Top 25 RV Technician Interview Questions with Insightful Answers

Getting hired as an RV technician can be a challenging process. You’ll likely have to face a rigorous interview consisting of both technical questions about the role and behavioral ones aimed at understanding your personality and fit for the position.

Thorough preparation and practice are key for shining in your RV technician interview. To help you ace the process, we’ve compiled a list of the 25 most common interview questions for RV technicians along with tips on how to answer them confidently

1. Why are you interested in working as an RV technician?

Focus on conveying your passion for the role and expertise with RVs. Highlight relevant skills like technical aptitude, problem-solving, attention to detail, and customer service. Explain why the traveling aspect attracts you and your desire to help RVers have safe, reliable journeys. Emphasize how your background and capabilities make you an asset for the position.

Sample Answer: As someone with a lifelong passion for mechanics and problem-solving, becoming an RV technician seems an obvious career path. I’ve always found RVs fascinating with their blend of homes and vehicles. My background in automotive repair has equipped me with the technical foundation needed for this role. I look forward to utilizing my skills in electrical, plumbing, carpentry and more to ensure RVs operate smoothly. Most of all, I’m eager to join a company dedicated to helping travelers enjoy safe, comfortable RV adventures across the country.

2. What experience do you have working on RVs or related systems?

Highlight hands-on experience with repairing and maintaining RVs or transferable skills from working on automobiles, trucks, boats etc. Demonstrate a solid grasp of technical concepts involved through specific examples. Focus on competencies relevant to the job like electrical systems, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC etc.

Sample Answer Though this would be my first formal role as an RV technician, I have over 5 years of experience working on RV systems through my automotive repair jobs I’ve handled tune-ups, generator repair, plumbing fixes and AC troubleshooting on RVs My background includes overhaul of truck and bus transmissions, alignments and managing fleet maintenance – skills that directly translate to working on RVs. I’m well-versed in technical concepts like electrical systems, running gear, hydraulics and more that are crucial for this job.

3. How would you inspect an RV to determine necessary repairs or maintenance?

Show a systematic approach starting from visual inspection before using diagnostic tools. Cover critical components like slide-outs, leveling, tires, drivetrain, appliances etc. Convey diligence and attention to detail. Focus on preventative maintenance too.

Sample Answer: My inspection process would start with a thorough visual examination of both the exterior and interior, looking for any obvious issues. I check vital components like slide-outs, tires, leveling jacks, doors, windows and seals for wear and damage. Moving to the interior, I scan appliances, electrical systems, plumbing fixtures, furnaces, AC units etc. I also inspect the basement storage area and undercarriage. For deeper issues not visible on the surface, I rely on computer diagnostics tools to check each system and component. This allows me to get a comprehensive picture of the RV’s condition and create a repair/maintenance plan priorities any urgent fixes to ensure safe operation. My focus is both on fixing current issues and preventative care to avoid large problems down the road.

4. How do you stay up to date on the latest RV models, parts and diagnostics/repair technology?

Convey your commitment to continuous learning. Mention reading industry magazines, attending trade events, connecting with manufacturers and online forums. Share examples of recent developments you’ve learned about. Emphasize the importance of staying current to provide excellent service.

Sample Answer: The RV industry evolves very rapidly, so learning every day is imperative in this role. I stay up to date by reading industry-specific publications like RV Pro, Trailer Life and Woodall’s. I also attend trade shows and events like America’s Largest RV Show to experience new models and technology firsthand. Another great resource is manufacturer training – I’ve participated in virtual seminars from leading brands like Grand Design, Keystone and Winnebago to understand the intricacies of their new models. I also participate in online forums with other technicians to share knowledge on emerging trends and issues. With technology advancing so fast, ongoing education is the only way to remain competent in this field.

5. How would you handle an unhappy customer with a complaint about an RV repair?

Emphasize listening patiently and empathetically, apologizing for their bad experience and taking ownership even if the fault may not be yours. Explain your approach of diagnosing the root cause, providing options to make it right and following up to ensure satisfaction. Convey a commitment to honest, ethical service.

Sample Answer: I would listen closely with empathy, sincerely apologize for their dissatisfaction and assure them I will diagnose the issue. I’d ask questions to understand specifically what went wrong and manage expectations on repair timelines. Once the problem is identified, I’d explain the fix options in simple terms and provide cost estimates. With their approval, I’d ensure the repair is done to their satisfaction – following up promptly and requesting feedback. Customer service is vital in this job – I take responsibility for every repair as if my name were on the RV. My goal is honest, ethical service so even if I didn’t cause the original issue, I aim to provide a solution.

6. How do you prioritize when scheduling multiple repairs with varying urgency, complexity and deadlines?

Highlight balancing factors like safety implications, repair difficulty, customer travel plans and parts availability. Convey your workflow efficiency and ability to multi-task without compromising quality. Provide examples of handling high priority rush repairs if possible.

Sample Answer: When juggling multiple repairs, I always prioritize based on factors like safety, customer travel schedules and work complexity. Repairs that impact operational safety – such as brake issues or propane leaks – get top priority. If a customer has upcoming travel plans, I try to complete their work first. Logistically, I also consider the parts and technician time needed for each repair. Quick jobs may get scheduled together. I balance focus between high priority rush repairs that need my full attention and those running smoothly that just need monitoring. With good communication, detailed notes and checklists, I can effectively manage competing demands. My aim is maximizing workflow and quality for both urgent rush jobs and longer repairs requiring multiple phases.

7. How do you ensure workstation safety when repairing an RV?

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of safety protocols when using hazardous tools, materials and accessing restricted spaces. Share specific steps you take like selecting proper PPE, isolating energy sources, ventilation, locking out equipment etc. Convey an intrinsic respect for safety rules. Provide related examples if you have them.

Sample Answer: Safety is my top priority when repairing RVs. Proper PPE like steel-toe boots, gloves, respiratory masks and protective eyewear based on the hazard is the first step I take. I isolate energy sources like propane tanks, shut off water and electricity feeds when working on those systems. My workstation is always kept clean and free of clutter. I allow no distractions when operating hazardous machinery. I strictly follow lock out/tag out procedures before accessing moving parts or restricted spaces. I set up proper ventilation when using chemicals. I stop immediately if I ever feel unsafe about any condition, tool or process and re-evaluate. Maintaining a safe environment protects myself, my co-workers and our customers.

8. How do you communicate complex technical details about repairs to customers who may not have expertise in RV mechanics?

Emphasize translating technical jargon into simple, relatable terms and analogies customers can easily grasp. Share examples of simplifying concepts like electricity flows or gears turning as blood circulating. Convey patience and a commitment to educating customers on RV care and maintenance.

Sample Answer: Communication skills are just as crucial as technical know-how in this field. I always explain issues and repairs in simple, easy to understand language for customers unfamiliar with RV systems. I use relatable analogies – comparing an electrical current to blood flowing or gears turning to digesting food – to get concepts across. I demonstrate issues visually whenever possible and provide instructions they can easily follow. My aim is that customers leave not only with a functional RV, but also greater knowledge of how their RV works and how to use and maintain it properly. Educating owners makes them safer drivers and helps prevent future headaches. Patience and understanding are key.

9. How do you inspect and maintain an RV generator?

Demonstrate expertise in regularly inspecting, testing, changing fluids, filters etc. Share key checkpoints like fuel lines, exhaust, hoses, ignition system, voltage. Highlight safety protocols when working on generators. Convey a meticulous, thorough approach.

Sample Answer: Generators are RV lifelines, so comprehensive maintenance is critical. For inspections, I check fuel lines and filters for any corrosion or leaks. I ensure wiring is intact with no exposed copper. Exhaust piping must be free of leaks or blockages. Radiator hoses should be supple, not dried or cracked. The ignition system, spark plugs and battery must be in prime condition. I always test voltage output. Oils levels and quality are inspected – I recommen