Description

Helps to restore damaged vehicles to their original structural integrity, function, and appearance. Assists collision repair, structural, mechanical, and/or refinish technicians while learning about vehicle repair in order to advance. This position is usually supervised by an experienced technician. Duties may include parts disassembly, prep for painting, and vehicle re-assembly.

 

Personal Characteristics and Skills

Must enjoy working on cars and trucks, be mechanically inclined, and find satisfaction in repairs. Have self-confidence, pride in work, and good hand-eye coordination. Be physically fit to lift, bend, and work with both manual and power tools; have patience; and be willing to constantly learn. Be willing to work as a team player and research repair information as needed. Enjoy constant challenges.

 

Job Outlook

As vehicle population and miles driven increase every year, the need for quality collision repair will always be here. With an aging workforce, there is a constant need for new, entry-level technicians to take their place. Many technicians advance to other positions in the industry, demonstrating many career paths available from the technician position and leaving even more open positions.

 

Pre-Employment Education and Experience

Math, reading, and science are necessary to understand measuring, manufacturer’s procedures, and material characteristics. A high school education is expected with automotive training a plus. Post-secondary education in collision repair is recommended with continuing education throughout your career. This position usually follows experience as an entry-level technician.

 

Earnings

Earnings are usually on an hourly basis, starting around $7 – 8 per hour and increasing according to experience and value of work produced. Continuing education, additional experience and better tools can all contribute to higher income.

 

Career Path

There are both formal and informal apprenticeship programs between schools and repair businesses. Some repair businesses develop their own apprentice programs. Starting as a helper or entry-level technician, a person can gain skills and experience to repair increasingly complex damage, growing as an experienced collision repair technician. Future careers include collision repair or refinish technician, estimating, management, insurance, equipment or material suppliers, and education.

 

Continuing Education

As vehicle technology and repair techniques continue to evolve, on-going training is a must. Continuing education is available through many organizations, including vehicle manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair). Several certifications are available, including ASE, and the American Welding Society.

 

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