Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Ask for credentials. Professional organizations such as Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have testing centers in all 50 states. Mechanics can get certified in specialties from transmission repair to complete engine rebuilding. With the ever-changing nature of cars these days, you want to be sure your mechanic is up-to-date in his training.
Step2
Get acquainted with the local community college auto mechanics instructors to find out when the bright young students are graduating. Many colleges keep updates of local employers in their guidance counseling offices. They will be up-to-date in new techniques and prime to be molded to fit in with your organization. Many high schools teach auto mechanics as well and some of those students, though not as mature as those with some college, are ready to be employed right out of high school.
Step3
Use an agency. You can put an order in with the local unemployment office or hire an agency to send you mechanics that they have pre-screened. Use a temp agency to try out mechanics before offering them fulltime employment. Agencies can check references; do drug tests and interview candidates, saving you a lot of time and energy.
Step4
Raid the competition. All new car dealerships employ mechanics who may not be really happy in their current situation. Big companies have more expectations about how a job should be done and how long it should take. Big corporations often take the fun out of a career. These guys may be open for an offer.