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- Repair the bodywork of cars and other vehicles after bumps and accidents
- Practical work, using a range of specialist tools and requiring excellent attention to detail
- Progress into supervisory or bodyshop management roles or run your own business
As a vehicle body repairer, paint technician, or 'panel beater' you'll specialise in repairing damaged bodywork or panels on cars and other vehicles.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Assessing damage and deciding how to repair it
- Removing damaged panels or parts for repair
- Smoothing out minor dents in panels
- Filling small holes or rusted areas with filler
- Making body panels and sections and welding them into place
- Refinishing the repair to match surrounding areas
- Keeping a record of all work completed to show customers
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You'll usually work between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some companies operate a shift system, which could include evenings and Saturday mornings. You'll spend most of your time in a workshop, which might include a paint-spraying booth. You'd wear a protective mask, overalls, goggles and gloves for some tasks.
You'll need
You'll need the ability to use a range of tools, the ability to work methodically, paying attention to detail, and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions. You can apply for jobs in body repair if you've got experience and a qualification in motor mechanics or vehicle paint spraying.
Apprenticeships are also good way to get into this role. You can complete an intermediate and advanced apprenticeship in vehicle body and paint or an accident and repair, vehicle damage panel technician, or vehicle damage paint technician advanced apprenticeship.
To get started you could do a Level 2 Certificate in Vehicle Body and Paint Operations. You could also get into body repair work after training in vehicle mechanics.
CAREER PROSPECTS
With experience, you could become a lead fitter or technician, or move into supervisory and bodyshop management positions in larger firms. You could also set up your own business and move into mobile repair.