Transport & Aviation

Automotive Body Repairer

SOC 49-3021.00 · ESCO 7213 · OSCA 351331

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Role snapshot

Overview

Restores damaged vehicle panels, frames, and finishes after collisions using welding, filling, and painting techniques. Assesses structural damage, orders replacement parts, and matches paint colours to factory specifications. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of vehicle construction and repair methods to ensure safety and aesthetic quality.

Ensures the safety and longevity of vehicles after accidents, restoring them to pre-collision condition. Contributes to road safety and customer satisfaction by performing high-quality, precise repairs.

On the job

  • Inspect damaged vehicles to assess the extent of collision damage and create repair estimates.
  • Disassemble and reassemble vehicle components, including body panels, interior parts, and electrical systems.
  • Repair or replace damaged body parts using hand tools, power tools, and specialized welding equipment.
  • Perform body filling, sanding, and priming to prepare surfaces for painting and ensure a smooth finish.
  • Mix and apply paint to match original factory colours and finishes, followed by clear coat application.
Automotive Body Repairer at work

Tools & technology

Welding equipment (MIG, TIG, Spot Welder)Hydraulic frame straightenersPaint spray guns and boothsSanders and grindersDiagnostic scanning tools

Average salary

$55K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$40K Bottom 10%
$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational training, diploma, or associate's degree in automotive body repair or collision repair technology.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Automotive Body Repairer
Collision Center Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Automotive Body Repairer

Transport & Aviation

ADJACENT MOVES

Automotive Refinishing Specialist
Automotive Service Technician Trainee
Auto Detailer
Auto Painter Apprentice

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RCI

Individuals who enjoy hands-on, practical work with tools and machinery, precise problem-solving, and following established procedures to achieve high-quality results often thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Highly detail-oriented and precise in repairs, ensuring safety and quality standards are met for every vehicle.

Methodical

Prefers a structured approach to problem-solving, following established repair procedures and technical specifications.

Calm under pressure

Maintains focus and composure when dealing with complex damage, tight deadlines, or unexpected repair challenges.

Cooperative

Works effectively with team members, sharing knowledge and coordinating tasks for efficient workflow.

Reserved

Tends to focus on the technical aspects of the job, preferring hands-on work over extensive social interaction.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy tangible results and seeing a project through from start to finish.
  • Those who appreciate precision, craftsmanship, and a methodical approach to problem-solving.
  • People who are self-reliant and enjoy working with tools and machinery.

Watch out for

  • Can be physically demanding, requiring lifting, bending, and working in various positions.
  • Exposure to chemicals, fumes, and loud noises in a workshop environment.
  • Requires continuous learning to keep up with new vehicle technologies and repair methods.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Automotive Body Repairer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team Huddle & Job Allocation
Vehicle Damage Assessment & Estimate
Parts Ordering & Initial Disassembly
Tue
Structural Repair & Welding
Panel Replacement & Alignment
Wed
Body Filling & Shaping
Sanding & Priming
Thu
Paint Mixing & Spray Booth Prep
Vehicle Painting & Clear Coat Application
Fri
Reassembly & Electrical System Checks
Detailing & Quality Control
Customer Handover / Administrative Tasks
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

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