What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Service Advisor / Shop Operations Manager position at Car Connection Raleigh?
Car Connection Raleigh is seeking an experienced Lead Service Advisor / Shop Operations Manager with strong automotive technician experience. This role is designed for someone who can take over the mechanical side of the business — managing workflow, diagnosing vehicles, supporting mechanics, writing estimates, and ensuring smooth daily operations.You will oversee the entire service department, including customer vehicles and dealership inventory reconditioning. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who understands both repair work and shop management. ResponsibilitiesShop Management & WorkflowManage daily workload for all mechanicsAssign jobs, track progress, and ensure repairs are completed on scheduleMaintain a live log of all open jobs, invoices, parts orders, and completed workSchedule repairs, follow-ups, and inspectionsOversee reconditioning of newly purchased cars and prepare them for front-line retailCustomer & Advisor DutiesWrite estimates and repair ordersQuote jobs accurately and clearly explain repair needsSell recommended services and follow up on pending workCommunicate with customers professionally and provide regular updatesSchedule appointments and coordinate drop-offs/pickupsTechnical & Diagnostic WorkPerform diagnostics on incoming vehiclesRoad test vehicles to verify concernsAssist mechanics with troubleshooting when neededPerform NC State Safety & Emissions inspections (preferred or willing to obtain)Quality check completed repairsParts & InventoryOrder parts quickly and accuratelyTrack parts flow: ordered, received, returns, coresManage vendor relationships and pricingKeep shop supplies stocked and organizedDealership Support (Recon & Frontline Readiness)Inspect newly acquired inventoryWrite reconditioning plans and estimatesPrioritize safety and mechanical repairsEnsure each car is fully repaired, detailed, and ready for the lot RequirementsAutomotive technician experience (required)Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting backgroundAbility to write estimates and understand labor/parts pricingExperience ordering parts and communicating with vendorsStrong organizational and multitasking skillsProfessional, reliable, and good with customersNC State Inspector license preferred (or willing to obtain) Preferred SkillsPrevious Service Advisor, Shop Foreman, or Shop Manager experienceUsed-car dealership experienceReconditioning workflow knowledgeAbility to prioritize work in a fast-paced environmentComfortable with shop management software BenefitsPaid time offEmployee vehicle purchase discountsStrong growth potential into full shop manager/lead roleCompany DescriptionCar Connection Raleigh is a fast-growing used car dealership and full-service repair facility. We focus on high-quality repairs, efficient workflow, and strong customer satisfaction. We are growing quickly and looking for the right person to help lead the service department.