Body Shop Helper Ready for More? We'll Train You to Be a Body Tech
Matthews Motor Company | Covington, PA
Job Type: Full-time, hourly (with a clear path to flat rate)
Pay: $18–$22/hr to start, based on experience — with structured raises as your skills grow
This job is for you if...
You've spent the last year or two in a body shop as a helper, prepper, parts handler, or detailer — and you're ready for more. You've been watching the techs work. You've been R&I'ing parts, sanding, masking, maybe helping with teardowns and buildups. You know you could do this job if somebody would actually take the time to teach you.
We will.
We're not looking for a finished A-tech with this posting. We're looking for the right person — someone with a foundation in the shop, a good attitude, and the drive to become a real collision technician. We'll provide the training, the mentorship, and the career path.
What makes this a real opportunity (not just a job)
Matthews Motor Company has served the Northern Tier for over 30 years, and we just built one of the best collision facilities in the region — a brand new 12,000 sq ft, fully climate-controlled shop with in-ground lifts, Pro Spot welders, Car-O-Liner frame equipment, and Symach paint and process equipment. We're an I-CAR Gold Class shop.
That matters for you because:
- You'll train on the newest equipment in the region — the same tools you'd find in a big-city certified collision center
- You'll learn from experienced techs who work the way the OEMs require, not shortcuts
- We pay for your I-CAR training and certifications — you'll build a real credential set that's worth money anywhere (but we plan to keep you)
- Air conditioning. If you've spent a summer sweating in a tin-roof shop, you know why this is on the list
Your career path here
We believe in showing you the ladder, not just the first rung:
- Apprentice Tech (start): $18–$22/hr hourly while you learn — R&I, disassembly/reassembly, prep work, assisting senior techs on repairs
- B-Tech (12–24 months): Handling your own light-hit repairs, bumpers, panel replacement — moving toward flat rate with a guaranteed floor
- Flat Rate Body Tech (2–4 years): Full repair capability — our experienced flat rate techs have the opportunity to earn $60,000–$80,000+ per year
- Beyond: OEM certifications, structural/frame specialization, aluminum, ADAS calibration — we'll invest in whatever direction you grow
What you'll do day to day
- Assist senior technicians with teardowns, repairs, and reassembly
- R&I parts, prep panels, and stage vehicles through the repair process
- Learn welding, panel replacement, dent repair, and structural basics under supervision
- Complete I-CAR coursework (on the clock — we pay for your training time)
- Keep your work area clean, safe, and organized
What we're looking for
- 1–2+ years working in a body shop in any role — helper, prepper, detailer, parts, porter
- A genuine interest in becoming a collision technician — you've been paying attention and you want in
- Reliable, coachable, and takes pride in doing things right
- Basic hand tools (we'll help you build your toolbox from there with financing assistance)
- Valid driver's license
Don't have every box checked? Apply anyway. Attitude and work ethic matter more to us than a perfect resume.
What we offer
- $18–$22/hr starting pay with structured raises tied to skill milestones
- Paid I-CAR training and certifications
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Tool and toolbox financing assistance
- Uniforms provided
- Monday–Friday schedule
- Employee vehicle purchase pricing
- A 30-year reputation, a positive team, and a shop you'll actually be proud to work in
Location
Covington, PA — easy commute from Mansfield, Wellsboro, Blossburg, Troy, Liberty, Tioga, and the Corning/Painted Post area.
Apply through Indeed — all inquiries confidential. If you're currently working at another shop, we get it. Your application stays between us.
Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
