Mesquite Kia in Mesquite, Texas, is seeking Military Veterans interested in starting a rewarding career as an Automotive Service Technician.
This position is part of the Kia Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP), a structured apprenticeship program created by Kia America to help Military Veterans transition into the automotive industry. Through this program, participants gain hands-on dealership experience while completing a one-year competency-based apprenticeship that leads to Kia Service Technician certification.
VTAP provides Veterans with the opportunity to work full-time at a participating Kia dealership.
As an Automotive Technician Apprentice, you will work alongside experienced technicians and service professionals while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to diagnose, service, and repair Kia vehicles.
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose, maintain, and repair Kia vehicles, including engines, transmissions, steering, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and electrical systems.
- Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs using Kia diagnostic procedures and equipment.
- Complete repair orders and warranty documentation according to Kia and dealership policies
- Test drive vehicles and verify repair quality using appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment
- Communicate effectively with service advisors and shop supervisors to ensure a positive customer experience.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment while following dealership safety procedures.
Requirements
- Honorable discharge from U.S. military service
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- At least 3 years of relevant hands-on mechanical experience through military service, civilian employment, or a combination
- Eligible to work in the United States
Preferred Skills (Not Required)
- Basic automotive maintenance or repair experience
- Prior dealership service environment experience
- Completed technical training in automotive, mechanical, electrical, or a related technical field
- Comfortable using hand and power tools, torque wrenches, basic shop equipment, and technical manuals, with safe maintenance practices
- Experience with multimeters and mechanical or electrical diagnostic equipment
- Experience with scan tools, OBD diagnostics, automotive lifts, brake lathes, or dealership service information systems
- Able to explain mechanical issues, document work performed, and communicate clearly with supervisors and teammates
- Experience working with service advisors or discussing repairs directly with customers
- ASE certification or Kia certification is a plus
Benefits
Kia VTAP Apprenticeship Highlights
- Annual salary of 46000-60000 USD/year
- Full-time employment with a participating Kia Retailer
- A program designed specifically for Military Veterans, facilitated by Veterans
- Participation in a one-year, competency-based GI Bill®-approved apprenticeship leading to Kia Service Technician certification
- Eligible Veterans may receive a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) through the GI Bill® during the apprenticeship