Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians

Overview
Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Job Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Examples

These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, and tellers.

Diagnose, inspect, adjust, repair, or overhaul recreational vehicles including travel trailers. May specialize in maintaining gas, electrical, hydraulic, plumbing, or chassis/towing systems as well as repairing generators, appliances, and interior components. Includes workers who perform customized van conversions.

Salary Salary

Salary at 10th Percentile: $27K
Salary at 25th Percentile: $33K
Median Salary: $40K
Salary at 75th Percentile: $51K
Salary at 90th Percentile: $63K

Demand
Career Demand by State Career Demand by State Legend
Core Tasks

Explain proper operation of vehicle systems to customers.

Locate and repair frayed wiring, broken connections, or incorrect wiring, using ohmmeters, soldering irons, tape, or hand tools.

Confer with customers, read work orders, or examine vehicles needing repair to determine the nature and extent of damage.

Examine or test operation of parts or systems to ensure completeness of repairs.

Repair plumbing or propane gas lines, using caulking compounds and plastic or copper pipe.

Connect electrical systems to outside power sources, and activate switches to test the operation of appliances or light fixtures.

Connect water hoses to inlet pipes of plumbing systems, and test operation of toilets or sinks.

Inspect recreational vehicles to diagnose problems and perform necessary adjustment, repair, or overhaul.

Diagnose and repair furnace or air conditioning systems.

Inspect, repair, or replace brake systems.

Repair leaks with caulking compound or replace pipes, using pipe wrenches.

List parts needed, estimate costs, and plan work procedures, using parts lists, technical manuals, or diagrams.

Remove damaged exterior panels, and repair and replace structural frame members.

Open and close doors, windows, or drawers to test their operation, trimming edges to fit, as necessary.

Reset hardware, using chisels, mallets, and screwdrivers.

Refinish wood surfaces on cabinets, doors, moldings, or floors, using power sanders, putty, spray equipment, brushes, paints, or varnishes.

Seal open sides of modular units to prepare them for shipment, using polyethylene sheets, nails, and hammers.

Technology Skills
Technology
Example
Hot Technology
Data base user interface and query software
Topline Software Solutions Topline Service Manager
Electronic mail software
Email software
Inventory management software
Inventory tracking software
Office suite software
Microsoft Office
Point of sale POS software
Summit Ordering Systems RvInvoiceWriter
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Web page creation and editing software
Facebook
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Tools Used
Tool
Example
Batteries and generators and kinetic power transmission
Recreation vehicle RV battery chargers
Computer Equipment and Accessories
Laptop computers
Electrical equipment and components and supplies
Jumper cable sets
Hand tools
Hog ring pliers
Industrial pumps and compressors
Portable air compressors
Laboratory and scientific equipment
Portable digital manometers
Material handling machinery and equipment
Wheel chocks
Measuring and observing and testing instruments
Polarity testers
Metal cutting machinery and accessories
Pipe reamers
Personal safety and protection
Protective safety glasses
Security surveillance and detection
Gas leak detectors
Transportation components and systems
Brake spoons
Transportation services equipment
Tire changing machines
Welding and soldering and brazing machinery and accessories and supplies
Metal inert gas MIG welders
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Customer and Personal Service
81%
Importance

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Mechanical
81%
Importance

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Administration and Management
60%
Importance

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Building and Construction
56%
Importance

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Production and Processing
54%
Importance

Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

English Language
53%
Importance

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Sales and Marketing
52%
Importance

Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

Computers and Electronics
49%
Importance

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Engineering and Technology
49%
Importance

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Education and Training
46%
Importance

Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Top 10 Skills
Repairing
78%
Importance

Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Troubleshooting
70%
Importance

Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

Active Listening
68%
Importance

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking
68%
Importance

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking
68%
Importance

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Complex Problem Solving
65%
Importance

Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Equipment Maintenance
63%
Importance

Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

Equipment Selection
63%
Importance

Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Operation and Control
63%
Importance

Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

Operations Monitoring
63%
Importance

Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Top 10 Abilities
Near Vision
78%
Importance

The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Manual Dexterity
75%
Importance

The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

Oral Comprehension
75%
Importance

The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Oral Expression
75%
Importance

The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Problem Sensitivity
75%
Importance

The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Control Precision
73%
Importance

The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

Finger Dexterity
70%
Importance

The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

Deductive Reasoning
68%
Importance

The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Extent Flexibility
68%
Importance

The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Arm-Hand Steadiness
65%
Importance

The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

Top 10 Work Activities
Getting Information
83%
Importance

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material
83%
Importance

Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
79%
Importance

Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Handling and Moving Objects
78%
Importance

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
78%
Importance

Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

Performing General Physical Activities
78%
Importance

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
77%
Importance

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
74%
Importance

Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
73%
Importance

Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
70%
Importance

Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Detailed Work Activities

Explain use of products or services.

Repair electrical circuits or wiring.

Repair pipes to stop leaking.

Read work orders or descriptions of problems to determine repairs or modifications needed.

Inspect vehicles to determine overall condition.

Confer with customers or users to assess problems.

Inspect completed work to ensure proper functioning.

Connect electrical components or equipment.

Connect hoses to equipment or piping.

Repair defective engines or engine components.

Inspect mechanical components of vehicles to identify problems.

Inspect systems to determine if they are operating properly.

Repair worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.

Estimate costs for labor or materials.

Plan work procedures.

Record information about parts, materials or repair procedures.

Remove parts or components from equipment.

Repair non-engine automotive or vehicle components.

Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.

Cut materials according to specifications or needs.

Reassemble equipment after repair.

Refinish wood or metal surfaces.

Seal gaps or cracks to prevent leakage or moisture intrusion.

Work Context
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?

Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls

How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?

Outdoors, Exposed to Weather

How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?

Spend Time Standing

How much does this job require standing?

Face-to-Face Discussions

How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?

Exposed to Hazardous Equipment

How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?

In an Open Vehicle or Equipment

How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?

Frequency of Decision Making

How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?

Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions

How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?

Contact With Others

How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?

Education
Majors
Major
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians
Interests
Realistic
100%
Importance

Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.

Investigative
67%
Importance

Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.

Conventional
58%
Importance

Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

Enterprising
34%
Importance

Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Artistic
19%
Importance

Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

Social
19%
Importance

Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Top 10 Work Styles
Attention to Detail
88%
Importance

Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Dependability
86%
Importance

Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Integrity
82%
Importance

Job requires being honest and ethical.

Cooperation
80%
Importance

Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Independence
79%
Importance

Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.

Self Control
79%
Importance

Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Adaptability/Flexibility
77%
Importance

Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Persistence
76%
Importance

Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

Stress Tolerance
75%
Importance

Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

Initiative
74%
Importance

Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Work Values
Support
62%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

Independence
58%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

Relationships
48%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

Working Conditions
48%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

Achievement
43%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

Recognition
39%
Importance

Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.