Automotive Body and Related Repairers: A Comprehensive Guide
Automotive Body and Related Repairers are professionals who are responsible for repairing and restoring damaged vehicles. They work on a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and motorcycles. This job requires individuals to have a certain level of skill in both mechanics and artistry, as they utilize their knowledge of auto mechanics along with their creative abilities to restore damaged vehicles to their original condition.
Examples of Jobs in Automotive Body and Related Repairers
The occupation of Automotive Body and Related Repairers can be broadly categorized into the following areas:
- Painters
- Auto Glass Repairers
- Collision Repairers
- Auto Body Refinishers
Painters are responsible for preparing and painting damaged vehicles. Auto Glass Repairers are specialists in repairing and replacing broken windshields, side windows, and rear windows. Collision Repairers are responsible for repairing damaged body panels, frames, and mechanical components. Auto Body Refinishers are responsible for restoring the damaged paintwork to its original factory finish.
What kind of education or training does one need to become an Automotive Body and Related Repairer?
Although there is no formal education required to become an Automotive Body and Related Repairer, obtaining at least a high school diploma or equivalent is necessary. Most employers, however, prefer individuals with formal training from an accredited automotive repair program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges or vocational schools and take anywhere between six months to two years to complete.
Upon completion of the program, individuals can obtain certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification. ASE certifications are recognized industry-wide as a standard for competency in the field and are essential for career advancement.
How does progression happen in Automotive Body and Related Repairers?
Career advancement in Automotive Body and Related Repairers is dependent upon various factors, including experience, job performance, and education. A new entrant in the field may start as an apprentice or helper and work their way up, based on the skills and experience they gain over time.
Skill mastery is another way to advance in this profession. An experienced individual who can specialize in a particular area, such as automotive painting or auto glass repair, has a better chance of being promoted to a higher position.
How can someone get into the field if they’re new?
If someone wants to enter the field of Automotive Body and Related Repairs, the following steps can be taken:
- Complete high school or equivalent education.
- Consider an automotive repair program at a community college or vocational school.
- Seek out entry-level positions as an apprentice or helper and gain practical experience.
- Obtain certification through ASE examinations to increase their chances of career advancement.
Career opportunities in Automotive Body and Related Repairers are anticipated to grow in the coming years due to the increasing number of vehicles on the road. Thus, it is a wise career choice for anyone who has a passion for cars and loves working with their hands.
| Occupation | Job Level | Salary (National Average) | Salary Range (National Average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Level 05 | $56,326.40 | $47,070.40 – $47,195.20 |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Level 06 | $63,814.40 | $61,464.00 – $61,464.00 |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Not able to be leveled | $50,377.60 | $49,628.80 – $49,857.60 |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Entry | $42,723.20 | N/A |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Experienced | $60,486.40 | N/A |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers (Union) | All levels | $80,454.40 | $66,788.80 – N/A |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers (Non-Union) | All levels | $51,064.00 | $48,651.20 – N/A |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers (Full-time) | All levels | $53,393.60 | $49,857.60 – $51,916.80 |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers (Time-based pay) | All levels | $48,672.00 | $43,409.60 – $36,961.60 |
Automotive body and related repairers at Level 05 have a national average salary of $56,326.40, while Level 06 has an average salary of $63,814.40. Those who cannot be leveled have a salary of $50,377.60, while the national entry level salary is $42,723.20. Experienced automotive body and related repairers have an average national salary of $60,486.40. Full-time positions pay an average salary of $53,393.60, while time-based pay positions have an average salary of $48,672.00.
Unionization has a significant effect on this occupation, with unionized positions having a higher salary range compared to non-unionized positions. Automotive body and related repairers in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA have the highest average salary range at $57,012.80, while those in Arkansas have the lowest average salary range at $41,912.00.
