Company Overview
[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]
Role Overview
[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking a Lead Auto Technician to own diagnostic strategy, repair quality, and technical leadership for our service operations in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. As the senior technical authority in the shop, you will lead complex powertrain, chassis, and electrical diagnostics; define repair standards; optimize shop throughput using KPI-driven processes; and mentor technicians to raise repair accuracy and first-time fix rates. This is a hands-on leadership role combining advanced diagnostics, technical coaching, parts and warranty coordination, and shop workflow optimization.
Responsibilities
- Lead advanced diagnostics and repairs for internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles, including engine management, transmission systems, high-voltage battery systems, CAN bus networks, ADAS calibrations, and HVAC systems
- Perform and document root-cause analysis for complex drivability, electrical, and intermittent faults using OEM diagnostic tools (factory scan tools), oscilloscopes, multimeters, and scope-recording modules
- Develop and enforce Repair Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); author technical job aids and diagnostic decision trees to reduce misdiagnosis and warranty rework
- Oversee warranty and recall repair execution: generate detailed repair orders, manage claim documentation, and liaise with warranty administrators and parts suppliers
- Mentor and train technicians on advanced diagnostics, safety protocols for high-voltage systems, ADAS calibration procedures, and efficient use of diagnostic platforms (e.g., OEM Techstream, IDS, GDS, WDS)
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase throughput, reduce cycle time, improve first-time fix rate (FTFR), and lower comebacks using data from shop management systems (DMS) and telematics diagnostics
- Coordinate parts procurement and inventory with parts team to minimize downtime; recommend stocking levels for high-failure items and specialty tooling
- Ensure compliance with shop safety, EPA refrigerant handling (Section 609), DOT hazardous material, and OEM service and recall protocols
- Lead shop-level technical escalation process and represent the shop in cross-functional technical reviews with service managers, parts, and OEM technical support
Required and Preferred Qualifications
Required:
- ASE Master Technician certification or equivalent; advanced OEM certifications strongly preferred
- 7+ years of professional automotive diagnostic and repair experience, including at least 2 years in a lead/mentor role
- Demonstrated expertise with vehicle electrical systems, CAN/LIN bus diagnostics, engine and transmission control systems, and ADAS calibration workflows
- Hands-on experience with OEM factory scan tools, commercial diagnostic platforms, oscilloscopes, and data-logging tools
- Proven ability to author and enforce SOPs, conduct technical trainings, and lead technical troubleshooting sessions
- Strong documentation skills: ability to produce clear repair orders, technical reports, and warranty claims
- Valid driver's license and ability to test drive vehicles as required
Preferred:
- Certification or documented experience working on hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) systems, including high-voltage safety procedures
- Experience calibrating ADAS sensors using lidar/vision calibration rigs and alignment systems
- Familiarity with shop management systems (CDK, Reynolds & Reynolds, Dealertrack) and DMS integrations
- Experience with telematics and over-the-air diagnostic platforms
- EPA Section 609 certification for refrigerant handling and HVAC diagnostics
Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies
- Advanced diagnostics: oscilloscope waveform analysis, CAN bus traffic capture and interpretation, PIDs and freeze-frame analysis
- OEM factory scan tools and service information systems (e.g., Techstream, GDS2, IDS, wiTECH)
- ADAS calibration equipment and procedures for radar, lidar, and camera-based systems
- Powertrain and transmission diagnostics, including adaptions, relearns, and bi-directional control testing
- Electrical system repair: wiring repair, connector diagnostics, BMS basics for EVs, and high-voltage safety protocols
- Shop tooling: alignment racks, brake lathes, lift systems, battery service tools, refrigerant recovery machines
- Data and workflow tools: DMS, OEM e-learn platforms, parts catalog systems, and telematics diagnostic portals
Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
- Leadership: track record of leading technical teams, setting measurable performance goals, and conducting architecture decision records for repair processes
- Communication: clear, technician-to-management reporting and the ability to present technical findings to non-technical stakeholders
- Coaching mindset: demonstrated experience mentoring junior technicians and delivering structured technical training
- Quality orientation: obsessive attention to repair quality, documentation accuracy, and continuous reduction of comebacks
- Data-driven: comfortable using KPIs (FTFR, cycle time, ticket hours per RO) to drive operational decisions
- Safety-first attitude: enforces PPE, lockout/tagout, and high-voltage isolation procedures consistently
Benefits and Perks
Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]
Comprehensive benefits package may include:
- Competitive base salary plus performance-based incentives
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off, paid parental leave, and paid training/certification reimbursement
- Tool allowance and access to advanced diagnostic tooling
- Opportunities for career progression into Service Manager, Technical Trainer, or Regional Technical Specialist roles
Equal Opportunity Statement
[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups and those whose experience may not match every listed requirement to apply.
Location
This is an on-site position based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. The Lead Auto Technician will be expected to perform hands-on work in the shop and may be required to travel locally for training, calibrations, or technical escalations.
Application Instructions
We encourage applicants to apply even if they do not meet every listed qualification. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting recent diagnostic projects, leadership experience, and relevant certifications. Candidates who demonstrate strong problem-solving ability, a commitment to safety, and willingness to learn will be seriously considered.