Automotive 4x4 Upfitter

Acela Truck Company; Bozeman (MT); On-site; USD 48,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Acela Truck Company in Bozeman, MT, is seeking an Automotive 4x4 Upfitter / Technician to install, modify, maintain, repair, and inspect vehicles, with focus on Jeeps and light- to medium-duty trucks. The role involves lift kit work, tire services, and aftermarket installations in a fast-paced shop environment.

The candidate should have hands-on automotive experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently or as part of a production team while adhering to quality and

Qualifications

• Hands-on automotive repair experience preferred.
• Experience with tires, wheels, suspension systems, or vehicle upfitting.
• Ability to read work orders and follow manufacturer specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Mount and dismount tires and balance wheels per specs.
• Install lift kits, leveling kits, and suspension components.
• Install aftermarket wheels and 4x4 accessories.
• Perform maintenance, repairs, inspections, and troubleshooting on trucks and Jeeps.
• Follow safety procedures and quality standards.

Skills

Automotive repair

Tire & wheel services

Suspension systems

Lift kit installations

Vehicle upfitting

Diagnostics

Safety procedures

Tools

Tire mounting equipment

Wheel balancers

Torque wrenches

Vehicle lifts

Pneumatic tools

Diagnostic equipment

Job description

Automotive 4x4 Upfitter / Technician

Appointment Type: Full‑Time, Non‑Exempt

Salary: TBD – Based on Experience

Company Overview

Acela Truck Company is a fast-growing manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks, including new vehicles and the refurbishment(“resetting”) of military wheeled vehicles. Acela is a fast-paced, process-driven organization that embraces lean manufacturing, clear communication, and a culture where employees are empowered to contribute to their own success and the overall success of the company.

Position Summary

The Automotive 4x4 Upfitter / Technician is responsible for installing, modifying, maintaining, repairing, and inspecting vehicles and automotive components, with an emphasis on 4x4 vehicles, Jeeps, and light- to medium-duty trucks. This position performs tire mounting and balancing, lift kit installations, suspension upgrades, aftermarket accessory installations, and general mechanical work to ensure vehicles meet customer specifications, manufacturer requirements, and Acela Truck Company’s quality and safety standards.

The ideal candidate has hands-on automotive experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently and as part of a production team in a fast‑paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Tire and Wheel Services

• Mount and dismount tires on a variety of wheels and tire sizes, including standard, oversized, and off-road tires.
• Operate tire mounting machines, wheel balancers, and related shop equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform dynamic and static wheel balancing as required to ensure proper vehicle performance and minimize vibration.
• Inspect tires, wheels, and related components for damage, wear, and proper fitment.
• Install and torque wheels using manufacturer specifications and approved procedures.
• Verify tire size, wheel compatibility, offset, load ratings, and fitment for vehicle applications.
• Perform tire rotations, pressure checks, and other related tire and wheel services as needed.

4x4 Upfitting and Suspension Modifications

• Install lift kits, leveling kits, suspension lifts, and related components on Jeeps and light- to medium-duty trucks.
• Install and replace suspension components, including shocks, struts, springs, control arms, track bars, steering components, and related hardware.
• Install aftermarket wheels, tires, wheel spacers where approved, and other 4x4 accessories.
• Perform modifications to accommodate larger tires and improve vehicle clearance, functionality, and off-road capability.
• Inspect steering and suspension systems following installations to verify proper fitment, clearance, and operation.
• Identify potential interference issues involving tires, wheels, suspension, steering, brakes, and body components.
• Perform or coordinate post-installation alignment checks and adjustments when required.
• Follow manufacturer installation instructions, torque specifications, and applicable vehicle safety requirements.

General Mechanical and Production Duties

• Perform maintenance, repairs, inspections, troubleshooting, and modifications on trucks, Jeeps, 4x4 vehicles, and related equipment.
• Review work orders, build instructions, and production documentation to determine required parts, procedures, and modifications.
• Remove, disassemble, inspect, repair, and reinstall mechanical assemblies, subassemblies, and vehicle components.
• Perform adjustments and repairs to suspension, steering, braking, electrical, air, hydraulic, and other vehicle systems within the technician’s qualifications.
• Inspect and clean components, identify defective or worn parts, and ensure components are suitable for installation.
• Operate vehicle lifts, hoists, jacks, tire machines, wheel balancers, torque tools, and other shop equipment safely.
• Use hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, measuring equipment, and diagnostic tools to complete assigned work.
• Examine parts and assemblies for wear, damage, alignment, and proper installation.
• Conduct incoming and final vehicle inspections using inspection sheets, build checklists, and other required production documentation.
• Maintain accurate work orders, production records, and installation documentation using company systems, including Dozuki software and tablets.
• Identify quality issues, recommend process improvements, and communicate concerns to supervisors or management.
• Provide technical guidance and assistance to other technicians as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area and follow all company safety procedures.
• Perform all work in accordance with company quality standards, technical manuals, manufacturer guidelines, and applicable safety requirements.
• Assist with other production, vehicle upfitting, and shop duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Experience and Skills

• Hands-on experience with automotive repair, tire and wheel services, suspension systems, or vehicle upfitting preferred.
• Experience mounting and balancing tires using professional tire service equipment preferred.
• Experience installing lift kits, leveling kits, suspension upgrades, or aftermarket accessories on Jeeps, 4x4 vehicles, and light- to medium-duty trucks preferred.
• Working knowledge of steering, suspension, braking, and wheel and tire systems.
• Ability to safely operate vehicle lifts, jacks, tire mounting machines, wheel balancers, torque wrenches, and common shop equipment.
• Basic understanding of wheel fitment, tire sizing, torque specifications, and suspension geometry.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, technical manuals, installation instructions, and manufacturer specifications.
• Familiarity with hand tools, battery-operated tools, pneumatic tools, and diagnostic equipment.
• Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize assigned tasks, and work independently or as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn new techniques, equipment, and procedures.
• Automotive technical training, relevant certifications, or equivalent hands‑on experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with assistance for heavier items when necessary.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, squat, reach, stand, walk, pivot, push, and pull throughout the workday.
• Ability to stand and work for extended periods, including five or more hours per day.
• Ability to safely work beneath vehicles and around automotive lifts and shop equipment.
• Comfortable working in a fast- to physically demanding automotive and production environment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and follow established shop safety procedures.

Work Environment

This position operates in an automotive and vehicle production shop environment and may involve exposure to noise, dust, grease, oils, cleaning products, and other typical shop conditions. Proper personal protective equipment and safe operating procedures must be followed at all times.

Travel:

• Limited to none

https://www.acelatruck.com/