Installation Technician-Sr

ZipRecruiter; City of Rochester (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in automotive aftermarket services is seeking a Senior Installation Technician in Rochester, NY. This role involves leading vehicle modification projects, ensuring quality and safety standards, and providing mentorship to junior technicians. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience with automotive installations and hold relevant certifications, making them integral to the customer experience and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive installations/restoration required.
• ASE Certified or additional specialty certifications are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex vehicle modification projects and mentor installation teams.
• Perform thorough pre- and post-installation inspections.
• Identify workflow inefficiencies and recommend solutions.

Skills

Advanced mechanical aptitude

Diagnostic ability

Time management

Multitasking

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certifications in automotive or related fields

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Diagnostic tools

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Installation Technician is a highly skilled expert responsible for leading complex vehicle modification projects, mentoring installation teams, and ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. This role serves as the technical authority for aftermarket accessory installations, from suspension systems to performance enhancements, and plays a pivotal role in maintaining operational excellence and advancing customer experience. The Senior Installation Technician sets the benchmark for installation craftsmanship and serves as a resource for diagnostics, innovation, and continuous process improvement within the retail service environment.

CORE FUNCTIONS

Advanced Installation & Technical Expertise

· Execute and oversee advanced aftermarket installations, including lift kits, suspensions, performance parts, lighting systems, electrical integrations, and drivetrain enhancements.

· Interpret and apply complex installation instructions, schematics, and manufacturer guidelines to ensure optimal performance and safety.

· Serve as the go-to technical expert for the most challenging installation and customization projects.

Leadership & Mentorship

· Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to junior and mid-level technicians, supporting professional development and elevating shop-wide performance.

· Lead by example, modeling technical excellence, adherence to safety protocols, and superior customer service.

Vehicle Diagnostics, Quality Control & Final Inspection

· Perform thorough pre- and post-installation inspections, ensuring mechanical integrity, aesthetic precision, and regulatory compliance.

· Lead troubleshooting efforts and resolve complex technical issues using diagnostic tools and expert-level automotive knowledge.

· Manage quality assurance checklists and ensure completion of all customer work orders to company and industry standards.

Process Development & Continuous Improvement

· Identify workflow inefficiencies and recommend solutions to enhance shop productivity and customer turnaround time.

· Contribute to the development of an Installation Operations Manual and help standardize the best practices across retail locations.

· Evaluate new products and tools, providing feedback to cross-functional teams to support merchandising, marketing, and vendor relations.

Tooling, Equipment & Shop Maintenance

· Ensure all shop equipment, alignment machines, and installation tools are maintained, calibrated, and safe for operation.

· Partner with leadership to identify tooling needs and manage procurement of necessary equipment and supplies.

· Oversee and uphold cleanliness and safety in the installation bays.

Inventory Management & Reporting

· Working closely with Service Manager, track part usage, maintain installation logs, and ensure timely reporting of inventory needs or discrepancies.

· Assist in forecasting future parts requirements based on sales trends, seasonal demands, and upcoming promotions.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certifications in automotive or related fields .
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive installations/restoration or related field required.
• ASE Certified or additional specialty certifications are highly desirable.

Required Licenses

· Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.

Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge

• Advanced mechanical aptitude and diagnostic ability.
• Advanced proficiency with hand and power tools.
• Excellent time management and multitasking under tight deadlines.

· Proficient in interpreting technical documents, vehicle schematics, and work orders.

· Working knowledge of alignment systems, lift equipment, and safety protocols.

• Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot issues that arise during installations or repairs.
• Excellent communication skills to interact positively with customers and address their concerns effectively.

Travel

· Minimal – 10%.

COMPETENCIES

· – Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.

· – Responds promptly to customer needs; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.

· – Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals. Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.

· – Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.

· – Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

· – Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.

· – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES

· Lead: working team member who coordinates, supports, trains, and is a knowledge resource for other team members. No direct reports or supervisory responsibility.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

· This position is subject to Heavy Work: Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Physical Activities

· This position is subject to the following physical activities: climbing, balancing, bending, lying down, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, and hearing.

Visual Acuity

· The worker is required to have visual acuity to operate motor vehicles or heavy equipment as well as install small and/or large accessories to vehicles.

Working Conditions

· The worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, including heat, cold, noise, vibration, and hazards from a vehicle mechanic-like environment.