Automotive Technician Apprenticeship for Military Veterans - Lee Johnson Kia

KIA Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP); Kirkland (WA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full‑time employment

GI Bill approved

Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)

Job summary

Lee Johnson Kia in Kirkland, WA, is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience to begin a rewarding career as an Automotive Service Technician through the Kia Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP).

The program is GI Bill approved and offers hands-on dealership experience through a one-year competency-based apprenticeship leading to Kia Service Technician certification, with eligibility for Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) during the apprenticeship.

Qualifications

• Honorable Discharge from U.S. Military Service.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Prior experience in a mechanical or technical field.
• Willingness to complete background check and drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, maintain, and repair Kia vehicles using Kia procedures.
• Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs.
• Complete repair orders and warranty documentation.
• Test drive vehicles and verify repair quality with diagnostic tools.
• Communicate with service advisors and shop foremen to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Diagnostic skills

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

ASE certifications or related technical training (a plus)

Tools

Kia diagnostic equipment

Job description

Lee Johnson Kia in Kirkland, WA , is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Automotive Service Technician.

This position is part of the Kia Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP), a structured apprenticeship program created by Kia America to help Military Veterans transition into the automotive industry. Through this program, participants gain hands‑on dealership experience while completing a one‑year competency‑based apprenticeship that leads to Kia Service Technician certification.

VTAP provides Veterans the opportunity to work full‑time at a participating Kia dealership while receiving the training, tools, and support needed to develop into highly skilled automotive technicians. The program is GI Bill® approved, allowing eligible Veterans to receive Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) during their apprenticeship.

As an Automotive Technician Apprentice, you will work alongside experienced technicians and service professionals while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to diagnose, service, and repair Kia vehicles.

Job Responsibilities

• Diagnose, maintain, and repair Kia vehicles, including engines, transmissions, steering, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and electrical systems
• Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs using Kia diagnostic procedures and equipment
• Complete repair orders and warranty documentation according to Kia and dealership policies
• Test drive vehicles and verify repair quality using appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment
• Communicate effectively with service advisors and shop foremen to ensure a positive customer experience
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment while following dealership safety procedures

Requirements

• Honorable Discharge from U.S. Military Service
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Prior experience in a mechanical or technical field
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced dealership service environment
• Willingness to complete background check and drug screening

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

• Basic automotive maintenance or repair experience
• Familiarity with diagnostic tools and hand tools
• Experience working with engines, electrical systems, or mechanical equipment
• ASE certifications or technical training (a plus)

Benefits

Kia VTAP Apprenticeship Highlights

• Full‑time employment with a participating Kia Retailer
• A program designed specifically for Military Veterans, facilitated by Veterans
• Participation in a one‑year, competency‑based GI Bill®-approved apprenticeship leading to Kia Service Technician certification
• Eligible Veterans may receive a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) through the GI Bill® during the apprenticeship