Career Voyages - Automotive Jobs - Collision Repair Technician

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From Automotive Retailing Today...

Job Definition

A collision repair technician evaluates collision damage and performs body repair on vehicles in compliance with factory and dealership specifications.

In large shops, automotive collision repair technicians may specialize in one type of repair, such as frame straightening, door and fender repair, or glass replacement. Some collision repair technicians specialize in repairing fiberglass car bodies.

As with all positions with dealerships, collision repair technicians are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards.

Job Duties

The duties of a collision repair technician include:

Analyzing vehicle damage and working with the estimator to determine the cost of the repair.
Straightening bent bodies, removing dents and replacing damaged parts that are beyond repair.
Pulling or knocking out less serious dents, pits and dimples.
Refinishing metal using a variety of tools, from metal cutting guns and hydraulic jacks to small pneumatic hammers and punches.
Repairing or replacing plastic body parts, which are used increasingly in modern vehicles.
Removing damaged panels and identifying the family and properties of the plastic used on the vehicle in order to determine the best method of repair before painting.

Job Requirements

It is important for collision repair technicians to have a solid knowledge base of the many functions required in repairing damaged body parts and vehicle bodies. Candidates should be able to interpret vendor products and catalogs. Two years experience in an apprentice program is recommended. A valid driver's license is also important.

An employee working in the body shop needs to give strong attention to detail and have an interest in automotive repair and technology.

People working within the automotive industry often have to work extended hours, evenings and weekends to achieve their goals.

Education Requirements

High school diploma or the equivalent. Certifications from Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (ICAR) or Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) are preferred.

A background in art, business and automotive classes is useful.

Career Path

Collision repair technicians can work to become body shop managers or body repair shop owners.

Salary Range

The average annual earnings of collision repair technicians are approximately $27,000 to $71,000. Earnings vary depending on experience, and the dealer's geographic location and size.

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Benefits

Benefits vary by employer, but most dealerships offer on site training, health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefit options. Talk with the specific dealer human resource manager about benefit packages.

Physical Demands

Working in the automotive industry can be physically demanding. Certain positions require employees to spend most of their workday on their feet and to carry heavy and awkwardly sized items. A reasonable level of physical fitness and flexibility is beneficial.

(Source: Automotive Retailing Today.)

Education and Training in Automotive


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