Assistant Service Manager / Service Advisor

South Western Motor Sales, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

South Western Motor Sales, Inc. is seeking an organized, customer-focused Assistant Service Manager / Service Advisor to be the primary contact between customers and our service department.

No prior experience required—we are willing to train the right candidate. You will greet customers, document vehicle symptoms, schedule appointments, explain estimates, obtain approvals, and keep customers informed on progress and costs.

Qualifications

• Experience in automotive service is preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently, multitask and stay organized.
• Attention to detail and reliable follow-through.
• Comfort with computers and dealership software.

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and document vehicle symptoms and service requests.
• Schedule appointments and coordinate with technicians.
• Explain estimates, next steps, and completion times.
• Obtain customer authorization before repairs.
• Keep customers informed of progress and costs.
• Assist Service Manager with daily operations.
• Maintain accurate service records and paperwork.
• Support a clean, organized service drive.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Organization

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Follow-through

Teamwork

Independent work

Dealership software

Tools

Dealership software

Job description

We are seeking an organized, customer-focused Assistant Service Manager / Service Advisor to join our automotive dealership team. This position serves as the primary contact between customers and our service department, helping customers understand their vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs while supporting efficient daily operations. Previous experience is preferred but not required—we are willing to train the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet customers, listen to their concerns, and accurately document vehicle symptoms and service requests.
• Schedule appointments and coordinate with technicians and service management to maintain an organized workflow.
• Prepare repair orders and explain recommended services, estimates, and expected completion times.
• Obtain customer authorization before performing repairs or additional work.
• Keep customers informed about repair progress, changes in cost, and completion times.
• Review technician recommendations with customers and explain maintenance and repair options clearly.
• Verify warranty or service contract coverage and follow required approval procedures.
• Ensure repair orders accurately reflect work performed, parts used, and applicable charges.
• Address customer questions and concerns professionally, involving service management when needed.
• Assist the Service Manager with daily department operations and follow-up on outstanding work.
• Maintain accurate records and follow dealership policies and manufacturer procedures.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming service drive.

Qualifications

• Automotive dealership or service advising experience preferred, but not required.
• Previous customer service, sales, or hospitality experience is a plus.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently, multitask, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and strong follow-through.
• Comfortable using computers and learning dealership software.
• Willingness to learn automotive maintenance, repair terminology, and dealership processes.
• Professional appearance and a dependable, team-oriented attitude.
• Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record if driving is required for the position.

Physical Requirements

This position involves working at a computer, standing, walking, and moving throughout the service department. Must be able to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.