BODY SHOP TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION

A Body Shop Technician is a skilled trade professional who restores collision-damaged vehicles to pre-incident condition. Repair orders govern every job, from initial teardown through structural straightening, welding, surface refinishing, and final paint application, all benchmarked against OEM specifications. I-CAR training standards and OSHA hazardous materials regulations frame the compliance environment this role operates within daily. No vehicle leaves the shop without this technician's sign-off on structural integrity and finish quality.

As the Body Shop Technician, you deliver collision repairs across metal and fiberglass panels, frames, and painted surfaces in accordance with dealership and OEM standards, ensuring every vehicle is returned to pre-incident condition within the promised timeframe. You coordinate daily with estimators and the Parts Department, working within a structured repair order system that keeps workflow accountable and customer commitments on track.

Career Impact: Hands-on mastery of OEM repair protocols and I-CAR certification requirements builds a credential set recognized across franchise dealership networks and independent collision centers alike.

Business Impact: When a vehicle is returned to its owner structurally sound and cosmetically correct, the dealership earns the insurer relationship and the repeat customer that follow - both depend directly on this technician's output.

Growth Opportunity: Technicians who demonstrate accuracy on heavy structural and welding repairs routinely advance to senior body shop roles, estimating positions, or shop lead appointments within dealership group hierarchies.

Company Value: Several employers in this space offer signing bonuses, paid factory training, and a stated commitment to internal promotion, making tenure here a measurable investment rather than a lateral stop.

• Review each repair order and estimator notes before beginning work to confirm scope, parts availability, and promised completion time.
• Disassemble vehicle panels, trim, upholstery, and electrical components to expose damaged structural and body areas.
• Perform welding, soldering, frame straightening, and body alignment operations to restore vehicles to OEM structural specifications.
• Apply body filler, primers, sealers, basecoats, and clear coats to repaired surfaces, matching factory color and finish standards.
• Inspect vehicles during and after repair to identify additional damage and notify the estimator or Body Shop Manager promptly.
• Coordinate with the Parts Department to verify correct parts are ordered, received, and matched against the repair order before installation.
• Maintain workspace, equipment, and personal protective equipment in compliance with OSHA and hazardous materials disposal regulations.
• Document completed work accurately in the repair order system as each job is finished.

• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent work experience in a skilled trade environment.
• 2 or more years of collision repair experience, with demonstrated ability to perform structural and non-structural repairs across metal and fiberglass.
• Valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle record satisfactory to employer insurance requirements.
• Ability to perform welding, soldering, and body alignment operations to OEM standards.
• Working knowledge of hazardous materials handling, OSHA Right-to-Know requirements, and safe PPE use in a body shop environment.
• Ability to lift 40 or more pounds, remain in stationary positions for extended periods, and bend, kneel, or stoop as the work requires.
• Willingness to complete required training classes and maintain active certifications as a condition of employment.

• I-CAR welding certification or active enrollment toward I-CAR Gold Class status within the dealership program.
• ASE certification in collision repair or refinishing, demonstrating validated competency recognized across the industry.
• Experience with frame machine operation and the ability to analyze and interpret structural measuring data.
• Familiarity with OEM repair documentation, technical service bulletins, and manufacturer-specific structural repair procedures.

• Repair order cycle time, measured in hours per repair against the estimator's initial projection.
• Comeback rate, tracking the percentage of completed repairs returned for rework within 30 days.
• Parts-to-labor accuracy, reflecting how consistently the technician's documented parts usage matches the approved repair order.
• OSHA and hazardous waste compliance audit score, covering PPE use, material disposal, and documentation completeness.
• Training completion rate, measured by required classes and active certifications maintained against employer benchmarks.
• Typical tools: Frame straightening equipment (commonly pneumatic frame machines), welding and soldering equipment, paint application systems (commonly spray guns and sanders).

• Base Salary Range: $42,000 to $72,000 per year, varying by certification level and dealership size.
• Bonus: Production-based incentive pay common, with flat-rate structures prevalent in dealership environments.
• Equity: Not typical for this role at the technician level.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard across dealership group employers.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days per year, with holiday schedules varying by dealership group.
• Common Perks: Signing bonuses at select employers, paid factory and I-CAR training, and tool allowances.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Background checks, including drug screening, are a standard condition of employment for this position. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States prior to their start date.

The Body Shop Technician owns the full repair cycle for damaged vehicles, performing tasks from removing upholstery and fenders to straightening frames, refinishing surfaces, and painting, all within factory and dealership specifications. Working alongside insurance representatives, customers, and shop colleagues, this role ensures vehicles are returned to safe, road-ready condition while upholding the dealership's standards for quality and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Remove upholstery, accessories, electrical and hydraulic window and seat operating equipment and trim to gain access to vehicle body and fenders.
• Position dolly block against surface of dented area and beat opposite surface to remove dents, using hammer.
• Fill depressions with body filler, using putty knife.
• Remove damaged fenders, panels and grills using wrenches and cutting torch.
• Bolt or weld replacement parts in position using wrenches or welding equipment.
• Straighten bent automobile frames using a pneumatic frame-straightening machine.
• File, grind and sand repaired surfaces using power tools and hand tools.
• Refinish repaired surface using paint spray gun and sander.
• Aim headlights, align wheels, and bleed hydraulic brake system.
• Paint surfaces after performing body repairs.
• Repair or replace defective mechanical parts.
• Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Write routine reports and correspondence.
• Speak effectively in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, insurance representatives, and other employees.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Current, valid driver's license with satisfactory Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).
• One year of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions in written or oral form.
• Complete 17 required classes and retain quality certifications to qualify.
• Desire to learn and advance to full body technician status.

Embedded within a dealership body shop committed to equal opportunity, the Body Shop Technician performs collision repairs, welding, soldering, and body alignment operations in compliance with OEM and company standards. Working closely with estimators and parts staff, this role keeps repair workflows efficient and accurate while maintaining a clean, safe workspace that supports customer satisfaction.

Core Functions

• Stay up to date on the latest repair methods and techniques for vehicles sold and serviced by the dealership.
• Disassemble, repair, and reassemble each vehicle to OEM and company standards.
• Perform all collision repairs in accordance with OEM and company standards.
• Perform work as outlined on repair order with efficiency and accuracy.
• Perform welding, soldering, and body alignment operations.
• Examine vehicle to determine if additional safety or service work is required.
• Notify estimator in a timely manner if additional damage is found or if additional parts are needed.
• Attend I-CAR training classes and keep abreast of OEM repair guidelines.
• Operate all equipment in the body shop in a safe and productive manner.
• Maintain workspace in an orderly and clean manner.

Qualifications and Experience

• Collision repair experience required.
• Ability to complete light to heavy repairs and structural work.
• Strong product knowledge in vehicle repair.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs comfortably and bend, squat, kneel, or stoop as needed.
• Ability to remain in stationary positions for extended periods of 6 or more hours.
• Willing to submit to a pre-hire background check.
• Ability to work in a high-performance, fast-paced team environment with a guest-focused mindset.

Reporting to the Body Shop Manager, the Body Shop Technician diagnoses malfunctions and performs needed repairs across a 100+ location Sonic Automotive dealership network, ensuring vehicles are returned clean and fully serviced. Partnering with the Parts Department and following factory technical bulletins, this role enables consistently high service quality and supports the dealership's commitment to employee development and customer care.

Primary Duties

• Diagnose the cause of malfunction and perform needed repairs.
• Communicate with the Parts Department to obtain needed parts.
• Examine the vehicle to determine if additional safety or service work is required.
• Advise the Body Shop Manager if additional work is needed.
• Document all work performed as soon as each job is completed.
• Use basic mathematical skills to solve simple equations for mixing chemicals.
• Attend factory-sponsored training classes and keep abreast of factory technical bulletins.
• Understand and follow federal, state, and local regulations such as the disposal of hazardous wastes.
• Ensure that customer cars are kept clean.

Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with ability to pass background check, MVR, drug test, and credit report.
• At least two years of automotive experience.
• ASE certification preferred.
• Authorized to work in the USA.
• Ability to perform all duties and responsibilities in a safe manner.

Sitting at the intersection of vehicle repair and surface refinishing, the Body Shop Technician repairs, replaces, and upgrades exterior parts while preparing vehicles for paint through sanding and refinishing in coordination with the paint department. Operating across a collaborative vehicle care team, this role delivers complete, customer-ready results by combining hands-on repair skill with diagnostic accuracy and workplace professionalism.

Duties

• Repair, replace, and upgrade a variety of vehicle parts.
• Perform diagnostic tests to ensure all issues have been detected and resolved before returning the car to the customer.
• Perform cost estimations before beginning jobs.
• Prepare cars to be painted by sanding and refinishing them.
• Follow all workplace safety requirements.

Experience and Qualifications

• Previous experience as an auto body technician strongly preferred.
• Basic technological and mathematical proficiency.
• Ability to utilize a wide variety of car maintenance and repair tools.
• Willingness to work during the evening and on weekends.
• Ability to work well with others and demonstrate professionalism in the workplace.

A key member of the body shop team, the Body Shop Technician delivers full-cycle painting services including formulating, preparing, and applying primers, sealers, basecoats, color coats, and clear coats for vehicle accessories and individual parts. Collaborating across the department to maintain adequate paint stock and a safe workspace, this role directly supports quality refinishing outcomes and timely completion of all painting assignments.

Functions

• Prepare all items for painting and manage accountable body painting preparation.
• Formulate, prepare, and apply all primers, sealers, basecoats, color coats, and clear coats.
• Complete all refinishing promptly using proper paint methods.
• Provide adequate paint stock for the department.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Perform quality control on all refinishing work.

Position Requirements

• Valid driver's license required.
• Training in automotive painting with ability to color match and mix paint.
• Detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to follow directions, meet deadlines, and maintain a positive attitude.

Superior customer outcomes and better-than-new vehicle quality depend on the Body Shop Technician, who reviews repair orders, performs teardowns, welding, painting, and structural repairs across fiberglass and metal parts in line with OEM specifications. Based within a dealership shop environment, this role advances technician expertise through ongoing OEM and vendor training while coordinating with Parts to minimize downtime and ensuring full compliance with company and OSHA standards.

Accountabilities

• Review each repair order and estimator's notes to understand repairs needed prior to beginning work.
• Produce high-quality repairs in accordance with the repair order, OEM policies, and documentation provided.
• Perform vehicle teardown, repairs of all types, welding, and painting as instructed.
• Identify parts necessary for repair completion and work with the Parts department to reduce downtime.
• Ensure company and OEM policies and processes are followed, including thorough documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace according to company and Elite Support guidelines.
• Attend OEM and vendor-sponsored training to remain current on factory technical bulletins, product updates, and certifications.
• Complete additional tasks and projects in an organized and timely manner.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; trade school or ASE certificate is a plus.
• Valid driver's license with ability to meet insurance requirements, Class A CDL with air brake endorsement highly preferred.
• 2 or more years of collision repair, fabrication, painting, and welding required for both fiberglass and metal parts, heavy-duty repair experience highly preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of heavy-duty operating systems and OEM technical repair processes.
• Ability to understand and comply with company, industry, and OSHA guidelines and policies.
• Ability to lift 110 lbs unassisted and carry, push, or pull 70 lbs unassisted.
• Organized, resourceful collaborator with superior time management skills and basic computer knowledge.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, physical, and drug screen.

As the Body Shop Technician, this role repairs vehicles per estimate and manufacturer standards, covering tasks from parts verification and vehicle preparation through hazardous materials compliance and safety equipment use. The shop team relies on this work to maintain consistent productivity, meet promised completion times, and ensure all repairs and documentation satisfy federal, state, and local body shop regulations.

Key Deliverables

• Repair vehicles per estimate and according to manufacturer standards.
• Check parts against estimate and ensure proper parts were ordered and received.
• Prepare vehicles for body repair work.
• Notify management of any difficulties or problems that may prevent a quality job or cause a change in the promised time.
• Maintain and wear all required safety and health personal equipment, including a respirator, as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Comply with all laws and regulations pertaining to paint, thinners, and other hazardous materials, reporting any deviations to management.
• Cooperate and assist other personnel in the repair and prepping of vehicles.
• Comply with federal, state, and local regulations affecting body shop operations such as hazardous waste disposal and OSHA Right-to-Know.

Background and Experience

• At least 18 years of age with a valid driver's license and favorable motor vehicle record.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• 2 or more years of experience and strong knowledge in automotive repair and restoration.
• Focused on quality workmanship with a keen ability to identify problems quickly.
• Reliable with a proven work ethic and ability to set and achieve targeted goals.
• Consistently meet or exceed productivity and service standards while communicating well with service team members.

Senior Body Shop Technician delivers disassembly, reassembly, and structural repair of mechanical and electrical vehicle components in line with Thatcham repair times, while maintaining full compliance with depot health and safety rules and PPE requirements. Success in the position means producing consistent quality output, keeping a clean and secure workspace, completing all paperwork accurately and on time, and engaging in ongoing in-house and external training to grow technical capability.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Carry out disassembly and reassembly of mechanical and electrical components prior to and after body repairs.
• Produce good productivity levels in line with Thatcham repair times.
• Comply with depot-specific health and safety rules and wear correct PPE throughout, reporting any failings through the reporting procedure.
• Ensure all paperwork is completed correctly, legibly, and handed in on time.
• Conduct professionally both at depots and while driving, treating members of the public with courtesy.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work area and ensure all tooling and specialist equipment is checked, tested, and compliant with company policy.
• Maintain sufficient security measures to prevent theft of company and personal property during and after normal working hours.

Professional Experience

• Recognised qualifications demonstrating a time-served apprenticeship in vehicle body repair.
• Two or more years of post-apprenticeship experience.
• Valid UK driving licence.
• Ability to work well under pressure and as part of a team or under own initiative.
• Well organised with excellent time management skills.
• Desire for self-improvement and enthusiasm to learn new skills, including attending in-house and external training courses.

The Body Shop Technician shapes full vehicle restorations by removing damaged panels, aligning or replacing parts to manufacturers' specifications, and working across metals, plastics, glass, electrical, and mechanical components to return vehicles to their original structural state and appearance. Working alongside shop colleagues and reporting to shop management, this role supports efficient day-to-day operations and a positive customer service experience through technical versatility and a willingness to learn new repair technology.

Role Responsibilities

• Restore damaged vehicles to their original structural state, function, and appearance.
• Remove upholstery, accessories, electrical and hydraulic window and seat operating equipment, and trim to gain access to vehicle body and fenders.
• Work with various metals, plastics, glass, electrical, and mechanical parts.
• Remove damaged panels and any damaged vehicle parts.
• Align or replace damaged parts according to manufacturers' specifications.
• Complete additional job duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license required.
• C-level experience in body shop work.
• Working knowledge of shop equipment and electronic diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to learn new technology, repair and service procedures, and specifications.
• Positive, friendly attitude with a customer service mentality and enjoyment of a fast-paced environment.

Body Shop Technician leads hands-on repair tasks including filling depressions with body filler, bolting or welding replacement parts, straightening bent frames, and completing surface work from grinding through priming to ensure vehicles meet manufacturer repair standards. The work directly supports shop productivity and customer safety by combining certified welding and frame machine capability with a thorough knowledge of vehicle repair processes by manufacturer.

Areas of Ownership

• Fill depressions with body filler.
• Remove damaged fenders and panels.
• Bolt or weld replacement parts in position.
• Straighten bent automobile frames.
• File, grind, sand, and prime repaired surfaces.
• Aim headlights, align wheels, and bleed the hydraulic brake system.
• Repair or replace defective mechanical parts.

Technical Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience as a Body Shop Technician required.
• I-CAR welding certification preferred, body repair certification preferred, aluminum repair certifications a plus.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to use frame machine and analyze and interpret measuring data.
• Knowledge of vehicle repair process by manufacturer.
• Willingness to submit to a pre-employment background check and drug screen.