ASE, Analysis Skills, Automotive Repair and Maintenance, Calibration, Communication Skills, Customer Satisfaction, Detail Oriented, Documentation, Electrical Engineering, Electrical Wiring, Electricity, Identify Issues, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Testing, Maintenance Services, Mentoring, Network Administration/Management, Network Performance/Analysis, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Programming Tools, Root Cause Analysis, Test Equipment, Training/Teaching, United States Department of Energy (DOE), Waveforms, Writing Skills
Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician
Location: South Bend, IN
Compensation: Approximately $30-40/hr + Benefits (DOE)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled and analytical Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Technician to join our team. This individual will serve as the shop's primary problem solver, specializing in complex drivability, electrical, network, and performance-related concerns.
The ideal candidate goes beyond simply reading trouble codes and replacing parts. They use a structured diagnostic process, advanced testing equipment, and critical thinking skills to accurately identify root causes and develop effective repairs. This role requires someone who is committed to strategy-based diagnostics, continuous learning, and helping elevate the technical abilities of the entire team.
Required Qualifications
ASE Certifications
Ideally, candidates should possess one or more of the following certifications:
- ASE A8 – Engine Performance
- ASE A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
- ASE L1 – Advanced Engine Performance Specialist
- ASE Master Technician Certification (A1–A8)
However, experience will be considered instead of the certifications.
Key Responsibilities
Advanced Diagnostics
- Diagnose complex drivability, performance, and electrical concerns.
- Utilize scan tools, lab scopes, and testing equipment to identify root causes.
- Perform advanced troubleshooting on vehicle electrical systems and wiring.
- Diagnose EV and hybrid vehicle systems.
- Troubleshoot network communication and module-related issues.
- Verify repairs and ensure issues are corrected properly the first time.
Technical Expertise
- Use factory and aftermarket scan tools proficiently.
- Perform waveform analysis using lab scopes.
- Conduct module programming and updates using J2534 programming tools.
- Apply a structured diagnostic process using the "Concern, Cause, Correction" methodology.
- Document findings through detailed diagnostic journaling.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with fellow technicians to solve difficult vehicle concerns.
- Mentor and teach diagnostic techniques to other team members.
- Maintain clear communication with service advisors, management, and customers.
- Remain adaptable and willing to learn new technologies and procedures.
Desired Skills & Attributes
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities
- Advanced electrical and wiring knowledge
- Commitment to strategy-based diagnostics rather than parts replacement guessing
- Excellent troubleshooting methodology
- Strong attention to detail
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- High level of adaptability and continuous learning
- Ability to clearly prove and explain root-cause failures
- Professionalism and accountability
- Commitment to quality repairs and customer satisfaction
Technical Competencies
- Diagnostic strategy and root-cause analysis
- Advanced drivability diagnostics
- Electrical and network troubleshooting
- Lab scope operation and waveform interpretation
- Factory and aftermarket scan tools
- EV and Hybrid diagnostics
- Module programming and calibration
- J2534 programming tools
- Digital repair documentation
What Success Looks Like
- Diagnoses vehicles accurately and efficiently.
- Consistently identifies root causes rather than symptoms.
- Produces quality repairs with minimal comebacks.
- Serves as a technical resource for the entire shop.
- Helps develop the diagnostic capabilities of other technicians.
- Maintains thorough and professional documentation of all diagnostic work.
This is an excellent opportunity for a technician who enjoys solving difficult problems, staying current with modern vehicle technology, and becoming the go-to diagnostic expert within a growing automotive service organization.