Instructions Sample 4a: Comparing Entry-Level vs. Experienced Service Technician Duties List

Here’s a side-by-side adaptation of the same procedures for changing engine oil geared to both entry-level technicians and experienced technicians. Note that the differences aren’t always skill-based but also how much guidance, detail, and decision-making is built into the steps.

Changing Engine Oil

Entry Level Technician Experienced Technician
1. Confirm the vehicle 1. Verify vehicle specifications and oil requirements in the service system.
2. Position the vehicle on the lift and ask a supervisor to verify placement if needed 2. Position and lift the vehicle according to shop protocol.
3. Raise the vehicle slowly and ensure it is stable. 3. Drain engine oil and inspect for contamination or metal particles.
4. Place a drain pan under the oil drain plug. 4. Inspect and replace drain plug gasket as needed.
5. Remove the drain plug using the correct tool. 5. Torque drain plug to manufacturer specification.
6. Allow the oil to drain completely. 6. Replace oil filter and ensure proper seal.
7. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten securely (do not overtighten). 7. Refill with specified oil type and quantity.
8. Remove the old oil filter and install a new one. 8. Run engine, verify oil pressure, and check for leaks.
9. Lower the vehicle. 9. Reset oil life monitoring system.
10. Add the correct oil type and amount listed on the work order.
11. Start engine and check for leaks.
*Ask a supervisor if you are unsure about oil level or leaks.

Here are some additional examples comparing content for entry-level vs. experienced technicians

Rotating Tires

Entry-Level Technician

Steps:

    1. Review the rotation pattern provided on the work order.
    2. Loosen lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle.
    3. Raise the vehicle safely.
    4. Remove each wheel and place it near its new position.
    5. Install wheels in the new positions.
    6. Hand-tighten lug nuts.
    7. Lower the vehicle.
    8. Tighten lug nuts using a torque wrench set to the specified value.

Check:

    • Double-check torque settings with a supervisor if unsure.

Experienced Technician

Steps:

    1. Determine correct rotation pattern based on drivetrain and tire wear.
    2. Remove wheels and inspect for irregular wear or damage.
    3. Rotate tires accordingly.
    4. Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts to specification.
    5. Adjust tire pressures and reset TPMS if required.

Quality Check:

    • Verify even wear patterns and proper torque.

Inspecting Brake Pads

Entry-Level Technician

Steps:

    1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel.
    2. Locate the brake pads.
    3. Visually check pad thickness.
    4. Look for obvious damage or uneven wear.
    5. Report findings to a supervisor.

Decision Point:

    • Do not approve or reject parts—ask for confirmation.

Experienced Technician

Steps:

    1. Measure brake pad thickness using a gauge.
    2. Inspect rotor condition and caliper operation.
    3. Check for uneven wear, heat damage, or contamination.
    4. Compare measurements to manufacturer specifications.
    5. Document findings and determine service recommendations.

Decision Point:

    • Recommend replacement or continued use based on specs and condition.

Replacing a Car Battery

Entry-Level Technician

Steps:

    1. Confirm correct battery with parts department or work order.
    2. Turn off the vehicle.
    3. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive.
    4. Remove the battery carefully.
    5. Install the new battery.
    6. Connect the positive terminal, then the negative.
    7. Ensure terminals are tight.

Check:

    • Ask for help if the battery is heavy or difficult to access.

Experienced Technician

Steps:

    1. Verify battery specifications and system requirements.
    2. Disconnect and remove the old battery.
    3. Inspect and clean terminals and tray.
    4. Install and secure the new battery.
    5. Reconnect terminals in correct order.
    6. Perform system resets and battery registration if required.

Quality Check:

    • Confirm electrical system operation and charging performance.

Key Differences in Formatting and Content

  • Entry-level instructions
    • More detailed and explicit
    • Include guidance like “ask a supervisor”
    • Avoid independent decision-making
    • Focus on safe task completion
  • Experienced technician instructions
    • More concise and efficient
    • Include inspection, diagnosis, and judgment
    • Assume familiarity with tools and procedures
    • Emphasize quality checks and specifications

License

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Technical Writing for Technicians Copyright © 2019 by Will Fleming is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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