Hiring a Tire Technician
Tire technicians inspect, install, repair, replace and balance tires on all types of vehicles. They usually work with both passenger and commercial vehicles like cars, trucks, and heavy-duty vehicles. Technicians in this field mostly work for vehicle and automotive repair shops, garages, tire stores, and car dealerships. For some garages, tire technicians also operate on roadside service vehicles, often helping stranded motorists in need of assistance. Tire technicians usually work with a team of service specialists or mechanics, ensuring that they work in sync with other vehicle systems, focusing on making tires safe, secure, and road-ready. The position acts as a stepping stone for those looking to make a career as an auto mechanic. The compensation package includes average base pay of $35,300 annually along with on-road and overtime commission and other employment benefits.
Duties part of the job role
Usually, the bulk of the job duties take place in a dedicated garage, run by a car dealer or larger tire manufacturing company. The primary responsibilities of a tire technician are to examine and assess the damage to the tires, determining if they are repairable or need replacement. They are also required to perform specialized functions such as retreading tires on off-road vehicles and studding tires for the snow. Since the decision to repair or replace a tire depends on the customer, these professionals must be able to explain technical diagnoses and repairs to customers, providing a task estimate before starting the work. They are not required to work all week long but be available “on-call” for sudden repairs. Other significant responsibilities that are part of the role include making recommendations to customers about tire rotation or replacement practices. Moreover, they should be able to use their knowledge to assist customers with technical inquiries related to product installation and replacement. Apart from this, they are also in charge of managing inventory and equipment and maintaining the workspace in good working order.
Professional skills and qualifications
Candidates applying for the role should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer applicants from a vocational training background. It is also advantageous for candidates to have practical experience working in a garage in a similar capacity.
Tire technicians are routinely required to do physically demanding tasks. They must also have the knowledge of tire patterns and material composition to match the tire to the specifications of the vehicle model. They should work quickly and efficiently while maintaining industry standards. Additionally, they should stay updated by learning new techniques of the trade on a regular basis. The role balances customer service focus with a high level of attention to detail, both of which are essential qualities that are sought by the hiring manager.
