Automotive Technician Apprenticeship for Military Veterans - Chula Vista

Summary

Chula Vista Kia in Chula Vista, California is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Automotive Service Technician.

This position is part of the Kia Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP), a structured apprenticeship program created by Kia America to help Military Veterans transition into the automotive industry. Through this program, participants gain hands-on dealership experience while completing a one-year competency-based apprenticeship that leads to Kia Service Technician certification.

VTAP provides Veterans the opportunity to work full-time at a participating Kia dealership while receiving the training, tools, and support needed to develop into highly skilled automotive technicians. The program is GI Bill approved, allowing eligible Veterans to receive Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) during their apprenticeship.

As an Automotive Technician Apprentice, you will work alongside experienced technicians and service professionals while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to diagnose, service, and repair Kia vehicles.

Job Responsibilities

Diagnose, maintain, and repair Kia vehicles, including engines, transmissions, steering, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and electrical systems

Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs using Kia diagnostic procedures and equipment

Complete repair orders and warranty documentation according to Kia and dealership policies

Test drive vehicles and verify repair quality using appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment

Communicate effectively with service advisors and shop foremen to ensure a positive customer experience

Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment while following dealership safety procedures

Requirements

Honorable Discharge from U.S. Military Service

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record

Prior experience in a mechanical or technical field

Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced dealership service environment

Willingness to complete background check and drug screening

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

Basic automotive maintenance or repair experience

Familiarity with diagnostic tools and hand tools

Experience working with engines, electrical systems, or mechanical equipment

ASE certifications or technical training (a plus)

Benefits

Kia VTAP Apprenticeship Highlights

Full-time employment with a participating Kia Retailer

A program designed specifically for Military Veterans, facilitated by Veterans

Participation in a one-year, competency-based GI Bill approved apprenticeship leading to Kia Service Technician certification

Eligible Veterans may receive a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) through the GI Bill during the apprenticeship

Job Description

Chula Vista Kia in Chula Vista, California is seeking Military Veterans with mechanical experience who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Automotive Service Technician.

This position is part of the Kia Veterans Technician Apprenticeship Program (VTAP), a structured apprenticeship program created by Kia America to help Military Veterans transition into the automotive industry. Through this program, participants gain hands-on dealership experience while completing a one-year competency-based apprenticeship that leads to Kia Service Technician certification.

VTAP provides Veterans the opportunity to work full-time at a participating Kia dealership while receiving the training, tools, and support needed to develop into highly skilled automotive technicians. The program is GI Bill approved, allowing eligible Veterans to receive Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) during their apprenticeship.

As an Automotive Technician Apprentice, you will work alongside experienced technicians and service professionals while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to diagnose, service, and repair Kia vehicles.

Job Responsibilities

Diagnose, maintain, and repair Kia vehicles, including engines, transmissions, steering, suspension, brakes, HVAC, and electrical systems

Perform vehicle inspections, diagnostics, and mechanical repairs using Kia diagnostic procedures and equipment

Complete repair orders and warranty documentation according to Kia and dealership policies

Test drive vehicles and verify repair quality using appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment

Communicate effectively with service advisors and shop foremen to ensure a positive customer experience

Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment while following dealership safety procedures

Requirements

Honorable Discharge from U.S. Military Service

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record

Prior experience in a mechanical or technical field

Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced dealership service environment

Willingness to complete background check and drug screening

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

Basic automotive maintenance or repair experience

Familiarity with diagnostic tools and hand tools

Experience working with engines, electrical systems, or mechanical equipment

ASE certifications or technical training (a plus)

Benefits

Kia VTAP Apprenticeship Highlights

Full-time employment with a participating Kia Retailer

A program designed specifically for Military Veterans, facilitated by Veterans

Participation in a one-year, competency-based GI Bill approved apprenticeship leading to Kia Service Technician certification

Eligible Veterans may receive a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) through the GI Bill during the apprenticeship