Apprentice Technician

DOBBS TIRE & AUTO CENTERS; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers is seeking an Automotive Apprentice Technician to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles under supervision. You will learn from experienced technicians and contribute to safety, quality, and efficiency in a fast-paced shop environment.

The role emphasizes growing mechanical knowledge, tire and wheel services, and collaboration with the team to meet department goals and provide premier service to guests.

Qualifications

• 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.

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.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Team player

Customer-centric

Education

Post-secondary vocational program in automotive technology

Tools

Automotive diagnostic tools

Alignments equipment

Job description

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:

To be the leader in the automotive tire and service aftermarket industry in every market that we operate in providing premier service to our guests.

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Driven by Dobbs, our family of brands brings together Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers—founded in 1976 in South St. Louis, MO as a family-owned complete auto care provider—and Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care, founded in 1969 in Cleveland, OH. Together, we have grown into a rapidly expanding, multi-market automotive service organization that willoperateacross eight states in 2026, with continued growth on the horizon. Across all locations, customers can expect a full selection of quality tire brands and comprehensive automotive services, ranging from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics and engine repair. Our investment in training, development, safety, and overall team wellbeing empowers our people to deliver exceptional service every day. Rooted in a culture that extends beyond the shop, we proudly support local organizations and charities in the communities where our teams live and work.

We areseeking anApprenticeTechnician.The AutomotiveApprenticeTechnicianis responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles to ensure safe and reliable operation. This includes performing inspections, alignment adjustments, tire services, and general vehicle maintenance using specialized automotive tools and equipment. The technician works closely with team members to maintain efficiency, quality, and safety standards in the shop. Attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills are essential to accurately identify issues and complete repairs.The ideal candidate will be detaileddriven, accountable, customercentric and a team player with a strong work ethic to contribute to the department goals and achieve results.

ROLES AND 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.

SUCCESS FACTORS:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Frequent exposure to varying temperatures due to the nature of the work and shop conditions.
• Regular contact with automotive chemicals, including solvents, lubricants, and fluids used in vehicle maintenance and repair.
• 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.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality service are essential for success.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

• 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.

Driven by Dobbs is an equal opportunity employer. All candidates agree to complete a selection assessment and pre-employment screenings.

Signature: _________________________Date: _________________________