Garage Lab Mechanic - SEMA in Diamond Bar, California at Specialty Equipment Market Association

ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW:

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) together represent the heart of the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries. United by a passion for cars, trucks, SUVs, and racing of every kind, these organizations support a vibrant global marketplace that spans performance parts, advanced racing technologies, restoration, restyling, and the full spectrum of specialty automotive innovation.

SEMA is a dynamic, business-minded nonprofit trade association made up of manufacturers, distributors, retailers, builders, publishers, race teams, and more—an industry ecosystem powering a nearly $53-billion-a-year retail market. Through industry-leading programs, advocacy, research, and world-class events—including the annual SEMA Show, one of the largest automotive trade shows in the world—SEMA helps its members grow, innovate, and succeed.

PRI extends this influence into the global racing marketplace. Since 1986, PRI has been the premier source of business intelligence, cutting-edge technology insights, and community connection for racing professionals. The annual PRI Trade Show in Indianapolis brings together over 1,000 exhibiting companies and thousands of racing stakeholders across every major discipline, supported by PRI’s industry-leading advocacy, media platforms, education programs, and year-round engagement.

Together, SEMA and PRI fuel the success of thousands of businesses, connect industry professionals worldwide, and preserve and grow the future of automotive performance and racing.

PURPOSE:

The SEMA Garage Mechanic supports member projects within the SEMA Garage – Diamond Bar by performing a wide range of mechanical, diagnostic, and technical evaluation tasks across diverse vehicle platforms, including gas, diesel, hybrid, EV, and alternative-fuel applications. This is a non-traditional mechanic role that prioritizes quality, organization, teamwork, and ownership of the workspace over flat-rate productivity. The position offers on-the-job training and is ideal for candidates eager to grow their skills in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform mechanical work ranging from basic service to advanced diagnostics and technical evaluations.
• Install, remove, and evaluate aftermarket components for SEMA member companies, including performance, suspension, wheel/tire, body, and accessory systems.
• Support measurement sessions, product fitment reviews, R&D activities, and vehicle-based engineering evaluations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional shop environment with a strong sense of workspace ownership.
• Operate shop tools and equipment (all provided), including lifts, diagnostic tools, fabrication tools, and specialty equipment.
• Collaborate with Garage staff, engineers, OEM partners, and visiting member companies in a customer-facing, technical setting.
• Assist with special projects, prototype work, and vehicle preparation as assigned.

RELATIONSHIPS:

• Reports to Lab Manager
• Interacts with all SEMA Garage staff
• Supports SEMA manufacturing members
• Engages with OEM & aftermarket automotive community

Pay Range: $30 - $38 hourly

PRIMARY SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:

• Broad mechanical background covering diagnostics, service, repair, and installation across multiple vehicle technologies.
• Ability to identify mechanical issues, evaluate fitment concerns, and communicate findings clearly.
• Familiarity with powertrain, suspension, braking, chassis, electrical, and diagnostic systems.
• Strong organizational habits and pride in maintaining a professional, orderly shop.
• Team-oriented mindset and comfort working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Passion for automotive performance and the aftermarket industry.
• Desire to grow—this role rewards curiosity, initiative, and continuous skill development.
• Fabrication skills a plus, including MIG/TIG welding and basic metalwork.

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all responsibilities, skills, relationships or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary.