General Service Technician/Detail Assistant (Entry Level) - Auto Repair

Automotive General Service Technician & Detail Assistant

Company: American Garage
Location: 40440 US Highway 2 East, Chinook, MT 59523
Position Type: Full-Time (40 Hours/Week)
Schedule: 4-Day Work Week | Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Friday – Sunday Off)
Compensation: $16.85 – $20.80 per hour (Starting pay dependent on experience)

About American Garage

American Garage is an established, independent automotive repair facility celebrating over 20 years of continuous growth and trusted service in Northern Montana. Built on the core values of honesty, integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship, we have earned a high referral rate and an extensive, loyal customer base.

Our facility is exceptionally clean, modern, and fully equipped with up-to-date diagnostic technology, specialty tools, and equipment so our team can repair vehicles the right way, the first time. We foster an upbeat, professional, family-friendly shop culture where team members are supported, valued, and provided with real career growth opportunities.

What We Offer (Benefits & Perks)

• Work-Life Balance: Consistent 4-day work week (10-hour shifts, Monday through Thursday) with 3-day weekends every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Competitive Compensation: Reliable hourly wage with regular performance and skill-growth reviews.
• Paid Time Off: 3 Paid Major Holidays and accrued paid vacation.
• Retirement Plan: Company-supported retirement plan to help secure your future.
• Insurance Benefits: Company-provided life insurance coverage.
• Training & Education: Paid continuing education, certification assistance, and hands-on mentorship to advance into senior technician roles.
• Work Environment: Uniforms provided, employee parts discounts, and a clean, safe, well-lit shop environment.

Position Summary

We are seeking an energetic, dependable, and detail-oriented individual to join our team as an Entry-Level General Service Technician & Detail Assistant. In this dual-function role, you will handle vital preventive maintenance services, perform vehicle cleaning and prep, and assist experienced technicians—building a strong foundation for a long-term automotive career.

No prior professional experience is required. We provide full on-the-job training for individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic, a mechanical aptitude, and an eagerness to learn.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. General Service & Preventive Maintenance

• Perform routine automotive maintenance services, including engine oil and filter changes, fluid flushes, and filter replacements.
• Dismount, mount, balance, rotate, and repair tires using modern tire-service equipment.
• Conduct comprehensive multi-point vehicle inspections (fluids, belts, hoses, wipers, lights, steering, and suspension components) using our digital shop tablets.
• Safely operate equipment and shop tools according to established safety regulations and company policy.

2. Detailing & Vehicle Presentation

• Perform interior and exterior detailing on customer and fleet vehicles (washing, vacuuming, window cleaning, and sanitizing touchpoints).
• Stage and park vehicles safely throughout the facility lot and service bays.

3. Shop Support & Team Collaboration

• Assist certified technicians with complex diagnostic procedures, parts staging, and repairs as needed.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with the Service Advisor and Management regarding vehicle conditions, required parts, and completion timelines.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout service bays, oil storage areas, and equipment stations.
• Follow all company safety policies, hazardous material disposal standards, and employee handbook guidelines.

Qualifications & Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license with a clean, insurable driving record.
• Core Aptitudes: High attention to detail, pride in craftsmanship, and strong organizational skills.
• Interpersonal Skills: Positive attitude, punctuality, reliable attendance, and the ability to work effectively within a collaborative team environment.
• Technology: Basic familiarity with computers/tablets or a willingness to learn digital inspection systems.
• Standards: Commitment to maintaining a clean, drug-free workplace and representing American Garage with honesty and integrity.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, and perform repetitive physical tasks for the duration of a 10-hour workday.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, and maneuver items up to 50–75 lbs (such as wheels, tires, batteries, and fluid containers).
• Ability to work comfortably in a working shop environment subject to seasonal temperature fluctuations, shop noise, and standard automotive fluids.

Preferred (Not Required):

• High school diploma, GED equivalent.
• Vocational training in Automotive Technology a bonus
• Basic familiarity with common automotive hand tools and mechanical systems.

How to Apply

We are eager to speak with candidates who want to launch or grow their automotive career with us. All applications and inquiries will be kept strictly confidential.

• Online: Submit your resume or application through our website at www.americangarage.com
• Email: Send your resume and contact information to heather@americangarage.com
• Phone: Inquire directly by calling (406) 357-4201
• In Person: Stop by our shop at 40440 US Highway 2 East, Chinook, MT 59523 to pick up or drop off an application.

American Garage is an Equal Opportunity and Drug-Free Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.85 - $20.80 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Disability insurance
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Experience:

• Automotive repair: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $21