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Automotive Service Writer Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Service Writer information

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$12

$24

$40

How much do automotive service writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive service writer in Rochester, MN is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Automotive Service Writers?

Automotive Service Writers, also known as service advisors, act as the liaison between customers and the automotive repair shop. They are responsible for listening to customer concerns about their vehicles, communicating those concerns to mechanics, estimating repair costs, and explaining recommended services to customers. Service Writers ensure that customers receive accurate information, schedule repair appointments, and help maintain customer satisfaction throughout the repair process.

What Is an Automotive Service Writer?

As an automotive service writer, you work at a vehicle service center, and your primary responsibilities are to inspect customer vehicles, such as light trucks and cars, to determine their working condition and then calculate how much any necessary repairs would cost. Your job duties include talking to the customer to find out what needs to be repaired, conducting visual inspections of a vehicle’s engine and other systems, and writing a report of your findings to include a list of recommended services and repairs. You can also find automotive service writer jobs at government agencies and corporations that own large fleets of vehicles. Car dealerships with automotive service departments hire automotive service advisors as well.

How does an Automotive Service Writer typically collaborate with technicians and customers during the repair process?

An Automotive Service Writer acts as the communication bridge between customers and technicians. They gather detailed information about vehicle issues from customers, relay this information clearly to technicians, and keep both parties updated throughout the repair process. Service Writers also review completed work with technicians to ensure accuracy before explaining repairs and associated costs to customers, ensuring transparency and customer satisfaction. Effective collaboration requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

How much do Walmart auto service writers make?

Walmart auto service writers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $12 to $20, depending on experience and location. They often work in a retail environment with flexible schedules and may need basic automotive knowledge and customer service skills.

How to become a service writer for a dealership?

To become a service writer for a dealership, candidates typically need strong communication skills, basic automotive knowledge, and customer service experience. Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require familiarity with dealership management software. Gaining experience in automotive service or sales can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Automotive Service Writer vs Automotive Service Advisor?

AspectAutomotive Service WriterAutomotive Service Advisor
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDealerships, repair shopsDealerships, repair shops
Primary RoleWriting repair orders, communicating with customersDiagnosing vehicle issues, recommending repairs
Customer InteractionModerate; explains repairsHigh; discusses diagnostics and solutions

Automotive Service Writer and Automotive Service Advisor roles often overlap, focusing on customer communication and repair documentation. While both require strong communication skills and familiarity with automotive repairs, Service Writers primarily handle paperwork and customer service, whereas Service Advisors diagnose issues and recommend repairs. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does an automotive service writer do?

An automotive service writer acts as a liaison between customers and the service department, documenting vehicle issues, explaining repair options, and preparing work orders. They often use dealership management software and need good communication skills to ensure customer satisfaction and accurate service delivery.

How much do car writers make?

Automotive service writers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, with the average around $45,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and the dealership or repair shop size, and often include commissions or bonuses for upselling services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Service Writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Service Writer, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, strong customer service skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with shop management software, estimating tools, and basic computer systems is typically required. Excellent communication, active listening, and problem-solving abilities help build trust with customers and collaborate effectively with technicians. These skills ensure smooth workflow, accurate service documentation, and high customer satisfaction in a fast-paced automotive environment.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Service Writer jobs in Rochester, MN? For Automotive Service Writer jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Service Writer jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Service Writer jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Automotive Service Writer jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Automotive Service Writer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automotive Service Writer job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,042 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Service Writer / Advisor

Sanco Equipment

Stewartville, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Service Writer / Service Advisor
Location: Rochester, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Be the Connection Between Customers and Technicians
Sanco Equipment is looking for a highly organized, customer-focused Service Writer to join our growing team. This role is at the center of the customer service experience, helping customers get their equipment repaired quickly, accurately, and professionally.
As a Service Writer, you'll serve as the primary point of contact between customers, technicians, and the parts department. You'll coordinate repairs, communicate timelines, manage work orders, and ensure every customer receives exceptional service from check-in to completion.
If you enjoy solving problems, building relationships, and working in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Do
Customer Service & Communication
  • Greet customers and gather detailed information regarding equipment concerns
  • Create and manage repair orders from intake through invoicing
  • Communicate estimates, repair recommendations, approvals, and timelines
  • Provide proactive updates throughout the repair process
  • Schedule service appointments and coordinate equipment intake
  • Deliver an outstanding customer experience at every interaction
Service Coordination
  • Work closely with technicians to prioritize repairs and maintain workflow
  • Monitor repair progress and communicate delays or changes
  • Coordinate with the Parts Department to ensure parts availability
  • Assist with warranty documentation and manufacturer requirements
  • Review completed repair orders for accuracy before invoicing
  • Ensure repair information is documented clearly and accurately
Team Collaboration
  • Partner with sales, rental, parts, and service personnel to support customer needs
  • Help coordinate equipment setup, inspections, and service-related administration
  • Support preventative maintenance programs and service initiatives
  • Contribute to a positive, team-oriented work environment
What We're Looking For
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in customer service, service advising, equipment, automotive, agricultural, or related industries
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Mechanical aptitude and understanding of equipment repair processes preferred
  • Experience with service management, ERP, or dealership software systems preferred
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
  • Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
You Will Be Successful If You:
  • Enjoy helping customers and solving problems
  • Thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • Can effectively manage multiple priorities at once
  • Communicate clearly and professionally
  • Take ownership of customer concerns until they are resolved
  • Work well with both customers and technicians
Competitive Benefits Package
  • $3,000 sign on bonus!
  • Clothing, Boot and Safety eyewear allowance
  • Competitive pay
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Manufacturer training and professional development opportunities
  • Career advancement opportunities within a growing company
Work-Life Balance
  • Monday through Friday schedule
  • No weekends
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Stable and growing company with multiple locations
More Than a Desk Job
This role provides the opportunity to work closely with customers, equipment, technicians, and dealership operations while building valuable skills in customer service, service management, and equipment support.
About Sanco Equipment
Sanco Equipment provides equipment sales, rentals, parts, and service throughout Minnesota and Iowa. We proudly support contractors, municipalities, agricultural operations, landscapers, and industrial customers with industry-leading equipment and customer service.
If you're looking for a career where your mechanical knowledge, customer service skills, and attention to detail can make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.