Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive body and related repairers fix and refinish vehicle bodies damaged in accidents or from wear. They also straighten frames and perform metal work to restore vehicles to safe, functional condition. Most work at repair shops, dealerships, or body shops that specialize in collision and structural repairs.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive body and related repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves assessing vehicle damage, removing damaged panels and components, using specialized equipment to straighten frames and body sections, and welding or bonding parts back together. Repairers also sand, prime, and paint surfaces to match original finishes. Work requires reading damage estimates, consulting repair manuals, and coordinating with other shop staff to meet customer timelines.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be practical and detail-oriented, preferring hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You work methodically through structured tasks, follow established standards, and take satisfaction in restoring damaged vehicles to their original condition through skilled technical work.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $48,140 | $72,490 | $74,530 | 800 |
| California | $52,040 | $66,860 | $78,200 | 14,050 |
| District of Columbia | $46,480 | $62,640 | $80,080 | 30 |
| New Jersey | $52,450 | $62,400 | $77,940 | 3,720 |
| Alaska | $57,080 | $61,680 | $75,200 | 270 |
| Minnesota | $49,540 | $60,970 | $74,520 | 2,910 |
| Hawaii | $47,400 | $60,540 | $71,730 | 450 |
| Missouri | $46,770 | $60,540 | $77,630 | 4,350 |
| Nevada | $48,880 | $60,520 | $95,480 | 1,020 |
| Oregon | $48,570 | $60,000 | $73,200 | 1,660 |
| Colorado | $46,670 | $59,880 | $76,450 | 3,120 |
| Massachusetts | $46,560 | $59,300 | $70,720 | 3,060 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Collision Repair for Career-Technical Education — Safety and Pollution Prevention
- School Bus Certification - S1 Body Systems & Special Equipment (S1) — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
- Truck Equipment Certification - E2 Electrical/Electronic Systems Installation & Repair — National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive body and related repairers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-3021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.