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Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

SOC 49-3023.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparation

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicles.

Context coveredQuick-service, drivability, diagnostic, heavy-line, and master-tech roles in dealerships and independent shops; mechanical, electrical, and computerized vehicle systems.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Lube, oil, and filter services — perform to manufacturer spec under a senior tech's review.
  2. Tire rotation, balance, and pressure — execute correctly on standard passenger vehicles.
  3. Multi-point inspection checklists — complete reliably on incoming vehicles.
  4. Service writeups in the shop management system — enter accurately under supervision.
  5. Hand and power tools — select and use safely on routine maintenance.
  6. Brake pad and rotor replacements — perform on common vehicles with senior verification.
  7. Battery, wiper, and lamp replacements — complete to spec on quick-service tickets.
  8. Lift safety and vehicle support — apply consistently across the shop.
  9. Manufacturer service intervals — locate and follow in service information systems.
  10. Shop housekeeping and waste handling — maintain to environmental standards.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Routine repairs (brakes, suspension, exhaust) — perform independently across common vehicles.
  2. Customer concerns from the writeup — translate into accurate diagnostic plans.
  3. Common drivability complaints — diagnose with scan tool and basic test equipment.
  4. Wheel alignments — perform and document on a range of vehicle types.
  5. Belts, hoses, fluids, and seals — service correctly across mileage-based intervals.
  6. Electrical complaints (lighting, accessories) — diagnose and repair with reduced oversight.
  7. Service writeups for additional needs — communicate clearly with service advisors.
  8. Warranty repairs — complete to manufacturer documentation requirements.
  9. Quick-service workflow — sustain throughput on a routine day.
  10. Apprentice technicians — guide on common procedures and tool use.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex drivability and electrical faults — diagnose autonomously across vehicle makes.
  2. OEM service information and TSBs — apply correctly to non-obvious problems.
  3. Engine, transmission, and major component R&R — execute on common platforms.
  4. Network and module-related issues (CAN, programming) — diagnose and repair on supported platforms.
  5. Heavy-line and internal repairs — plan and complete to manufacturer spec.
  6. Customer-pay diagnostics — frame, scope, and communicate clearly through the advisor.
  7. Comebacks and chronic concerns — investigate and resolve with structured root-cause work.
  8. Newer technicians on diagnostic technique — mentor across the shop.
  9. Specialty equipment (alignment, A/C, scan tools) — operate and interpret with full confidence.
  10. Estimates and labor times — produce credibly for non-routine work.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Master-level diagnostics across makes and systems — own as the shop's escalation point.
  2. Shop-floor productivity and quality — shape as lead technician or shop foreman.
  3. Technician development and certifications — mentor and progress across the team.
  4. Manufacturer training and program updates — absorb and disseminate across the shop.
  5. Tooling, equipment, and shop layout — plan and recommend with management.
  6. Safety, environmental, and compliance programs — own across the operation.
  7. High-stakes customer concerns — handle with the advisor and management to resolution.
  8. New-model technologies (EV, ADAS, hybrid) — establish capability and standards in the shop.
  9. Warranty audits and OEM relationships — manage credibly on behalf of the shop.
  10. Service-bay throughput and labor utilization — analyze and improve with management.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-generated diagnostic lookup — queries an AI assistant with symptom descriptions and DTC codes to surface likely fault causes, then cross-references results against the vehicle's service manual before proceeding Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic repair documentation — pastes work-order notes into an AI tool to check for missing steps or unclear language, accepting suggestions only after manual review WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Guided troubleshooting workflow — feeds live scan-tool data and customer complaint details to an AI assistant to narrow the diagnostic tree, while independently verifying each candidate cause through physical inspection Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Parts and labor estimation — uses an AI-assisted lookup to cross-reference OEM part numbers and flat-rate labor times, then confirms applicability against the specific vehicle's trim and build sheet WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Technical service bulletin triage — directs an AI tool to scan model-year TSB databases for patterns matching observed symptoms, filtering returned matches by mileage and production date before presenting findings to a supervisor Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Multi-system fault correlation — delegates the cross-referencing of multiple simultaneous DTCs to an AI assistant, interprets the ranked hypothesis list against hands-on component testing, and retains final diagnosis authority Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Performance specification validation — after completing a repair, uses AI-assisted comparison of pre- and post-repair sensor data against manufacturer specs to confirm the system meets tolerance, flagging any outlier for re-inspection WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Repair procedure optimization — instructs an AI tool to sequence overlapping repair tasks on a single vehicle to minimize labor hours, then adjusts the output based on bay availability and torque-sequence constraints Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  4. Customer communication drafting — delegates the conversion of technical repair findings into plain-language explanations to an AI assistant, editing the output for accuracy before presenting it to the vehicle owner Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Predictive maintenance pattern analysis — directs an AI agent to aggregate historical repair records and sensor trends across a fleet or repeat-customer vehicles, interpreting outputs to recommend proactive service intervals before failure occurs Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Diagnostic knowledge transfer — structures shop-specific diagnostic heuristics and edge-case findings into AI-readable prompts or retrieval-augmented knowledge bases, enabling less experienced technicians to query institutional repair knowledge on demand Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI tool evaluation and governance — benchmarks AI diagnostic assistants against known fault scenarios, documents accuracy gaps for repairing tasks where automation feasibility is highest, and sets shop-level policies on when AI outputs require mandatory physical verification Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 187
Augment share: 18.7%
Time saved: 89.9%
AI autonomy: 3.14
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Repairing
Score: 62.1 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Customer problem intake — records vehicle complaint descriptions using shop work order forms during initial service write-up Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair status update — relays basic progress information to service advisors using verbal check-ins during active repair jobs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Diagnostic findings report — summarizes identified faults and proposed repair steps to customers using plain-language explanations that avoid excessive technical jargon Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Work order review — reads and interprets written repair instructions and parts lists from supervisors before beginning assigned jobs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Repair cost estimate — communicates labor and parts cost breakdowns to customers using itemized written estimates O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Customer consultation — elicits detailed vehicle symptom histories and driving conditions through structured questioning while maintaining professional rapport during service intake Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technical documentation — writes clear, complete repair narratives on closed work orders documenting all diagnostic steps, parts replaced, and test results for shop records O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Supervisor debrief — presents diagnostic findings and repair decisions to service managers using accurate technical terminology during team workflow discussions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Future repair advisement — communicates proactive maintenance recommendations and upcoming failure risks to customers using evidence-based vehicle inspection findings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional technical briefing — translates complex drivetrain or electronic system faults for service advisors and parts staff to align repair planning across shop departments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Apprentice communication coaching — models clear customer and documentation communication practices for junior technicians during supervised service interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Job site ownership — takes responsibility for keeping an assigned bay clean, organized, and stocked with tools during daily shift operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer task awareness — volunteers to assist fellow technicians with vehicle lifts and component removal during high-volume shop periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Repair decision initiative — identifies additional needed repairs beyond the original work order and escalates findings to the supervisor without being prompted Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shop safety stewardship — reminds colleagues of proper lift and hazardous material protocols during routine daily operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Workflow prioritization — organizes personal repair queue to meet promised delivery times while communicating scheduling conflicts proactively to service writers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior technician guidance — demonstrates correct diagnostic procedures and torque specification adherence to apprentices during live repair assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Quality accountability — inspects own completed repairs against manufacturer specifications before returning vehicles, taking full ownership of rework when needed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Shop technical leadership — leads team diagnostic huddles on high-complexity or intermittent fault vehicles, directing diagnostic strategies and delegating sub-tasks to technicians of varying skill levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement initiative — identifies recurring repair inefficiencies and proposes updated shop procedures or tool investments to management based on observed patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship program participation — formally mentors entry-level technicians through structured on-the-job skill progressions aligned to shop certification pathways Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition10 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal knowledge limitations on unfamiliar vehicle systems and requests supervisor guidance before proceeding with diagnosis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair reflection — reviews completed work orders after job closure to identify steps where mistakes or delays occurred Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Diagnostic strategy awareness — recognizes when a chosen diagnostic approach is not producing usable data and shifts to an alternative testing method before wasting additional time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning resource selection — chooses appropriate technical service bulletins, OEM manuals, or online databases to fill knowledge gaps for unfamiliar fault codes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pre-repair planning — mentally maps the full diagnostic and repair sequence before beginning disassembly to avoid unnecessary labor and parts waste Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Assumption monitoring — pauses diagnosis when initial assumptions about a fault cause prove inconsistent with test data and re-evaluates starting hypotheses Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Continuing education prioritization — self-identifies training needs based on emerging vehicle technology trends and schedules OEM or industry certification courses accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Expert diagnostic meta-awareness — articulates reasoning process aloud when coaching apprentices through complex multi-system faults, making implicit diagnostic thinking visible and teachable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive learning integration — continuously evaluates effectiveness of personal diagnostic methods against shop efficiency metrics and refines approach based on outcome data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Knowledge transfer design — creates structured reference guides or checklists based on personal diagnostic experiences to support shop-wide learning from recurring fault patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Fault code interpretation — retrieves and records OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes using scan tools and matches codes to basic system descriptions in service manuals O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inspection finding evaluation — compares visual inspection findings against known wear standards to determine whether components require immediate replacement or monitoring O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Symptom root cause analysis — distinguishes between primary faults and secondary symptoms when diagnosing interconnected vehicle systems such as emissions and fuel delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair estimate verification — cross-references estimated labor times against observed vehicle condition and historical repair data before committing to cost projections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Test result interpretation — analyzes compression gauge, fuel pressure, and waveform data to form data-supported conclusions about engine mechanical health O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-system diagnostic reasoning — synthesizes scan tool live data, oscilloscope waveforms, and physical inspection findings to isolate faults in complex electrical or hybrid drivetrain systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair specification validation — tests and adjusts completed systems against OEM performance tolerances, reassessing when results fall outside acceptable ranges O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Competing hypothesis elimination — systematically rules out alternative fault causes through targeted component testing before authorizing major repair expenditures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Intermittent fault resolution — applies structured elimination logic and pattern recognition to diagnose faults that do not present consistently, using data logging and freeze-frame analysis across multiple test drives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic failure pattern identification — recognizes shop-wide or model-specific recurring failures and connects findings to manufacturer technical service bulletins or emerging field defects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Diagnostic protocol development — designs step-by-step diagnostic decision trees for high-frequency fault types to standardize shop diagnostic quality across technician skill levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. Parts department coordination — communicates required parts numbers and quantities clearly to parts staff when ordering components for assigned repairs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Bay sharing cooperation — coordinates vehicle movement and lift scheduling with adjacent technicians during simultaneous multi-technician shop operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Service writer partnership — shares diagnostic findings and revised repair timelines with service advisors to support accurate customer communication during active jobs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sublet coordination — prepares vehicles and communicates job scope clearly to specialty subcontractors such as alignment or upholstery shops before transfer Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Team diagnostic collaboration — contributes technical expertise during group problem-solving discussions on vehicles that have stumped individual technicians, building on colleagues' findings without dismissing prior diagnostic work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-shift handoff — documents in-progress diagnostic status and parts-on-order notes clearly so incoming shift technicians continue work without duplication or lost context Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Customer-technician-advisor triad — participates in three-way discussions with customers and service advisors when complex repairs require real-time clarification of scope changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Shop-wide efficiency collaboration — partners with service management to redesign workflow processes that reduce technician idle time and improve bay throughput during peak demand periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. OEM technical assistance engagement — collaborates with manufacturer hotline engineers during dealer-level diagnostics, presenting organized vehicle data and test results to accelerate fault resolution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Interdepartmental training collaboration — partners with service managers and parts staff to develop joint training sessions that improve cross-functional repair coordination across the dealership or shop Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Time accountability — arrives for shifts on time, clocks in accurately, and reports schedule conflicts to supervisors in advance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool and property respect — returns shared shop tools to designated locations and reports damaged equipment rather than concealing faults Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Repair honesty — discloses when a repair was unsuccessful or requires additional diagnostic time rather than returning a vehicle with an unresolved fault Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer transparency — accurately represents parts pricing and labor costs on estimates without inflating figures or recommending unnecessary repairs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental compliance integrity — disposes of used oil, refrigerants, and brake fluid according to regulatory requirements without taking shortcuts that create shop liability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety standard adherence — consistently follows vehicle lift, torque specification, and electrical safety protocols even when time pressure from production targets is high Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Warranty claim accuracy — documents warranty repair conditions truthfully and completely, avoiding inflation of claim hours or misclassification of fault causes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical advocacy — raises concerns with service management when shop practices, such as deferred safety-critical repairs or misleading customer estimates, conflict with professional standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability modeling — acknowledges errors in diagnosis or repair openly in front of junior technicians and demonstrates corrective action to normalize a culture of professional accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory stewardship — stays current with EPA, OSHA, and state automotive repair regulations and proactively alerts management to compliance gaps observed in shop operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Improvised access solution — identifies alternative disassembly sequences when standard access to a component is blocked by vehicle design constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Diagnostic workaround — uses available shop tools in non-standard configurations to replicate a sensor or circuit test when specialized equipment is unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Custom test fixture fabrication — fabricates simple test leads or jumper harnesses to simulate circuit conditions during electrical fault isolation when OEM breakout boxes are unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repair sequence innovation — devises an alternative component removal order that reduces disassembly time on a vehicle with an unusual factory configuration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Novel fault reproduction strategy — designs a controlled test drive route and data logging configuration to reliably reproduce an intermittent customer complaint that resists standard diagnosis Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive repair approach — develops a repair solution for an out-of-production vehicle where OEM parts are discontinued, sourcing compatible alternatives and validating fit and function through testing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Diagnostic tool adaptation — repurposes oscilloscope, thermal imaging, or smoke machine equipment in innovative ways to resolve fault types not addressed by standard shop diagnostic protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shop process invention — designs a new inspection checklist, jig, or workflow tool that improves diagnostic accuracy or repair efficiency across the entire technician team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Training scenario creation — develops realistic, hands-on diagnostic training exercises based on unusual real-world fault cases encountered in the shop to build apprentice diagnostic creativity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset10 statements
Emerging
  1. Certification pursuit initiation — enrolls in entry-level ASE certification preparation coursework to formalize foundational mechanical knowledge gained through on-the-job experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — accepts supervisor critique of diagnostic errors or incomplete repairs without defensiveness and applies corrections on the next similar job Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. New technology engagement — voluntarily studies hybrid and electric vehicle system operation when new models enter the shop fleet, rather than deferring all EV work to specialized technicians Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mistake analysis — reviews diagnostic misses with the supervisor after an incorrect fault identification to extract lessons that improve future diagnostic logic Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Advanced certification progression — pursues ASE Master Technician or manufacturer-specific certification levels systematically, using failed exam sections as targeted study guides Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emerging system self-training — independently studies OEM training modules on ADAS, ADAS calibration, and 48-volt mild hybrid systems as these technologies appear in shop vehicles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Challenge vehicle acceptance — accepts assignment to difficult, high-complexity vehicles rather than avoiding unfamiliar systems, treating each as a skill-building opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Industry learning leadership — attends trade conferences, manufacturer technical summits, or advanced training programs and returns to share new knowledge with the shop team through structured briefings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Failure culture promotion — actively creates a shop environment where technicians share diagnostic failures openly for collective learning without fear of professional judgment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Career development mentorship — coaches junior technicians to set certification and skill development goals, tracks their progress, and adjusts mentorship strategies based on individual learning pace Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Pre-task focus — pauses before beginning a repair to review the work order fully and gather all required tools and parts, reducing mid-job interruptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Frustration recognition — recognizes personal frustration signals during difficult diagnostics and takes a short break rather than forcing an incorrect repair decision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Attention management under pressure — maintains methodical diagnostic process during high-volume shift periods rather than skipping test steps to meet productivity targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer interaction presence — gives full attention to customer vehicle descriptions during service intake conversations, resisting the impulse to formulate a diagnosis before the customer finishes speaking Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-stakes repair intentionality — slows diagnostic and repair pace deliberately on brake, steering, and safety-critical system jobs, treating each step as consequential regardless of time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Environmental hazard awareness — maintains continuous situational awareness of shop floor conditions including vehicle movement, chemical spills, and compressed air hazards throughout the shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Emotional regulation in conflict — manages frustration calmly during difficult customer interactions or disputed repair authorizations without allowing emotional responses to escalate the situation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Precision mindfulness under complexity — sustains focused, sequential attention across long multi-system diagnostic sessions on vehicles with overlapping faults, avoiding cognitive shortcuts that introduce new errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team stress awareness — monitors shop morale and technician stress levels during peak periods and introduces calming, organizing interventions such as workflow redistribution or brief team check-ins Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional safety culture modeling — consistently demonstrates deliberate, unhurried safety habits in visible shop behaviors that signal to junior technicians that thoroughness is valued over speed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Difficult job persistence — continues working through a physically demanding repair such as a seized brake caliper or corroded exhaust component without abandoning the task prematurely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — proceeds with structured diagnostic steps on unfamiliar vehicle systems without becoming paralyzed by lack of prior experience with the model Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Diagnostic dead-end recovery — restarts the diagnostic process with a fresh hypothesis after multiple failed repair attempts rather than repeating the same ineffective steps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical discomfort endurance — performs under-vehicle and confined-space repairs in awkward positions throughout a full shift while maintaining repair quality standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-pressure deadline navigation — maintains diagnostic accuracy and repair quality standards when multiple vehicles are promised for same-day delivery and production pressure is elevated Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Comebacks resilience — receives a returned vehicle with an unresolved or recurring complaint without becoming discouraged, approaching the second diagnostic attempt with fresh objectivity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Skill boundary courage — accepts assignment to unfamiliar vehicle technologies such as ADAS calibration or high-voltage EV systems and commits to the training required to perform the work safely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Sustained diagnostic perseverance — spends multiple shifts methodically diagnosing a chronic intermittent fault that resists standard methods, maintaining systematic rigor without abandoning the vehicle to a competitor shop Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational change resilience — adapts workflow and retrain skills when the shop adopts new diagnostic platforms, repair software, or OEM procedures without resistance or decline in output quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Adversity leadership — maintains composure and guides the shop team through disruptive events such as equipment failures, parts shortages, or sudden staff absences, sustaining throughput and customer commitments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Related titles
A/C Tech (Air Conditioning Technician) · AC Mechanic (Air Conditioning Mechanic) · Alternative Fuel Vehicle Maintenance Technician (AFV Maintenance Tech) · Alternative Fuel Vehicle Repair Technician (AFV Repair Tech) · Ambulance Mechanic · Antenna Installer · Antenna Specialist · ASE Master Mechanic (Automotive Service Excellence Master Mechanic) · Audio Installer · Auto A/C Installer (Automotive Air Conditioning Installer) · Auto A/C Mechanic (Automotive Air Conditioning Mechanic) · Auto Assistant (Automotive Assistant)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
RepairingTroubleshootingCritical ThinkingOperations MonitoringEquipment MaintenanceOperation and ControlJudgment and Decision MakingActive ListeningMonitoringQuality Control AnalysisSpeakingComplex Problem SolvingSocial PerceptivenessEquipment SelectionSystems EvaluationSystems AnalysisTime Management
Knowledge domains
MechanicalCustomer and Personal ServiceComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and Technology
Abilities
Manual DexterityDeductive ReasoningFinger DexterityNear VisionInductive ReasoningProblem SensitivityArm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionInformation OrderingVisualization
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityPerseveranceIntegrityCautiousnessStress Tolerance
Technology
Facilities management softwareInternet browser softwareData base user interface and query softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareComputer aided manufacturing CAM softwareProject management softwareData base reporting softwareElectronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Inspect vehicles for damage and record findings so that necessary repairs can be made.
  2. Test drive vehicles and test components and systems, using equipment such as infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges, and computerized diagnostic devices.
  3. Test and adjust repaired systems to meet manufacturers' performance specifications.
  4. Repair, reline, replace, and adjust brakes.
  5. Review work orders and discuss work with supervisors.
  6. Estimate costs of vehicle repair.
  7. Confer with customers to obtain descriptions of vehicle problems and to discuss work to be performed and future repair requirements.
  8. Align vehicles' front ends.
CIP education codes
15.080315.080747.060047.060447.061247.061347.061447.0617

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.