Whether they’re applying a shiny finish
to add sparkle to an old car,
or fixing structural damage
from a collision,
automotive body and related repairers
bring damaged vehicles back
to nearly-new condition.
Auto body repairers restore
the structural integrity of car bodies
and frames.
They use pneumatic tools
and plasma cutters to remove damaged parts,
and heavy-duty hydraulics
for major structural repairs.
For some work,
they use common hand tools,
such as metal files, wrenches,
and screwdrivers.
Most work in automotive repair
and maintenance shops,
though many also work
at car dealerships.
Some are self-employed.
The work can be physically demanding—
working in cramped positions,
often in noisy body shops,
these workers commonly suffer
cuts and burns,
so it’s important they follow safety procedures
to avoid serious accidents.
Most automotive body repairers
work full time.
When shops have a backlog
of work to complete,
overtime hours are common,
including evenings and weekends.
Though formal training in auto body repair
is preferred,
many candidates are hired without it,
and learn on the job.
Certification from the National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence
is a standard credential
that often brings higher pay
and better job opportunities.