Intern

Job DetailsJob Location: WICHITA, KS 67207Salary Range: $14.00POSITION SUMMARY: The WSU PACT INTERN Technician is an entry-level position designed for a student currently enrolled in WSU’s Tech Auto program who is interested in developing a career as an automotive technician in a dealership environment. The WSU PACT INTERN Technician will gain practical, hands-on experience while working alongside experienced dealership technicians and service personnel. The intern will assist with routine vehicle maintenance, inspections, shop operations, vehicle preparation, and other duties appropriate to their current level of training and demonstrated ability. This position is intended to provide a structured transition from automotive technical education to professional dealership employment while reinforcing safe work practices, quality workmanship, productivity, customer service, and dealership standards Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  Technical Development • Assist experienced technicians with vehicle inspections, maintenance, and repairs as directed. • Perform basic maintenance and service procedures appropriate to the intern's current level of training. • Assist with oil and filter changes, tire rotations, battery service, fluid checks, and other routine maintenance. • Assist with vehicle inspections and identify conditions that may require additional diagnosis or repair. • Learn and apply proper use of hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, lifts, and shop equipment. • Assist technicians with vehicle diagnosis and repair procedures as permitted by training and skill level. • Follow manufacturer-recommended repair procedures and dealership service standards. • Learn proper vehicle inspection, documentation, and repair order procedures. • Develop familiarity with dealership technical information, service procedures, and diagnostic resources. • Ask questions and actively seek opportunities to improve automotive knowledge and technical skills. Shop and Dealership Support • Assist with moving vehicles safely throughout the service department and dealership property. • Perform vehicle inspections and pre- and post-service checks as assigned. • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas. • Properly store tools and equipment after use. • Assist with maintaining shop supplies and notifying appropriate personnel when supplies are low. • Dispose of waste, fluids, filters, and other materials according to dealership and environmental requirements. • Assist with keeping service bays, equipment, and common areas clean and organized. • Assist other technicians and service department personnel as needed. Safety and Compliance • Follow all dealership safety policies, OSHA requirements, and applicable workplace procedures. • Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE). • Follow all vehicle lift, jack, power tool, chemical, and equipment safety procedures. • Immediately report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, accidents, injuries, or vehicle damage to a supervisor. • Never perform a task beyond the intern's training, authorization, or demonstrated ability. • Follow all manufacturer and dealership procedures when working on customer vehicles. • Maintain confidentiality regarding customer information, dealership information, and vehicle records. Customer Service and Professional Conduct • Maintain a professional and positive attitude when interacting with customers and dealership employees. • Treat customer vehicles and property with care and respect. • Protect customer vehicles from damage by using appropriate protective equipment and procedures. • Maintain professional appearance and comply with dealership dress and grooming standards. • Demonstrate punctuality, dependability, teamwork, and willingness to learn. • Represent the dealership professionally at all times. Training and Development • The WSU PACT INTERN Technician is expected to progressively develop automotive knowledge and technical skills throughout the internship. Training may include: • Dealership service department procedures • Manufacturer technical procedures • Preventive maintenance • Vehicle inspections • Basic diagnostics • Brake systems • Steering and suspension • Electrical systems • Engine performance • Heating and air conditioning systems • Shop safety and equipment operation • Proper repair-order documentation • Parts identification and ordering processes • Warranty and dealership service procedures • Use of manufacturer technical information and diagnostic resources The level of work assigned will be based on the intern's education, experience, demonstrated competency, certifications, and direction from dealership management and supervising technicians.   QualificationsQualifications Required • Currently enrolled in WSU Tech Auto Program. • Basic understanding of automotive systems and vehicle maintenance. • Ability and willingness to learn hands-on automotive repair and maintenance. • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. • Ability to work safely around vehicles, tools, equipment, and automotive fluids. • Reliable attendance and punctuality. • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record, as required by dealership policy. • Preferred Completion of introductory automotive technology coursework. • Previous automotive shop, dealership, fleet, or repair experience. • Basic tool knowledge. • Personal set of automotive hand tools appropriate to current training level. • ASE Entry-Level certification or other automotive training credentials. • Interest in pursuing ASE certification and a career as a professional automotive technician. Physical Requirements The position requires the ability to: • Stand and walk for extended periods. • Bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and work in confined areas. • Frequently use hands and fingers to operate tools and equipment. • Lift and carry automotive parts, tools, and equipment. • Work safely around vehicles, vehicle lifts, machinery, and automotive chemicals. • Occasionally lift items weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. • Work in varying temperatures and shop conditions.