Garage Manager

Job Description:

Garage managers are responsible for the day-to-day running of a garage workshop.

Job Category:
Automotive & Aviation

What you will do:

You’ll be:

  • supervising a team of mechanics
  • dealing with customers
  • organising bookings and assigning work to mechanics
  • ordering parts
  • checking the quality of work
  • controlling a budget
  • recruiting staff
  • managing fleet accounts for commercial clients

You could work with cars, lorries, passenger vehicles and construction plant equipment.

 

Skills:

You’ll most likely need:

  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • business management skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As well as:

  • the ability to motivate and manage staff (leadership skills)
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • customer service skills
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to organise your time and workload (organisational skills)

 

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You’ll need a vehicle technician qualification and several years’ experience in the motor trade.

You’ll also need a full driving licence.

Working Hours and Environment:

You’ll usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week.

You could work in an office, at a garage or in a workshop. Your working environment may be noisy and dirty. You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience you could become a fleet maintenance, service centre, or general business manager with a manufacturer’s dealership.

You could also become a technical manager, specialising in a particular area like heavy commercial vehicles or motorsport.

In the UK, an IMI Accreditation for Management could help you progress in your career.