The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Automotive Body and Glass Repairers. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO AUTO BODY REPAIR & PAINTING DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT AUTO BODY REPAIRERS DO
Automotive body repairers restore, refinish, and replace vehicle bodies and frames, windshields, and window glass.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $47,390
Top 5 States
1. Alaska
$58,820
2. Washington
$56,500
3. Virginia
$54,650
4. Maryland
$54,020
5. California
$52,950
Bottom 5 States
50. Virginia
$38,200
49. Maine
$39,940
48. Oklahoma
$41,060
47. South Dakota
$41,230
46. New Mexico
$41,800
STEPS TO BECOME AN AUTO BODY REPAIRER
There are a couple ways to learn the skills to become an auto body repairer.
The first is to attend a technical school.
The second is through on-the-job training.
Students or beginners will first learn basic tasks, such as fixing minor dents, and eventually moving not more complex work like aligning car frames.
Certification isn’t required to become an auto body repairer but is offered from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Option 1: Technical School
Technical schools and community colleges may offer auto body repair programs to provide the training necessary to gain entry-level employment. Programs usually last 6 months – 2 years.
Option 2: On-the-Job Training
Gain experience by getting trained on the job.
Get Certification
Certification is available from the ASE. It is a standard credential for body repairers.
Become an Auto Body Repairer
It usually takes 2-3 years of experience to become a fully independent auto body repairer.
QUALITIES OF AUTO BODY REPAIRERS
Critical-Thinking Skills
Automotive body and glass repairers evaluate vehicle damage and determine necessary repair strategies. In some cases, they must decide if a vehicle is “totaled,” or too damaged to justify the cost of repair.
Ability to Work at Heights
Automotive body and glass repairers discuss auto body and glass problems, along with options to fix them, with customers. Workers must be courteous, good listeners, and ready to answer customers’ questions.
Detail Oriented
Automotive body and glass repairers must pay close attention to detail. Restoring a damaged auto body or windshield requires workers to have a keen eye for even the smallest imperfection.
Dexterity
Automotive body repairers’ tasks, such as removing door panels, hammering out dents, and using hand tools to install parts, require a steady hand and good hand–eye coordination.
Mechanical Skills
Automotive body repairers must know which diagnostic, hydraulic, pneumatic, and other power equipment and tools are appropriate for certain procedures and repairs. They must know how to apply the correct techniques and methods necessary to repair automobiles.
Physical Strength
Automotive body and glass repairers must sometimes lift heavy parts, such as door panels and windshields.
Time-Management Skills
Automotive body and glass repairers must be timely in their repairs. For many people, their automobile is their primary mode of transportation.