Automotive Apprentice Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Summary 

An Automotive Technician exemplifies professional integrity, strong teamwork skills, extensive knowledge of the automotive industry, excellent automotive diagnostic and repair knowledge and skills, utilization of the latest technology, tools, and equipment, and a passion for delivering quality work, exceptional customer service, and exceeding business goals while supporting the daily operations of the business. An automotive Technician must exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters that significantly impact business operations. 

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities 

• Conduct comprehensive vehicle inspections to identify potential mechanical, electrical, maintenance, or other automotive needs and safety concerns. 
• Complete repairs and maintenance tasks efficiently and accurately, including engine repairs, brake repairs, suspension repairs, and other mechanical services. 
• Utilize diagnostic equipment, technical manuals, and computerized systems to diagnose and troubleshoot complex automotive problems efficiently and accurately.
• Perform routine maintenance services, such as oil changes, tire rotations, fluid flushes, filter replacements, and more, to ensure vehicle reliability and longevity.
• Ensure all repair and maintenance work meets manufacturer specifications and industry standards for quality and safety.
• Perform quality control checks and test-drive vehicles to verify repairs and diagnose any remaining issues.
• Immediately raise any accidents or other service issues that require service work beyond what was originally scheduled or otherwise raise safety concerns to the Store Manager or Service Manager.  
• Complete test drives correctly and in accordance with company policy, procedures, safety best practices, and traffic laws.
• Prepare and maintain thorough, consistent, and accurate inspection records in accordance with company procedures and best practices.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with customers to explain repair recommendations, provide estimates, and address any questions or concerns.
• Provide legendary customer service and ensure customer satisfaction by promptly providing accurate and quality automotive services and maintaining a professional and courteous demeanor.
• Collaborate with management and other team members to coordinate workflow and ensure efficient service delivery.
• Assist and mentor junior technicians and apprentices as needed, sharing knowledge and expertise to support their development.
• Abide by and promote workplace safety requirements and best practices to minimize and reduce workplace safety concerns, injuries, and damages, and maximize team compliance with OSHA and company safety policies, procedures, and industry best practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company policies and OSHA regulations.
• Stay current on industry trends, technology advancements, and regulatory changes affecting automotive repair and safety.
• Collaborate with the Store Manager and senior management to develop and execute business plans, directives, initiatives, programs, budgets, and more.
• Support the Store Manager in fostering a strong, inclusive, and cohesive team environment and culture to effectively value and develop employees, exceed business goals, and provide legendary customer service.
• Perform other duties as assigned.  

Supervisory Responsibilities 

• None 

Required Competencies 

• Strong sense of integrity.
• Excellent active listening skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, diplomacy, and customer service skills.
• Extensive knowledge of the automotive industry.
• Strong technical knowledge of automotive systems, diagnostics, and repair procedures.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with computer and software systems.
• Proficiency in diagnostic tools and equipment, including scan tools, multimeters, and computerized diagnostic software, and Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI).
• Strong and clear understanding and knowledge of the proper use of shop equipment, tools, and fluids.
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing automotive technologies, methods, and best practices.
• Proficient in inventory and expense management.
• Ability to thrive in a high-paced sales environment.
• Ability to provide and receive constructive feedback.
• Ability to manage priorities, multitask, and complete objectives with minimal supervision.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance expectations. 

Required Education, Credentials, and Experience 

• The minimum age requirement of eighteen years.  
• An active and unrestricted driver’s license is required. 
• A high school diploma or equivalent; completion of automotive technical training program preferred. 
• A minimum of one year of related experience is preferred. 
• Prior industry knowledge and/or experience is required. 
• ASE or other relevant certifications preferred. 

Work Authorization & Employment Eligibility 

• Must be legally authorized to work within the United States while employed by Leeds West Groups. 
• Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and ability to maintain a clean driving record.  

Workplace Culture, Conduct, and Expectations 

In support of a positive, professional, safe workplace culture and environment, we adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, alcohol, weapons, violence, harassment, or discrimination in accordance withour company policies and employment laws, as applicable. Additionally, employees are expected to conduct themselves positively, respectfully, ethically, and professionally. 

Work Environment 

This job operates in a fast-paced automotive retail and repair environment where employees are regularly exposed to indoor and outdoor climates and changing temperatures, automotive tools, equipment, fluids, and chemicals.  The proper enforcement and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), adherence to uniform standards, and compliance with OSHA safe workplace standards are required. 

Physical Demands 

This position requires physical strength, agility, dexterity, and endurance to successfully perform the essential job functions in a demanding and dynamic environment.  

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, reaching, driving, climbing, and other repetitive motions; frequent lifting and carrying heavy parts and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds or more; physical endurance to work long hours in a fast-paced environment, often under tight deadlines; precise hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity; and adequate vision, hearing and speaking abilities. 

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work 
This full-time, overtime-exempt, onsite position requires at least 32 hours per week. Business operations are Monday through Saturday and Sunday at various locations. Hours of operation and days of work may vary by location, business needs, and work schedules. This position regularly requires long hours and frequent weekend work.  

Travel 

This position requires up to 25% travel between local stores. Overnight travel requirements are less than 5% unless on a particular assignment. Travel and mileage reimbursements may apply, subject to Company policy.  

Equal Employment Opportunities 

Leeds West Groups provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and employment applicants without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws. 

Leeds West Groups meets all its obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and state and local disabilities laws. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs. For questions about the reasonable accommodations process or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources. 

Other Duties 

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.