Brown Motors CDJR

About Us

Brown Motors first opened our doors in 1898 as a general mercantile and harness shop maker under Benjamin Brown. Benjamin started his career as an apprentice harness maker and after saving up $100, he was able to go out on his own and start his business. Over the years Benjamin saw the need to adapt his business with the onset of the automobile. In the early 1900’s he began selling Harly Davidson motorcycles and Ford vehicles before dropping those and landing on selling Dodge cars in 1924. To this day, we continue to be one of the oldest continuously operating Chrysler Dodge Jee Ram franchises in the country and have been selling and servicing Ford/Lincon vehicles again since 1985. His spirit of hard work and dedication has survived over 4 generations and 124 years as the business has been owned and operated by the Brown Family since its inception. While having such an enduring presence within the Northern Michigan community, we feel strongly about giving back to our community that has supported us over the years. Brown Motors take pride in being fortunate enough to give back to various charities, nonprofits, and school organizations across the region. As a Business we always look to put the people who work here front and center. We look to accomplish this by doing a few core things. We look to invest back in the people that work here through competitive compensation, a well-kept place to work with state-of-the-art equipment, opportunities for on-the-job and offsite training, and the opportunity to advance your career within the organization all with a respect to your work-life balance and personal wellbeing. Also, we work to build a culture within the business of a customer first attitude where we provide solutions through open communication and working as a team to accomplish this. If you feel like Brown Motors is the type of business you would like to work with, we would be humbled to be able to sit down and discuss your future and how we can help achieve your goals.

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Under The Hood

Is the shop heated? Air conditioned?

Our shop is heated by waste oil and traditional gas furnaces. We have several fans for the few days in the summer where it gets "hot" in Northern Michigan.

What is the size of the team I’d be working with?

The dealership has almost 50 people working together. As far as the fixed department goes, we currently have: 8 Main Shop Technicians 3 Express Maintenance Technicians 3 Main Shop Service Advisors 1 Express Maintenance Advisor 1 Service Manager 1 Warranty Administrator 1 Cashier 1 Service Assistant 2 Service BDC reps 3 Parts Advisors 1 Parts Manager.

What are the shop hours and what are the shift timeframes?

The shop is open to the public Monday to Friday from 7:30-5:30 and Saturday from 8:00-1:00. Technician shifts are 8:00-5:00(hour lunch) Monday-Friday and the occasional Saturday.

What tools does the shop provide that are available for all technicians to use?

Brand specific specialty tools, diagnostic scan tools and software, Midtronics battery diagnostic equipment, SWIS technical assistance headset, digital osciliscope, electric brake force meter, ABS signal tester, diagnostic antenna kit, flodynamics fluid exchangers

What type of break room facility is provided?

We have an air conditioned break room with various kitchen utensils, Table/Chairs, Sink, Fridge/Freezer, Toaster Oven, Coffee Maker, and Microwave.

How many bays does your shop have?

We have 18 main shop bays and 3 express bays plus an alignment rack

How many repair orders do you average per month?

2021: 872

What is your parts ordering process?

After primary concern diagnostic and a vehicle check up part requests are sent electronically without the need to leave the service bay. Once a parts list is created it is sent electronically to the service advisors who sends a detailed estimate to the customer for approval. Technicians can see status from their computer without having to leave the service bay.

What is your policy on side work?

We are happy to allow you to work on your personal vehicle or your family members living under the same roof as you on your off days at the dealership. We ask you do not use any company tools, or our facilities outside of those rules. Also, although we have plenty of work to keep you busy and productive, if you choose to work offsite and outside of your scheduled time we are agreeable to that as long as it does not get in the way of your commitment to us.

Are there any other unique features of the work environment worth noting?

Brown Motors promotes a team environment and values the need for appropriate support staff to assist in efficient daily operations.

Do you offer any skills training or continuing education opportunities?

We provide paid training opportunities through online and in person classwork provided by the manufacturer.

Can you describe opportunities for career growth at your business?

Whenever we have a job opening or new position we first look within the business to fill the spot. We have several people currently holding positions within the dealership that started at more entry level jobs and worked their way up to the position they hold today.

Can you describe your performance review process?

We have an open door policy with all of management to discuss any item that may arise, no matter how small or large. Additionally, we have a quarterly review session to go over several key areas. We look to do this in a positive and constructive way so expectations are clearly defined.

What type of safety training is required?

We provide an introductory safety orientation to all employees and maintain all government required safety protocols following the training.

Can you describe how Techs work with and mentor younger techs?

We are developing a comprehensive apprentice program that gives new Technicians a path to follow. Once the Apprentice technician has passed a pre determined level of training and performance metrics we will give the Senior Master Technicians the opportunity to mentor them. If the Senior Technician chooses to do so there is a compensation method tied to their progression and performance.

How does your shop get involved with the local community?

The business as a whole supports several different organizations, schools, and non profits. We take pride in our ability to give back to the community we serve.

Do you do anything with local high schools or tech schools to encourage more students to enter the profession?

As we build out our apprentice program we plan to meet with our local High School program twice a year to look for potential candidates.

Where do you see the shop in five years?

In short, we are always looking to grow. If it is developing our current team to be more skilled and productive to what tools and equipment the shop has. We see a need within our community to offer more capacity that we currently provide, and with that we are looking to have our operations grow to fit that need. I look at our future as a progression to get to where we need to be. First, we are looking to add to our team and start developing the next generation of techs through a comprehensive and rigorous program that benefits the experienced and new techs in hand. Second, we look to modernize our processes and maximize our current footprint in terms of efficiency and utilization. Once we are able to accomplish these tasks it is our goal to expand our physical footprint and either add on more to our current facility or to construct and adjacent service, maintenance, and detail center. However you look at it, our future is bright.

Do you have an application form and how long does it typically take to complete?

We typically ask for a candidate resume to review, once we offer a position to someone and they accept we will then have them fill out a formal job application.

Do you phone screen applicants before doing in-person interviews?

We will start with a phone call if an applicant is a distance away and that would be more convenient for them as apposed to coming in. This is done on a case by case occasion.

What do your in-person interviews entail?

Typically we just sit down with someone and have a conversation with them. We like to listen what applicants have to say more than ask lengthy questions. We will ask the applicant to go over their past work experience and find out what questions they have for us.

Do you perform background checks, drug screening, or personality tests before hiring an applicant?

We reserve the right to do so.

Do you perform a skill assessment before hiring an applicant? If yes, what does it entail?

No, if we are hiring a skilled or trained technician we will just ask for a copy of their certifications.

After an in-person interview, approximately how long should I expect to wait for a rejection or an offer?

We generally call you back for a 2nd interview with a different set of people at the dealership.

Approximately how long does the full hiring process take from submitting the application to the time of the hiring decision?

This mostly depends when an applicant can make it in for an interview. We can determine fairly quickly if someone will be a good fit or not.

Student Tech / Apprentice Pay Range: $18 - $20/hour

Brown Motors is looking for individuals who are seeking a long-term career, motivated, eager to learn, willing to work with their hands, and enjoy problem solving. For those type of individuals Brown Motors has developed our Technician Apprentice Program. The program is designed for those with little to no formal Automotive Technician training. As a Technician Apprentice you will gain experience and knowledge from a combination of online, in person, and hands on training. Each Apprentice is paired with a Senior Mater Technician that has decades of experience who will mentor and guide you along this process. Along with paid training you will be provided with a set of tools for the duration of the program. The Technician Apprenticeship Program is broken down into seven blocks. At the completion of each block, the apprentice must successfully complete a pre-determined assessment for that block and demonstrate improved proficiency and competency. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be given the tools provided to you, and you will be promoted to the level of Technician II. Brown Motors is excited to introduce this rewarding career path and begin this journey with you.

Master Technician w/25+ Brand Experience Pay Range: $77,584 - $141,024/year ($37.30 - $67.80/hr)

For Technicians that are over 100% efficient and have 25 or more years of specific brand experience Brown Motors offers a higher entry Flat Rate wage. Flat Rate Pay of $37.20/hr Additional Heavy Duty Pay of $2.00/hr Weekly productivity bonus of $0.75 per flat rate hour 46-50 or Weekly productivity bonus of $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1 + 46-50 Hours produced pays $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1-55 Hours produced pays $2.00 per flat rate hour 55.1-60 Hours produced pays $3.00 per flat rate hour 60.1 Hours or more produced pays $5.00 per flat rate hour Min pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $37.20/HR and producing an avg of 40hrs @ 100% efficiency. Max pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $37.20/HR plus obtaining all potential bonuses and producing an avg of 60hrs @ 150% efficiency.

Master Technician Pay Range: $67,184 - $125,736/year ($32.30 - $60.45/hr)

Flat Rate Pay of $32.30/hr Additional Heavy Duty Pay of $2.00/hr Weekly productivity bonus of $0.75 per flat rate hour 46-50 or Weekly productivity bonus of $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1 + 46-50 Hours produced pays $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1-55 Hours produced pays $2.00 per flat rate hour 55.1-60 Hours produced pays $3.00 per flat rate hour 60.1 Hours or more produced pays $5.00 per flat rate hour Min pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $32.30/HR and producing an avg of 40hrs @ 100% efficiency. Max pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $32.30/HR plus obtaining all potential bonuses and producing an avg of 60hrs @ 150% efficiency.

Technician III Pay Range: $58,760 - $113,100/year ($28.25 - $54.38/hr)

Flat Rate Pay of $28.25/hr Additional Heavy Duty Pay of $2.00/hr Weekly productivity bonus of $0.75 per flat rate hour 46-50 or Weekly productivity bonus of $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1 + 46-50 Hours produced pays $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1-55 Hours produced pays $2.00 per flat rate hour 55.1-60 Hours produced pays $3.00 per flat rate hour 60.1 Hours or more produced pays $5.00 per flat rate hour Min pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $28.25/HR and producing an avg of 40hrs @ 100% efficiency. Max pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $28.25/HR plus obtaining all potential bonuses and producing an avg of 60hrs @ 150% efficiency.

Technician II Pay Range: $55,640 - $108,420/year ($26.75 - $52.13/hr)

Flat Rate Pay of $26.75/hr Additional Heavy Duty Pay of $2.00/hr Weekly productivity bonus of $0.75 per flat rate hour 46-50 or Weekly productivity bonus of $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1 + 46-50 Hours produced pays $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1-55 Hours produced pays $2.00 per flat rate hour 55.1-60 Hours produced pays $3.00 per flat rate hour 60.1 Hours or more produced pays $5.00 per flat rate hour Min pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $26.75/HR and producing an avg of 40hrs @ 100% efficiency. Max pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $26.75/HR plus obtaining all potential bonuses and producing an avg of 60hrs @ 150% efficiency.

Technician I Pay Range: $50,440 - $100,620/year ($24.25 - $48.38/hr)

Flat Rate Pay of $24.25/hr Additional Heavy Duty Pay of $2.00/hr Weekly productivity bonus of $0.75 per flat rate hour 46-50 or Weekly productivity bonus of $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1 + 46-50 Hours produced pays $1.00 per flat rate hour 50.1-55 Hours produced pays $2.00 per flat rate hour 55.1-60 Hours produced pays $3.00 per flat rate hour 60.1 Hours or more produced pays $5.00 per flat rate hour Min pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $24.25/HR and producing an avg of 40hrs @ 100% efficiency. Max pay is figured at the base flat rate pay of $24.25/HR plus obtaining all potential bonuses and producing an avg of 60hrs @ 150% efficiency.

Health Insurance Offered: Brown Motors provides $380.00 monthly towards health insurance plans with the remainder of the cost being a pre tax payroll deduction. If you choose to not partake in the company Health Insurance Program, Brown Motors offers up to $125.00 to supplemental insurance plans. I.E.: Dental, Vision, Life, Disability... etc There are two Health Insurance plans available which are within the Blue Care Network, a High (Plan A) and Low (plan B) deductible plan option. Option A: Employee only $27.84 per pay Employee / Spouse $288.61 per pay Employee / Child(ren) $132.81 per pay Family $381.58 per pay Option B: Employee only $61.62 per pay Employee & Spouse $365.71 per pay Employee / Child(ren) $181.10 per pay Family $485.20 per pay Further plan information can be shared upon request.
Dental Insurance Offered: DENTAL PLAN PAYROLL DEDUCTIONS: Employee only $18.51 per pay Employee plus 1 $38.34 per pay Employee with 2 or more $62.61 per pay Further plan information can be shared upon request.
Vision Insurance Offered: VISION PLAN PAYROLL DEDUCTIONS: Employee only $3.13 per pay Employee & Spouse $6.41 per pay Employee / Child(ren) $6.78 per pay Family $10.79 per pay Further plan information can be shared upon request.
Retirement Plan Offered: Brown Motors offers a potential total match of up to 4% of your earned wages. The way to maximize the match is paid on 100% of deferrals up to 3% of compensation and 50% of deferrals on the next 2% of compensation
Sick Leave Offered: You you are eligible for 40 hours of paid leave on an annual basis.
Vacation Offered: The amount of vacation earned is based on accumulated service as indicated in the following schedule. For applicants who are certified with CDJR or Ford/Lincoln, Brown Motors will apply your years of experience with those brands towards your accumulated service at Brown Motors: After one year of continuous service: 5 days After two years of continuous service: 10 days After nine years of continuous service: 15 days After 20 years of continuous service: 20 days
Paid Holidays Offered: Brown Motors is closed on the following days and offers it as a paid holiday to full time employees so they are able to enjoy the time with friends and family. New Year's Day Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day
ST / LT Disability Not Offered
Life Insurance Not Offered
Uniforms Offered: Uniforms and laundry services for Technicians are arranged by the dealership with an outside vendor. The cost of Uniforms and Laundry service is shared 50-50 with Brown Motors and the Technician. Safety glasses and rubber gloves are provided by Brown Motors. Brown Motors provides a one time allowance of $100.00 towards the purchase of prescription safety glasses. Brown Motors provides an annual allowance of $50.00 towards the purchase of steel toed safety boots.
Other Offered: Brown Motors offers used vehicles to be purchased at $100 over cost after the vehicle as ben in inventory for 60 days. New vehicle discounts are also available which are in accordance with Employee Purchase manufacturer programs. Brown Motors offers parts and labor discounts to all employees. Additional paid time off may be made available in the event of the death of an employee's spouse or child, father (in-law also), mother (in law also), of up to three consecutive days. In the event of the death of an employee's sister, brother, or grandparent, you may be paid for time lost from work for 1 day. Brown Motors recognizes that all employees have the civic responsibility of criminal or civil jury service if they are summoned to do so. Brown Motors will grant leave to employees called to jury duty according to applicable law. Employees shall receive an allowance equal to the difference in jury pay and the base daily wage such employee would otherwise receive from the company up to five (5) days.