Apprentice Technician

About the role

To be a team member of the Driven by Dobbs family, you must be dedicated to supporting the company’s mission, vision, and values. Our mission is to be the leader in the automotive tire and service aftermarket industry in every market we operate in, providing premier service to our guests. The position is classified under Operations. Driven by Dobbs brings together Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers (founded 1976 in South St. Louis, MO) and Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care (founded 1969 in Cleveland, OH), forming a rapidly expanding multi‑market automotive service organization that will operate across eight states by 2026. Across all locations, customers receive a full selection of quality tire brands and comprehensive automotive services, ranging from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics and engine repair. The company invests in training, development, safety, and team wellbeing to empower employees to deliver exceptional service daily, and supports local charities in the communities where teams live and work. The Apprentice Technician role involves diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles to ensure safe and reliable operation, including inspections, alignment adjustments, tire services, and general vehicle maintenance using specialized tools. The technician works with team members to maintain efficiency, quality, and safety standards, requiring attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and problem‑solving skills. The ideal candidate is detail‑driven, accountable, customer‑centric, a team player with a strong work ethic, and committed to contributing to department goals and achieving results.

Responsibilities

• 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.

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.

Skills

• A 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.
• A 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.