Purpose:
The Entry Level Body Shop Technician assists with shop repairs, surface preparation, disassembly, reassembly, and general shop support for commercial fleet vehicles, including medium- and heavy-duty diesel trucks, vans, trailers, and specialty equipment. This position is designed for an individual who is developing body repair skills and will work under the direction of experienced technicians and the Body Shop Manager to ensure repairs are completed safely, efficiently, and according to company standards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Includes, but is not limited to:
- Assists experienced technicians with body repairs on fleet vehicles including box trucks, service trucks, semi tractors, trailers, vans, buses, and specialty equipment
- Helps complete tear-downs, reassembly, and basic damage assessments as directed
- Prepares vehicles and components for repair by removing parts, cleaning surfaces, sanding, masking, and assisting with priming
- Performs basic dent repair, fiberglass preparation, and panel support tasks under supervision
- Assists with replacing damaged panels, doors, trim, hardware, and other body components as assigned
- Learns and follows proper repair procedures, shop standards, and safety practices
- Uses basic hand tools, power tools, sanding equipment, and shop equipment safely and appropriately
- Maintains a clean, safe, and organized work area
- Follows all safety protocols and OSHA requirements, including proper use of PPE
- Assists with moving vehicles, parts, and materials within the shop as needed
- Works closely with the Body Shop Manager, Service Advisor, and experienced technicians to support quality, accuracy, and customer satisfaction
- Documents repair activity and updates work orders using shop management or fleet maintenance systems as trained
- Participates in training and skill development to increase technical knowledge and repair ability
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Includes, but is not limited to:
- Prior body shop, automotive, diesel, fleet, mechanical, or trade school experience preferred but not required
- Willingness to learn commercial vehicle body repair methods, tools, materials, and safety practices
- Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and power tools safely
- Interest in developing skills in:
- Dent and fiberglass repair
- Panel removal and replacement
- Sanding, masking, priming, and surface preparation
- Ability to follow instructions and ask questions when clarification is needed
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-driven environment
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
- Dependable attendance and a positive, team-oriented attitude
- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and as part of a team
Education and/or Experience:
Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Prior automotive, body shop, diesel, fleet, mechanical, or vocational training experience preferred but not required. Entry-level candidates with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn will be considered.
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
- Customer and Personal Service – Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services.
- Active Learning – Willingness to learn new repair methods, tools, and procedures.
- Speaking – Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Dependability – Being reliable, responsible, dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- Attention to Detail – Being careful about detail and thorough in completing tasks.
- Cooperation – Being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a cooperative attitude.
- Time Management – Managing one’s own time efficiently.
- Following Instructions – Understanding directions and completing assigned tasks according to shop standards.
Certificates, Licenses and/or Registrations:
- Valid driver’s license preferred
- Forklift Training Certification preferred but offered
- Additional body shop, safety, or manufacturer training may be provided as needed
Benefits:
- Insurance benefits start on the first of the month following 60 days
- 401(k) with match after 1 year of employment
- Paid training and certifications
Work Environment:
- This position requires work in a variety of environments, which may include outdoor settings in all weather conditions, a service shop, or a parts warehouse.
- The shop environment may involve exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, and potentially hazardous chemicals, as well as regular proximity to moving mechanical parts, including medium- and heavy-duty diesel and gasoline engines.
Physical Demands:
This position regularly requires medium physical exertion and may occasionally require heavy physical exertion, including the ability to:
- Stand for extended periods and frequently walk, climb ladders, and maintain balance.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds and push or pull up to 100 pounds.
- Lift oneself onto raised surfaces, including entry into vehicles and equipment.
- Frequently stoop, kneel, crawl, and crouch, as required to perform assigned duties.
- Reach and grasp, including performing work with arms above shoulder level.
Other Duties:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
