Mechanic Shop Lead

ADESA, a Carvana-owned company, currently operates in over 50 locations throughout the US. Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair, reconditioning, and auction remarketing, and many of our sites serve as market hub distribution centers. Our inventory comprises hundreds of thousands of vehicles across North America, from retail to commercial, OEM & more.

We work in a service industry and embrace a “we” versus “I” culture – help others, and they will help you. Our industry is fun, fast-paced, and competitive – and filled with the best people who are passionate about what they do.

We’re excited about the future! As an industry leader, ADESA is poised for a multi-year expansion, including huge investments in facilities, massive sales growth, and an ever-increasing inventory of vehicles! We are looking for great people who want to take this journey with us! Get a sneak peek into life at ADESA!

Role and Team

• Reporting to the Reconditioning Manager or other designated manager, you will serve as the primary people leader for the mechanical services department. You are responsible for managing a team of direct reports, including Auto Mech I, II, and III, holding them accountable for technical excellence, production throughput, and safety compliance while ensuring all vehicle repairs meet high standards for auction readiness.

• People Leadership & Accountability: Lead, manage, and hold the mechanical team accountable for daily performance. Monitor individual workloads, provide technical guidance, and ensure all technicians meet productivity and quality targets.

• Operational Oversight: Plan and coordinate daily shop activities to optimize productivity and profitability. Manage the flow of vehicles through the shop, ensuring diagnostic and repair timelines are met.

• Training & Mentorship: Oversee the onboarding and skill development of the technician team. Ensure Auto Mech I and II roles are developing toward higher proficiencies and that all staff are trained on shop safety and equipment.

• Performance Monitoring: Review repair orders and shop metrics to ensure accurate parts usage, labor hour management, and overall shop efficiency.

• Quality Control: Perform final inspections on repaired vehicles to ensure work is completed to ADESA and customer standards, reducing the risk of post-sale arbitration.

• Safety Leadership: Implement and strictly enforce all safety policies and OSHA requirements. Conduct regular shop safety audits and ensure all equipment is in a safe, working condition.

• Inventory & Supply Management: Monitor and maintain shop equipment and facility conditions. Coordinate with the parts department to ensure necessary supplies and components are available for scheduled repairs.

• Cross-Departmental Coordination: Communicate with Lot Operations, Detail, and Administrative teams to synchronize production flow and meet sale day deadlines.

• Other Duties: Perform any other duties assigned by the designated manager.

Skills and Attributes

• Technical Expertise: Advanced knowledge of automotive repair, diagnostics, and mechanical shop operations.

• Leadership Capability: Proven ability to lead a team of varying skill levels, delegate tasks effectively, and drive a culture of accountability.

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to review shop metrics and identify opportunities for workflow