Position Overview
The Supervisor, Repair Research is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing repair research projects for U-Haul’s truck and trailer products. This role develops and evaluates new repair procedures, methods, and tools while supervising a team of technicians engaged in research and development. The Supervisor will collaborate with field locations, manufacturing plants, and internal departments to drive improvements, reduce costs, and support the introduction of new products and processes.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain reliable and predictable attendance.
Organize, schedule, and assign all repair research projects.
Develop new repair procedures, methods, and tools for the field.
Travel to field locations to gather input from plant and shop managers; review, evaluate, and recommend changes.
Draft or recommend updates to publications regarding truck and trailer products.
Supervise technicians engaged in research and development.
Coordinate R&D activities to support organizational goals for improvement, cost reduction, and product introduction.
Monitor projects and prepare progress reports that outline goals, objectives, and current status.
Analyze and resolve work problems; assist staff in problem-solving.
Conduct interviews, hire, terminate, and evaluate staff; recommend promotions, transfers, raises, and disciplinary actions.
Occasionally, work with field teams to gather feedback on new products or repairs.
Collaborate with the Art Department for “test fit” decal installations.
Education & Experience
Completion of auto mechanic school or equivalent experience required.
Minimum of 10 years’ experience in automotive repair, research, or related field.
Skills & Knowledge
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Effective interpersonal and leadership abilities.
Highly detail-oriented with strong multitasking capabilities.
Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel; ability to work in a computerized environment.
Knowledge of diagnostic and repair tools, including: forklift, Tech 2, NGS diagnostic tool, air/hand tools, drill press, shear, welder, and Hunter front-end alignment machine.
Work Environment
Primarily office-based with occasional exposure to noise, dust, heat, and cold in a shop setting.
Regular interaction with field personnel, Towers, Tech Center departments, and vendors.
Requires confidentiality due to handling of proprietary repair data, engineering designs, and product information.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Directly supervises 6–8 individuals.
Responsible for hiring, training, evaluating, and managing performance of staff.
Travel & Driving Requirements
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record required.
Ability to operate both automatic and standard transmission vehicles.
Business travel required (30+ days per year).
Physical & Mental Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, stoop, and stretch for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (assisted or unassisted).
Requires above-average agility, dexterity, and depth perception.
Must maintain concentration, adapt to changing environments, use sound judgment, and manage stress effectively.
Additional Requirements
Must sign and adhere to Confidentiality/Non-Compete agreement.
Maintain housekeeping practices and comply with all safety rules and procedures.
Report accidents and injuries immediately.
Follow just-in-time production methods and total quality control standards.
Stay informed by reviewing company publications and policy updates.
Assist in recovery of lost or stolen company property and perform customer service–related duties as needed.
U-Haul is an equal opportunity employer. All applications for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, provincial, state, or local law. Individual accommodations are available on requests for applicants taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Information obtained during this process will only be shared on a need to know basis.