Automotive Service Writer / Parts Specialist
Are you looking for more than a job in the automotive industry—an opportunity to use your skills in a workplace where faith, service, and excellence come together? At our faith-based car sales ministry, every vehicle, customer interaction, and team effort supports a greater mission: helping people move forward with dignity, hope, and purpose. If you enjoy working with cars, solving problems, and being part of a Christ-centered team that values integrity, compassion, and meaningful impact, we invite you to consider joining us.
Position Summary
The Automotive Service Writer / Parts Specialist serves as the primary point of contact between sales department, technicians, and vendors. This position is responsible for providing exceptional customer service, accurately preparing repair orders and estimates, coordinating vehicle repairs, sourcing and ordering automotive parts, maintaining inventory, and ensuring an efficient workflow throughout the service department. The ideal candidate is highly organized, focused, and possesses strong automotive knowledge.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Service Writer Responsibilities
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Accurately document vehicle symptoms and repair requests.
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Create repair orders with complete detailed information for technicians.
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Prepare repair estimates and explain recommended repairs to sales team and supervisors.
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Obtain authorization before repairs are performed.
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Communicate repair progress, additional repair recommendations, and estimated completion times.
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Schedule service appointments and manage shop workflow.
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Coordinate with technicians to ensure efficient repair scheduling and completion.
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Review completed repair orders for accuracy before closing.
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Process invoices.
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Maintain accurate customer and vehicle records.
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Deliver exceptional customer service while resolving concerns professionally.
Parts Specialist Responsibilities
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Identify and source correct replacement parts using manufacturer catalogs, aftermarket systems, and vendor resources.
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Order parts from approved vendors while ensuring competitive pricing and timely delivery.
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Verify accuracy of received parts and inspect for damage.
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Maintain organized parts inventory and storage areas.
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Process returns, warranty claims, and core returns according to vendor requirements.
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Track special orders and communicate expected arrival times.
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Maintain inventory records and assist with inventory counts.
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Ensure technicians receive the correct parts in a timely manner.
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Monitor stock levels and recommend inventory replenishment.
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Maintain vendor relationships and negotiate when appropriate.
General Responsibilities
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Work closely with technicians, management, and other departments to ensure efficient shop operations.
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Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
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Follow company policies, safety procedures, and ethical business practices.
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Utilize shop management software, parts catalogs, and computer systems efficiently.
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Assist with additional administrative duties as assigned.
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Support the organization's mission and values through professional conduct and teamwork.
Qualifications
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High school diploma or equivalent required.
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Minimum of 2 years of automotive service writing, parts, or related automotive experience preferred.
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Strong understanding of automotive systems and repair terminology required.
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Experience with shop management software (Mitchell 1, Dealer Center, or similar) preferred.
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Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications preferred.
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Excellent communication and customer service skills required.
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Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks required.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team required.
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Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and must be 25 years of age or older required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
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Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
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Knowledge of automotive repair procedures and components.
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Ability to read and interpret repair information and parts diagrams.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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Strong attention to detail.
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Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
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Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
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Professional appearance and demeanor.
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Ability to maintain confidentiality when appropriate.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL FACTORS:
Occasionally = 1%-33%; Frequently = 34%-66%; Continuously = 67%-100%
Work is balanced between working indoors and outdoors. It requires climbing stairs, sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and going from building to building - Continuously.
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Requires working with a diverse population, many of whom struggle with homelessness, addiction, and mental illness – continuously.
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Requires a sustained level of high energy, stamina and the ability to move about all of the facilities on a regular and ongoing basis – frequently.
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Requires the ability to hear, see, and speak clearly – continuously.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:
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Computer literate with good proficiency using Word, Excel, Outlook; able to complete documents, reports and accurately record information.
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Excellent communication skills; written, verbal and instructional.
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Prove to be teachable; organized with the ability to manage multiple projects/tasks at once; able to listen and follow instructions.
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Valid Washington driver’s license – required.
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Clean driving record and insurable by our standards – required.
REQUIREMENT:
Union Gospel Mission is a privately funded 501 (c)3 non-profit, evangelical Christian ministry. Our designated purpose is religious, and we are a Christ-centered ministry which is dedicated to sharing the Gospel and helping the homeless and impoverished. We consider every position to be essential in the fulfillment of our ministry and Statement of Purpose. As such, each employee must have a relationship with Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord.
All employees must:
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Be able and willing to share the Gospel and participate in all of the ministry activities of Union Gospel Mission
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Subscribe to Union Gospel Mission Statement of Faith and Qualifications for Employment upon hire and continuously while employed
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Adhere to Union Gospel Mission Employee Handbook.
We offer a comprehensive and mission-aligned benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance. Our benefits include competitive health coverage, generous paid time off, retirement contributions after one-year of service, and opportunities for professional development - all within a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.
Highlights:
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance (options for employees, their spouse and children)
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Generous PTO (20 days annually with carryover) and 7 additional paid holidays (carryover limits may apply)
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Retirement plan with employer matching contribution starting at year one and building on years 3, 5 and 7 matching employee contribution up to 5% at year 7)
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Professional development support
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Mission driven culture
