Service Manager in Training (MIT)Location: Oakes Auto Group | Kansas City Metro
Schedule: Full Time
Compensation: $7,000-$12,000 monthly
About the RoleThe Service Manager in Training (MIT) is a leadership development position designed to prepare an experienced automotive service professional for a future role as a Service & Parts Director.
Working alongside our Fixed Operations leadership team, you'll gain hands-on experience overseeing Service and Parts Department operations, managing workflow, developing employees, improving customer satisfaction, and driving department profitability.
This hybrid role provides exposure to operations across Oakes Auto Group without being assigned to one specific dealership.
Pay & Benefits- Competitive compensation based on experience and performance
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off + paid holidays
- Employee discounts
- Career growth across multiple stores
- Locally owned and operated
- Tuition reimbursement
- Community involvement and volunteer opportunities
What You'll Do- Work directly with Fixed Operations leadership to develop the skills and knowledge needed to become a Service & Parts Director.
- Assist in overseeing daily Service Department operations, focusing on productivity, efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
- Learn Parts Department operations, including inventory management, parts availability, workflow coordination, and departmental performance.
- Support service advisors, technicians, and parts personnel through coaching, training, and day-to-day leadership.
- Assist with technician workflow, repair order management, dispatching, and shop productivity.
- Monitor department performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and help implement operational strategies.
- Support customer satisfaction initiatives, address escalated concerns, and ensure a positive service experience.
- Develop an understanding of departmental financial performance, including labor sales, gross profit, expenses, and operational goals.
- Partner with leadership on employee development, accountability, manufacturer standards, and process improvements.
- Participate in hands-on leadership training to prepare for increased responsibility within Fixed Operations.
What We're Looking ForWe're looking for an experienced automotive service leader who is ready to take the next step in their career.
The ideal candidate has previous experience as an Assistant Service Manager or Service Lane Manager and is motivated to grow into a Service & Parts Director position.
You should be comfortable leading teams, managing daily service operations, solving problems, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. We're looking for someone who is eager to learn, open to coaching, and ready to take on additional leadership responsibilities.
What Makes YOU a Good Fit?You may be an excellent fit if you:
- Are ready to grow into a higher-level dealership leadership position
- Enjoy coaching, developing, and motivating others
- Understand the importance of service department profitability and efficiency
- Stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions
- Communicate effectively with employees, customers, and leadership
- Take ownership and hold yourself accountable
- Have strong organizational and time management skills
- Can balance multiple operational priorities throughout the day
- Are eager to learn more about Parts Department operations
- Believe teamwork drives better results
- Lead with integrity, professionalism, and a positive attitude
Requirements- Previous experience as an Assistant Service Manager or Service Lane Manager
- Strong understanding of automotive dealership service operations
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
- Ability to pass a standard background check
- Strong reliability and consistent attendance
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment
- Strong computer skills and ability to learn dealership management software
- Experience coaching, supervising, or developing automotive service teams
- Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities throughout the day
- Willingness to learn Parts Department operations and financial management
- Availability Monday-Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM, with Saturdays as needed
- Flexibility to work across Oakes Auto Group locations as needed
- Willingness to complete required OEM manufacturer training after hire
If you're an experienced service leader looking for an opportunity to develop into a Service & Parts Director, we'd love to hear from you!
