Apprentice Technician
About the role
Driven by Dobbs is a rapidly expanding, multi-market automotive service organization operating across eight states. Our family of brands—Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers and Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care—provides a full selection of quality tire brands and comprehensive automotive services, from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics and engine repair. We invest in training, development, safety, and team wellbeing to empower our people to deliver exceptional service every day.
Responsibilities
- Diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles to ensure safe and reliable operation.
- Perform inspections, alignment adjustments, tire services, and general vehicle maintenance using specialized automotive tools and equipment.
- Develop and apply growing mechanical knowledge of engine operations, cooling systems, brakes, steering and suspension, HVAC, and general vehicle maintenance.
- Assist with and perform basic automotive repairs under supervision.
- Shadow and learn from experienced team members, including Technicians, Master Technicians, and Alignment Technicians.
- Support shop operations by maintaining tools, equipment, and a clean work environment.
- Follow all safety procedures and company standards while completing assigned tasks.
Success factors
- Strong belief in safety—being safe 100% of the time is the expectation.
- Alignment with company mission, vision, and values.
- Strong work ethic with a commitment to results.
- Strong team player with the ability to adapt to diverse team members.
- Ability to perform in a fast-paced/high-volume environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- High level of time management, accountability, and prioritization skills.
- Ability to be organized, problem solve, and be solution oriented.
- Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and driven to accomplish department goals.
- Strong critical thinker with a high level of attention to detail.
- Demonstrates curiosity and motivation to build technical knowledge and improve skills.
- Highly customer-centric and master relationship builder.
- Demonstrates a strong understanding of automotive systems and uses diagnostic equipment with accuracy.
- Maintains a professional, can-do approach even in physically demanding or fast-paced situations.
Work environment
Fast-paced automotive service environment with frequent exposure to varying temperatures, automotive chemicals (solvents, lubricants, fluids), and extended periods of standing, bending, and lifting tires or equipment. Requires adherence to all safety procedures and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Involves teamwork, reliability, and effective communication to maintain a safe and efficient workplace.
Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in automotive repair or 2–4 years of hands-on training in automotive maintenance.
- 1+ year of experience as an alignment technician or completion of a post-secondary vocational program in automotive technology.
- Extensive knowledge of tire installation, wheel balancing, and diagnosing ride disturbances.
- Growing knowledge of steering, suspension, and general vehicle maintenance.
- Proficient in the use of standard automotive diagnostic tools and repair equipment.
- Solid understanding of automotive systems and repair procedures.
- Valid driver’s license required.