Description

Teaches vehicle refinish courses in a technical educational program, school, or college. Prepares and manages classroom instruction, lab work, and other school requirements. May assist in curriculum development, budget management, and student career counseling.

Personal Characteristics and Skills

Must have good reading and communication skills. Must enjoy working with students in a learning environment, both in the classroom and in the shop. Must be patient, observant, and helpful with the wide range of student abilities. Must be detail oriented for student grades, material inventories, and work products.

Job Outlook

A vehicle’s appearance is an important part of collision repairs and the most obvious one. Refinish technicians require many skills to accomplish this work and are always in demand. Teaching these new workers in this specialty is critical for the future workforce.

Pre-Employment Education and Experience

Associate degree in collision repair technology is required. At least three years of on-the-job experience as a collision repair technician and ASE certification in multiple areas are required. Computer skills, teaching skills, and program development experience is preferred. Bilingual skills are a plus.

Earnings

Depending on location and school system, earnings may start between $32,000 and $40,000. Benefits may include insurance, pension plans, and school holidays.

Career Path

An experienced refinish technician is the direct path to this position. Many technicians start as part-time instructors while still working full time and grow in to a full-time instructor. From here, there are opportunities in school administration, material and equipment suppliers, and insurance companies.

Continuing Education

Technical education is available through I-CAR, paint companies, and equipment suppliers. School certification is available through NATEF.

 

see where this career fits within the repair process