Service Manager

Whip Inc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Whip Inc. is seeking a high-perfomring Service Manager to lead our onsite operations in Chicago, IL. You will bridge complex repairs with rapid fleet logistics, manage two teams, and drive a culture of precision, efficiency, and safety to keep our fleet on the road.

This role requires 5+ years in automotive service management, with EV/fleet experience and strong leadership. You will optimize diagnostics, repairs, inventory, and KPI performance while collaborating with estimators, parts staff,

Qualifications

• 5+ years of automotive service management experience, preferably with EV/fleet operations.
• Strong understanding of automotive systems (drivetrain, suspension, electrical) and repair workflows.
• Experience with high-voltage systems is a strong plus.
• Proficiency with shop management software, inventory tracking, and diagnostic tools.
• Excellent communication and leadership under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Lead service center operations and manage two teams (Technicians and Fleet Associates).
• Ensure diagnostics, repairs meet OEM and safety standards.
• Oversee vehicle check-in/out, inventory, and readiness.
• Coach technicians and track KPIs like turnaround time and fleet utilization.
• Maintain safety protocols and an organized workspace.

Skills

Automotive service management

EV/fleet operations

Team leadership

Communication skills

Tools

Shop management software

Diagnostic tools

Inventory tracking systems

Job description

We are seeking a high-performing, safety-conscious Service Manager to lead our onsite operations. In this role, you will act as the conductor of our service center, bridging the gap between complex technical repairs and rapid fleet logistics.

You will directly manage two critical teams: Technicians (focused on diagnostics, and structural repairs) and Fleet Associates (focused on vehicle readiness, inventory, and logistics). Your goal is to build a culture of precision, efficiency, and absolute safety while ensuring our fleet remains on the road and performing at world-class standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

(include, but are not limited to the following)

Technical Leadership & Shop Management

• Ensure all diagnostic tests, structural repairs, and component replacements (body, frame, suspension, electrical) meet strict OEM and safety standards.
• Manage the daily flow of the shop, prioritizing repair tickets to minimize downtime and assisting technicians with root-cause analysis on complex mechanical issues.
• Enforce rigorous safety protocols, specifically regarding the handling of high-voltage components and EV-specific systems.
• Ensure the team has access to maintained, advanced tooling and follows approved repair procedures.

Managing Fleet Logistics & Readiness

• Operational Flow: Oversee the vehicle check-in/check-out process, ensuring seamless handoffs between the fleet team and the repair team.
• Inventory Control: Monitor vehicle availability, track maintenance schedules, and ensure accurate documentation for the entire fleet.
• Quality Assurance: Hold the fleet team accountable for the cosmetic condition, cleanliness, and road-readiness of every vehicle.
• Coordination: Act as the liaison between the service floor and operations, ensuring fleet availability meets business demand.

People Management & Culture

• Coach technicians and associates, identifying training gaps and fostering career development.
• Monitor KPIs regarding repair turnaround time, fleet utilization, and repair accuracy.
• Maintain a professional, organized, and collaborative workspace that encourages effective communication between estimators, parts associates, and technicians.

Education And Experience

• 5+ years of automotive service management experience, preferably with a focus on Electric Vehicles (EV) and/or fleet operations.
• Strong understanding of automotive systems (drivetrain, suspension, electrical) and collision repair workflows. Prior experience with Tesla or high-voltage systems is a strong plus.
• Proven ability to manage diverse teams (technical vs. logistical) and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Proficiency with shop management software, inventory tracking systems, and diagnostic tools.
• Exceptional communication skills, ability to work under pressure, and a proactive problem-solving mindset.

Work Environment

This role involves standing for extended periods, using hand and power tools, and working around machinery, and automotive fluids. The environment can be noisy and fast paced, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

Physical Demands

• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing, using virtual meeting and communication tools such as email, Google Meet, and Slack.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds, if required.
• Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Whip is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer.

Whip is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding status, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, disability (including physical or mental disability, medical condition, or medical leave), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Consistent with our commitment to equal employment opportunity, Whip will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential functions of your job due to a disability, please contact People Operations at [e-mail] to request an accommodation.

This EEO statement reaffirms our commitment to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, in accordance with all applicable laws. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply for employment opportunities at Whip.

Compliance With Laws

Whip employees are expected to comply with all federal, state, and local laws.

Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of this position. Essential duties and responsibilities may be added or modified as necessary at any time.

Acknowledgement

• Employee to acknowledge receipt and understanding of the job description.

Salary

$60,000 - $75,000, depending on experience.