillset and support business needs.
  • Support marketing/promotional events by providing on-site quick checks or demonstrations (e.g., fluid check stations) when requested by store management.
  • Assist service advisors by preparing vehicles for additional diagnostic work, moving vehicles safely within shop premises, and staging vehicles for detailing or inspection.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficient in performing oil and filter changes for gasoline, diesel and hybrid vehicles, including correct oil selection and disposal.
  • Experience operating fluid exchange and extraction equipment for transmissions, coolants and power steering systems.
  • Strong knowledge of basic vehicle systems: braking, suspension, steering, cooling, exhaust and electrical.
  • Competent with grease guns, torque wrenches, battery testers, air compressors and shop lifts/hoists (when trained).
  • Ability to perform multi-point inspections (MPIs) and document findings with accurate part numbers and service recommendations.
  • Familiarity with OSHA, EPA and local environmental regulations for handling and disposing of automotive fluids and hazardous waste.
  • Comfortable using shop management software, electronic work order systems and point-of-sale (POS) terminals to log services and collect payments.
  • Skilled at basic diagnostic checks: visual inspections, fluid color/condition analysis, battery load testing and tire pressure/tread measurement.
  • Knowledge of OEM maintenance schedules and ability to recommend manufacturer-recommended service intervals and parts.
  • Experience with inventory control of lube supplies, ordering common parts, and tracking part usage.
  • Basic hand tool proficiency: sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and filter wrenches.

Soft Skills

  • Excellent customer service and communication skills; able to explain technical issues in plain language.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in performing inspections and completing work orders.
  • Time management and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
  • Team player who collaborates with service advisors, technicians and management to optimize workflow.
  • Reliability and punctuality with a professional demeanor and good attendance record.
  • Problem-solving mindset and initiative to escalate or correct issues when encountered.
  • Physical stamina, able to stand, bend, lift and perform repetitive tasks safely throughout a shift.
  • Integrity and trustworthiness when handling cash, customer vehicles and confidential information.
  • Adaptability to changing priorities, seasonal demand and new product/service rollouts.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational certificate in automotive service or completion of a technical/trade school program.
  • ASE entry-level certifications or manufacturer-specific short courses for quick-lube service.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Automotive Technology
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Vocational/Technical Training in Vehicle Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • Entry-level to 3 years of hands-on experience in quick-lube, oil change, or general automotive service roles.

Preferred:

  • 1–2 years of experience performing regular oil changes, fluid exchanges and multi-point inspections in a retail or dealership quick-lube environment.
  • Experience with EPA/OSHA compliant waste oil handling and shop safety programs.
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