Prototype Vehicle Systems Technician

Torrey Holistics; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Direct Staff, Inc. is hiring an experienced automotive mechanic in Detroit to prepare prototype vehicles for development and testing.

You will install and verify performance of experimental components across powertrain, chassis, and electrical subsystems, diagnose issues, and implement fixes that meet engineering specs. The role requires 5+ years hands-on experience, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a strong safety mindset.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 5+ years hands-on automotive mechanic experience required.
• Proven mechanical aptitude and ability to use shop equipment effectively.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a strong safety mindset required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare prototype vehicles for development and test activities.
• Install, service, and verify performance of experimental components across powertrain, chassis, and electrical subsystems.
• Diagnose, repair, and adjust systems on pre-production vehicles just off the build line.
• Work closely with engineering and project leads to execute prototype builds and modifications.
• Create and maintain detailed service, repair, and configuration records for each prototype.
• Operate, calibrate, and care for shop tools and equipment to ensure safety and readiness.
• Contribute to shop organization, housekeeping, and safety compliance.

Skills

Automotive repair

Engine repair

Preventive maintenance

Safety mindset

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certificate in Automotive Technology

ASE/state mechanic certifications

Tools

Shop tools & equipment handling

Job description

Step Into Tomorrow’s Garage

Join a Tier 1 supplier known for engineering excellence across automotive prototype and racing, defense, and aerospace. You’ll get hands‑on with cutting‑edge vehicles and systems well before the public ever sees them.

A Day in the Shop

Your shift begins at 6:00 AM. You review build notes, pull the right tools, and dive into a pre‑production build. Before lunch, you’ve installed and validated unreleased vehicle components on both mechanical and electrical systems. After a quick stand‑up with engineers, you diagnose an issue on a vehicle fresh off the line, document your findings, and implement a fix that meets engineering specs. You finish the day organizing the bay and confirming all equipment is ready for the next round of testing.

Core Responsibilities

• Prepare prototype vehicles (cars and trucks) for development and test activities.
• Install, service, and verify performance of experimental components across powertrain, chassis, and electrical subsystems.
• Diagnose, repair, and adjust systems on pre‑production vehicles just off the build line.
• Work closely with engineering and project leads to execute prototype builds and modifications.
• Create and maintain detailed service, repair, and configuration records for each prototype.
• Operate, calibrate, and care for shop tools and equipment to ensure safety and readiness.
• Contribute to shop organization, housekeeping, and safety compliance.

Schedule & Work Environment

Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Overtime available as program needs ramp up.

Required Background

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of hands‑on automotive mechanic experience.
• Proven mechanical aptitude and ability to use shop equipment effectively.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a strong safety mindset.

Preferred Background

• Certificate in Automotive Technology (or related).
• ASE and/or State Mechanic certifications.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Experience in prototype, pre‑production, or dealership environments.

Why You’ll Love It Here

Be first to work with emerging technologies, collaborate with cross‑functional experts, and see your craftsmanship influence vehicles headed to market. This is a place to learn, grow, and contribute to what’s next.

Employment Type

Full‑time, Contract

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Paid Time Off

Proficiencies

• Preventive Maintenance & Inspection
• Automotive Repair
• Engine Repair
• Service

Equal Opportunity

Direct Staff, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We promote and afford equal treatment and service to all employees and applicants for employment. All employees and applicants are given an equal employment opportunity without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, gender, marital status, or disability.