What Does a Service Technician Do? | Wheelers Careers

November 9th, 2026 by
Now Hiring Technicians

Ever wonder what happens after you hand over your keys? Here is a look at what a service technician actually does.

And why a career in the service bay might be a better fit than you think.

By the Wheelers Team  |  Wheelers Family Auto Group

The Quick Answer

An automotive service technician inspects, diagnoses, maintains, and repairs vehicles so they stay safe and reliable on the road. The work combines problem solving, hands-on skill, and technology, and it keeps growing as vehicles get more advanced. Wheelers is hiring technicians at all skill levels and offers paid GM training.

More Than “Fixing Cars”

When people picture a technician, they often see someone with a wrench under a hood. That is part of it, but modern technicians are also detectives. Today’s vehicles are packed with sensors, computers, and software, and finding what is wrong takes as much thinking as it does turning bolts.

At a dealership, technicians work on the very vehicles they were trained for: in our case, Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC. That focus means they get to know these vehicles inside and out.

A, B and C
technician levels, from entry to advanced
Paid
GM training and ASE training
No Sundays
a schedule with room for life

What a Technician Does, Step by Step

Part 1

Greets the Problem

A service advisor talks with the customer and writes up the concern, such as a noise, a warning light, or a rough ride. That information goes to the technician, who starts with a clear picture of what the vehicle owner is experiencing.

Part 2

Inspects and Diagnoses

This is where the detective work happens. Technicians use scan tools and diagnostic equipment, test components, read data, and check the vehicle over. The goal is to find the real cause, not just treat the symptom.

Part 3

Performs Maintenance

Oil changes, tire rotations, brake service, fluid checks, filters, and more keep vehicles running well. It is the foundation of the work and a great place to build skills.

Part 4

Repairs and Replaces

From brakes and suspension to engines, transmissions, electrical systems, and more, technicians repair what is worn or broken. Some jobs take an hour. Others take days.

Part 5

Tests and Double-Checks

After a repair, technicians test the vehicle to make sure the problem is solved and everything works safely. Quality checks matter because families depend on these vehicles.

Part 6

Documents the Work

Technicians record what they found and what they did, so the service advisor can explain it to the customer and the vehicle has a clear service history.

Part 7

Keeps Learning

Vehicles change every year, and so does the training. Technicians keep up with new systems, tools, and procedures throughout their careers.

A Typical Day in the Shop

No two days are exactly alike, but a day in the service department often looks something like this:

When What Happens
Morning Review the day’s repair orders, plan the work, and get vehicles into the bays.
Midday Diagnose problems, make repairs, and check in with advisors and teammates.
Afternoon Finish repairs, test drive and quality check, and complete the paperwork.
All Day Ask questions, learn from a mentor, and keep getting better.

This is a general picture. Your schedule and tasks will depend on your location and skill level.

Skills That Make a Good Technician

✓Curiosity. You like figuring out how things work and why they stopped working.
✓Hands-on ability. You are comfortable with tools and enjoy working with your hands.
✓Problem solving. You can take a vague symptom and work toward the cause.
✓Attention to detail. Small mistakes matter when safety is on the line.
✓Teamwork. You work alongside advisors, parts staff, and other technicians.
✓A willingness to learn. Experience helps, but attitude counts too.

What Do A, B, and C Levels Mean?

Wheelers is hiring technicians at A, B, and C levels. In general, technician levels reflect experience and skill, from entry-level work and maintenance up to advanced diagnostics and complex repairs. The right level for you depends on your background, and we will talk through it when you apply.

We’ll TrainPaid GM TrainingAll Skill Levels

That last one matters. If you are new to the field but eager to learn, we would like to hear from you.

Why Build a Career at Wheelers

Wheelers has been family owned since 1964, with locations in Coloma, Marshfield, Medford, Merrill, and Wisconsin Rapids. Our technicians service all GM vehicles, including Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC. Here are some of the benefits that come with the job:

✓Paid training, including ASE and GM ASEP
✓An on-the-job mentor to help you learn
✓401(k) with match
✓Medical, dental, and vision coverage
✓Paid vacation and holidays
✓Uniforms provided
✓Employee discounts
✓No Sundays

Not Just Technicians

We are also hiring for service advisors, parts counter, estimators, and office roles. If you like the automotive world but prefer working with customers, parts, or paperwork, there may be a spot for you too.

Common Questions

Do I need experience to apply?

No. Wheelers is hiring technicians at all skill levels and offers paid GM training. If you are new but eager to learn, you are encouraged to apply.

What kind of training will I get?

Training includes paid ASE and GM ASEP training, plus an on-the-job mentor to help you learn in the shop.

Do technicians work on Sundays?

No. Sundays are off.

Where are the jobs located?

Wheelers has locations in Coloma, Marshfield, Medford, Merrill, and Wisconsin Rapids. Mention the location you are interested in when you apply.

How do I apply?

Apply online at wheelerscareers.com. HR will call or text you within 24 hours.

Ready to Start a Career Under the Hood?

We will train you, pay for your training, and give you a mentor. Apply today and HR will call or text you within 24 hours.

Apply Today

Benefits and training details are based on current Wheelers hiring information and may change. Technician levels and responsibilities vary by position and location.