Mechanic- Helena

Automotive Mechanic / Alignment Technician ? $20?$35/hr

Kolar Tire & Auto ? Helena Commercial Center
Location: 755 Shepard Way, Helena, Montana
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $20?$35 per hour, depending on experience
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Vacation & More

About Kolar Tire & Auto

Kolar Tire & Auto is a locally owned and operated Montana company with six locations. We specialize in tires, automotive repairs, commercial truck services, and fleet maintenance.

We're proud of our hardworking team, commitment to quality workmanship, and reputation for taking care of our customers. As our company continues to grow, we're looking for dependable, skilled individuals who want to grow with us.

Position Overview

We're looking for an experienced Automotive Mechanic / Alignment Technician to join our Helena Commercial Center team.

Our shop focuses on steering and suspension repairs, brakes, wheel alignments, and general mechanical services on passenger vehicles, light trucks, and commercial vehicles.

This position requires someone who can confidently diagnose mechanical problems, perform quality repairs, complete detailed vehicle inspections, and accurately look up parts and labor to prepare repair estimates using our integrated shop management system.

If you enjoy hands-on mechanical work but don't want to spend your days buried in major engine or transmission replacements, this could be a great fit.

We also perform commercial semi-truck alignments. Commercial alignment experience is a plus, and training is available for experienced automotive technicians looking to expand their skills.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform accurate wheel alignments on passenger vehicles and light trucks, with opportunities to perform commercial semi-truck alignments.

• Diagnose and repair steering and suspension systems, including ball joints, tie rods, control arms, bushings, shocks, and struts.

• Diagnose and repair brake systems.

• Perform general mechanical repairs, including alternators, water pumps, radiators, belts, hoses, and related components.

• Diagnose mechanical concerns and determine appropriate repair solutions.

• Perform thorough digital vehicle inspections, documenting vehicle conditions, identifying needed repairs, and providing clear recommendations.

• Research parts, determine required labor, and build accurate repair estimates within our integrated point-of-sale and shop management system.

• Document inspection findings and recommended repairs clearly for service advisors and customers.

• Verify parts availability and repair requirements before beginning work.

• Perform test drives to verify concerns and completed repairs.

• Communicate effectively with service advisors, management, and fellow technicians.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Assist with tire services and other shop responsibilities as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Previous professional automotive repair experience required.

• Hands-on experience performing passenger vehicle and light-truck wheel alignments required.

• Proven ability to diagnose steering, suspension, brake, and general mechanical problems.

• Experience inspecting vehicles, identifying necessary repairs, and making accurate repair recommendations.

• Ability to look up parts, determine labor requirements, and prepare repair estimates using automotive software.

• Comfortable using computers, digital inspection tools, and shop management systems.

• Ability to work independently, prioritize jobs, and complete repairs accurately and efficiently.

• Strong attention to detail, dependability, and communication skills.

• Valid driver's license.

• Ability to safely perform the physical demands of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing commercial truck or semi-truck alignments.

• Familiarity with Hunter alignment equipment.

• Experience using AutoLeap or similar automotive shop management software.

• ASE certifications.

• Additional experience with light-duty and commercial vehicle suspension systems.

Compensation & Benefits

$20?$35 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and mechanical abilities.

We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Health insurance

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid vacation

• Holiday pay

• Boot allowance program

• Opportunities for additional training and career advancement

Why Join Kolar Tire & Auto?

At Kolar Tire & Auto, we believe in giving our employees the opportunity to do quality work, develop their skills, and build a long-term career.

Our Helena Commercial Center offers a variety of mechanical work without the constant demands of major engine or transmission overhauls.

You'll work alongside an experienced team, have opportunities to expand your skills into commercial vehicle alignments, and be part of a growing Montana company that values hard work, accountability, and teamwork.

We're looking for an experienced mechanic who can do more than turn wrenches?someone who can diagnose problems, inspect vehicles thoroughly, identify the correct repairs, and take ownership of their work from start to finish.

Ready for a change? Apply today and join the Kolar Tire & Auto team!