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What Does an Auto Body Technician Do?
Auto body technicians can’t wipe away the memory of a fender bender, but they can make your car look better. They are responsible for repairing the vehicle body. They work in auto body repair shops at dealerships, independent repair centers or fleet workshops and carry out a range of repairs, from hammering out minor dents to windshield replacement and complete rebuilds. When not repairing collision damage, technicians work on body customization or minor repairs, such as buffing out scratches or refurbishing corrosion damage. Auto body technicians often work directly with customers, reviewing damage reports and preparing cost estimates.
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- Consult with customers
- Prepare damage reports and cost estimates and plan work
- Replace damaged body parts, including bumpers, fenders, hoods and trim
- Realign car frames and repair structural damage
- Pound out or patch dents and other minor body damage
- Fit, attach and weld replacement parts into place
Education requirements vary by employer, but you will need at least a high school diploma or equivalent to become an entry-level auto body technician. However, many auto body technician jobs require a technical school certificate, and some require an associate degree in automotive technology.
Trade and technical school programs combine classroom time on the basics of auto body repair with an internship that provides hands-on training. Industry certification is increasingly important. Certifications are available for various auto repair specialties through the Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and may open the door for new job opportunities.
- Have dexterity in your hands and arms to work with small parts and small spaces
- Enjoy interacting with customers
- Have good attention to detail
- Are physically fit
- Enjoy working with a wide range of tools and equipment
