Simba Corporation, a leading distributor of vehicles and services in Kenya and a diversified business group, are hiring a Technical Trainee – Automotive Service & Bodyshop Technician who will undergo a structured development programme designed to build technical, operational, and customer service competencies within the automotive service centre environment.
The Technical Trainee – Automotive Service & Bodyshop Technician will undergo a structured development programme designed to build technical, operational, and customer service competencies within the automotive service centre environment. Under the guidance of experienced technicians and supervisors, the trainee will gain practical exposure to vehicle diagnostics, servicing, repairs, bodyshop operations, accident repairs, and workshop processes, developing the skills required for a successful career in the automotive industry.
Key Responsibilities
Learning and Development
- Participate actively in all assigned training, coaching, and development programmes.
- Acquire knowledge of automotive systems, repair procedures, manufacturer standards, and safety requirements.
- Demonstrate continuous learning and application of acquired technical knowledge.
- Complete all assigned training modules, assessments, and development projects within specified timelines.
Vehicle Service and Maintenance
- Assist in conducting vehicle inspections and routine maintenance activities.
- Support servicing activities including oil changes, filter replacement, fluid checks, battery maintenance, and vehicle inspections.
- Assist technicians in troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and electronic faults.
- Support repair and replacement of vehicle components under supervision.
- Participate in pre-delivery inspections and vehicle quality checks.
Bodyshop Operations
- Assist in vehicle damage assessments and body repair processes.
- Support panel repair, dent removal, welding, sanding, filling, masking, and surface preparation activities.
- Assist in disassembly and reassembly of vehicle body components.
- Support accident repair and restoration activities under the guidance of experienced bodyshop technicians.
- Participate in vehicle preparation for painting and refinishing processes.
Workshop Operations
- Maintain workshop and bodyshop tools, equipment, and workstations in a clean and organized condition.
- Ensure proper handling and care of customer vehicles.
- Assist in the management of spare parts, consumables, and workshop materials.
- Support operational efficiency by adhering to established service procedures and turnaround timelines.
Health, Safety and Compliance
- Adhere to all occupational health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
- Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Follow safe handling procedures for automotive equipment, paints, chemicals, lubricants, and other hazardous materials.
- Report safety concerns, incidents, and equipment defects promptly.
Customer Service
- Demonstrate professionalism and customer-centric behaviour in all interactions.
- Support service advisors and workshop teams in delivering exceptional customer experiences.
- Uphold company values and standards of customer care.
Documentation and Reporting
- Assist in completing job cards, inspection reports, training records, and workshop documentation.
- Maintain accurate records of completed assignments and training activities.
- Prepare progress reports as required by supervisors and programme coordinators.
KPIs
- Learning & Technical Competence.
- Work Quality & Productivity.
- Health, Safety & Compliance.
- Documentation & Administrative Effectiveness.
- Professional Conduct, Teamwork & Customer Focus.
- Any other duties assigned by the immediate supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automotive Technology, or a related Engineering discipline from a recognized institution.
- Minimum of Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or equivalent.
- Minimum KCSE Mean Grade B+ (Plus).
- Fresh graduate, having graduated within the last two (2) years.
- Aged 24 years and below at the time of application.
- Demonstrated interest in automotive service, diagnostics, and body shop operations.
- Industrial attachment, internship, or practical exposure in an automotive workshop or body shop environment will be an added advantage.
- Possession of a valid driving license will be an added advantage.
Key Competencies
- Demonstrated interest and aptitude in automotive technology, vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and body shop operations.
- Strong learning agility, curiosity, and commitment to continuous professional development.
- Basic analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to learn technical diagnostic processes.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
- Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to service excellence.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
- Adaptability, resilience, and willingness to work in a fast-paced workshop environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety standards.
- Basic computer literacy and ability to learn automotive diagnostic and workshop management systems.
