Service Manager in Training (MIT)

Oakes GMC•Kansas City, MO

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The 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 the Fixed Operations leadership team, the MIT gains 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. Oakes Auto Group is family-owned and locally operated, with a culture focused on stability, growth, and long-term career development. The role is based in the Kansas City metro and offers compensation of $7,000–$12,000 monthly. The schedule is full time, with availability Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM and Saturdays as needed. The employee may work across Oakes Auto Group locations as needed and must complete required OEM manufacturer training after hire.

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.
Comfort 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 through 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.
Able to lead teams, manage daily service operations, solve problems, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
Eager to learn, receptive to coaching, and ready to take on additional leadership responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

Motivation to grow into a Service & Parts Director position.
Enjoys coaching, developing, and motivating others.
Understands the importance of service department profitability and efficiency.
Able to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions.
Communicates effectively with employees, customers, and leadership.
Takes ownership and holds themselves accountable.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Able to balance multiple operational priorities throughout the day.
Eager to learn more about Parts Department operations.
Believes teamwork drives better results.
Leads with integrity, professionalism, and a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

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, with a focus 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 improvement opportunities, and help implement operational strategies.
Support customer satisfaction initiatives, address escalated concerns, and help 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.
Complete required OEM manufacturer training after hire.