If you’re passionate about cars and want to take your career beyond the garage, automotive management might be the perfect path. Whether you’re interested in running a repair shop, managing a dealership, or leading a service team, pursuing related training is the first step.

At NYADI in Jamaica, New York, we offer an Automotive Management and Support Technology associate degree program that can help you learn the skills needed. Here, we discuss automotive management jobs, the essential skills necessary for them, and the requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Automotive management combines technical expertise with leadership and business skills, offering a rewarding career path in service operations.
• NYADI’s Automotive Management and Support Technology program provides hands-on training and industry-relevant education to prepare students for management roles.
• Graduates can pursue careers in dealerships, repair shops, fleet services, and more, with strong earning potential and opportunities for advancement.

What Is an Automotive Management Job?

An automotive management job involves overseeing the daily operations of automotive service facilities, while also ensuring customer satisfaction, team efficiency, and business success. These roles require a blend of technical automotive knowledge and strong leadership skills.

Automotive managers play a vital role in the success of service operations. Their responsibilities go beyond technical oversight and include team leadership, customer relations, and business strategy. Some key duties include:

• Supervising service technicians and advisors to ensure repairs and maintenance are completed accurately and on schedule
• Managing the shop’s daily schedule and workflow by assigning tasks and keeping operations organized
• Performing inventory control by tracking parts usage and placing orders
• Promoting customer satisfaction by resolving service issues and maintaining trust
• Upholding safety standards and ensuring the facility complies with industry regulations and internal policies
• Budgeting and performance tracking, analyzing data, and reporting results to senior leadership

Automotive managers are needed in various settings across the transportation and service industries. They often work in dealership service departments and independent auto repair shops.

Essential Skills for Automotive Management

If you’re interested in becoming an automotive manager, you’ll need a well-rounded skill set that combines technical knowledge, leadership ability, and customer service expertise. These skills include:

• Leadership and team management: Automotive managers must be able to motivate and guide their staff to meet performance goals and maintain a productive work environment.
• Technical understanding: A solid grasp of automotive systems and repair processes helps managers communicate effectively with technicians and make informed decisions.
• Customer service: Managers interact directly with customers, so strong communication and conflict resolution skills are essential for maintaining satisfaction and loyalty.
• Problem-solving: Automotive managers must be quick thinkers who can troubleshoot operational issues, resolve customer complaints, and adapt to unexpected challenges.
• Organizational skills: From scheduling repairs to managing inventory, staying organized is key to keeping the shop running efficiently.

Educational Requirements and Training for Automotive Management

If you’re aiming for a career in automotive management, the right education and training can set you apart. To become one, you’ll typically need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. You can also complete a related training program to further develop your skills.

At NYADI, we offer an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) in Automotive Management and Support Technology. This program combines technical automotive training with coursework in business operations and team leadership to help students build the leadership, business, and technical skills needed to thrive in a management role. We also offer an Automotive Support Service Technology certificate program that prepares graduates for entry-level careers in automotive support roles.

Career Opportunities in Automotive Management

A career in automotive management offers several benefits. Whether you’re starting or looking to move into a senior role, the field provides a clear path for growth based on experience, education, and leadership ability. Some of the advantages of this career include:

• Solid earning potential: Entry-level automotive managers typically earn between $45,000 and $55,000 per year, especially those starting in smaller shops or support roles. With a few years of experience and formal training, mid-level managers can expect to earn $60,000 to $80,000 annually, particularly in dealership or fleet settings.
• Career advancement: Experienced managers can move into regional or district management roles, overseeing operations across multiple service centers. Some professionals transition into general operations management, taking on broader business responsibilities beyond the service department.
• Personal satisfaction: By overseeing operations and technicians, auto managers help their businesses run smoothly and keep customers satisfied, which can be rewarding.

Get Started in Automotive Management at NYADI

Ready to take the next step toward a leadership role in the automotive industry? NYADI’s Automotive Management and Support Technology program is designed to give you the hands-on training, technical knowledge, and business skills you need to succeed. We also offer financial aid options for qualified students and career services and support. To learn more about automotive management jobs and our training, contact our admissions office today.

FAQs About Automotive Management Jobs

What is an automotive management job?

An automotive management job is a leadership role focused on overseeing operations in automotive service facilities, including managing staff, customer service, inventory, and workflow.

Where can I work with an automotive management background?

Career options include dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance centers, parts distributors, and government transportation departments.

Can I advance in this field?

Yes, with experience and continued education, you can move into senior management, operations leadership, or even start your own business.