How does your shop stack up? · Technician Find Community

How does your shop stack up?

I was asked recently by a podcast host what technicians should look for when searching for a shop.

I answered off the cuff with what I've seen over the years that separates the shops that really take care of their employees from those who don't.

I thought it was a pretty good answer in the moment but the question nagged at me long after the interview.

So I teamed up with my buddy ChatGPT and ran some prompts to find out what the common threads are between the shops we've worked with that hire faster and retain longer.

Then I compiled them together into a checklist for technicians (see below).

How does your shop stak up with my list?

Am I on the mark or totally off-base?

Would love to get your feedback.

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Technician's Checklist for Identifying a Good Auto Repair Shop to Work For:

1. Company Culture & Values

Prioritizes culture-fit when hiring.
Demonstrates clear mission and core values emphasizing integrity, communication, and teamwork.
Environment encourages positive attitude, open communication, and mutual support.

2. Leadership & Management

Owner or management has direct industry experience as technicians.
Management maintains an open-door policy for employees.
Regular, structured feedback meetings between management and employees (e.g., quarterly goals meetings, daily huddles and 1-on-1's).

3. Work Environment

Well-equipped, Modern facilities with necessary diagnostic tools and equipment.
Access to comprehensive resources, including tools, laptops/tablets, diagnostic software, and digital inspection processes.
Shop promotes efficiency and organized workflow to minimize downtime and maximize earning potential.

4. Training & Development

Strong emphasis on ongoing training and professional development (ASE certifications encouraged and incentivized).
Clearly defined apprenticeship or mentorship programs.
Opportunities to attend industry-specific training courses and certifications, often employer-paid.

5. Pay & Financial Incentives

Transparent pay structure (hourly, flat-rate, or salary clearly communicated).
Competitive earning potential ($100K+ annually, depending on role and efficiency).
Regular and transparent bonus structures or profit-sharing opportunities.

6. Employee Benefits

Comprehensive health insurance options (including medical, dental, vision, and supplemental plans such as AFLAC).
Retirement savings plans (401(k) or IRA) with employer matching.
Generous PTO (paid vacation and sick leave), and clearly outlined holiday pay.

7. Work-Life Balance

No mandatory weekend or holiday hours.
Reasonable daily hours, with options for flexibility (potential four-day workweeks).
Strong support for personal and family time (e.g., time off for family events, holidays, emergencies).

8. Supportive Team Environment

Friendly atmosphere where employees regularly help each other.
No favoritism; fair work dispatching procedures in place.
Regular team meetings to share experiences, resolve issues, and build camaraderie.

9. Employee Appreciation

Recognition of individual milestones (birthdays, anniversaries, ASE certifications).
Regular employee appreciation events or gestures (e.g., company meals, bonuses for special occasions).
Acknowledgment and reward for individual and team achievements.

10. Safety & Working Conditions