If you are wondering how much do auto body technicians make, then you must read this article as it shares some insights on the auto body technician salary.
There are people who are passionate about repairing the car more than the car itself. Did you also liked to dismantle the parts of your toy car just to see how it works or how the engine looks like and then assemble the car once again? Well, then probably, working as an auto body technician is an ideal career option for you. Auto body technician is commonly known as a mechanic who helps people in repairing their vehicles, be it, bus, cars, or trucks.
As the automotive technology is becoming sophisticated the need for trained auto body technicians is increasing the market. Not only private automotive repair companies, but also car manufacturing companies require professional and knowledgeable mechanics. With increasing demand and advancement in the technology the job profile and work environment of auto body technicians is improving. Hence, more and more people who are passionate about automotive are opting for this career.
Job Description of Auto Body Technician
A professional auto body technician could be self employed or can be employed by other facilities and their duties and responsibilities may differ accordingly but there are certain core tasks that are common to all auto body technicians.
The first and foremost thing that a mechanic has to do is have a dialog with the customer whose car needs to be repaired. He then has to analyze the coursework of the repairing. He also has to provide the customer with estimated cost of repairing the car. Once the customer agrees, he then has to start towards improving the car and make it as it was before an accident. Repairing the automotive includes various tasks, from removing dents to replacing crumpled parts and from straightening bent bodies to installing new spare parts, etc. In case of vehicles with severe damage, an auto body technician has to realign the complete frame of the vehicle making it look like new once again.
The job conditions of automotive technicians are generally very noisy due to the obvious reasons. So, only people who can bear the clatter of hammers and the whine of the tools are suitable for this job. However, after significant experience, one can be appointed as a senior auto body technician where he has to just supervise the tasks performed by the other technicians in a given setting.
Auto Body Technician Salary
To earn more salary an auto body technician needs a lot of experience and expertise in the field. Generally, a high school diploma is enough to become an automotive technician but a more relevant or specific education regarding automotive is necessary to start a career with a higher salary. According to industry experts, practical hands-on training of repairing cars along with relevant theory knowledge can increase one’s chances of earning more salary. Some also believe that working in the automotive workshop is only the right way to master the art of vehicle repairing. Apart from this, one must have the capability and quest to understand the science behind every machine.
Continuing education and training is an integral part of every auto body technician and hence, one who keeps learning and keeps himself updated with the latest changes in the automotive industry earns more money. One can also join different vocational training courses where they can brush up their basic and advanced skills needed for automotive technology. The more the education and experience, the more the automotive technician salary.
The average salary of a professional auto body technician could be around $40000 per year. Most employees pay their staff on per hour basis. In such case, automotive technician can earn around $15 to $20 per hour.
One can also think of acquiring a certificate from the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence to add the credentials to their experience and qualification. After few years, one can also start working independently and start a private automotive repair business as well. Well, so the future is bright if you are dedicated and ready to work hard.