Adjust, repair, or overhaul automotive vehicle bodies. Specialized mechanics that focus on the maintenance and adjustment of the frames and bodies of cars. This is separate from an automotive technician, in that body technicians focus on repair of the outside appearance and repair of vehicles.
Make a Difference
A Typical Day
- File, grind, sand, and smooth filled or repaired surfaces, using power tools and hand tools.
- Inspect repaired vehicles to ensure that repairs are successful.
- Fit and weld replacement parts into place
- Prime and paint repaired surfaces
- Follow supervisors' instructions as to which parts to restore or replace and how much time the job should take.
Recommended Credentials
High school diploma or equivalent
Education & Training
Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.
Northwest Lower Michigan
Pursue a two-year degree or certificate at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC).
Complete a Master Automotive Technician, Certificate of Achievement (Level III) at NMC.
There are also a number of other certificates available to specialize further. Find them here.
Many technical schools and community colleges that offer two-year degrees related to automotive repair.
Explore This Career
Try it before you buy it!
Tinker with tools! Take something apart and put it back together.
The Local Advantage Learning Pathway
Pathway 1
Check out Northwest Education Services' Auto Body Repair program or something similar to start!
Pathway 2
Many shops have additional training on-the-job that can help you learn, while working and being paid at the same time!
Pathway 3
There are professional certificates, such as through the ASE Educational foundation, which, in combination with experience, can make you more appealing as a worker.
Sample Employers in Our Region
Click the logos below to learn more.
TIP
Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.
Sample Job Titles...
Auto Body Repair Technician (Auto Body Repair Tech), Auto Body Repairman, Automotive Body Technician (Auto Body Tech)
Hear It From The Pros
10-Year Job Growth Projections
Employed Regionally
Wage Range & Median 10-County Region
Annual Hires Regionally
Other Regional Career Resources
Learn more about Automotive Body and Related Repairers at O*NET Online.