Automotive Body and Related Repairers

The work

Core tasks

1. 01File, grind, sand, and smooth filled or repaired surfaces, using power tools and hand tools.
2. 02Inspect repaired vehicles for proper functioning, completion of work, dimensional accuracy, and overall appearance of paint job, and test-drive vehicles to ensure proper alignment and handling.
3. 03Fit and weld replacement parts into place, using wrenches and welding equipment, and grind down welds to smooth them, using power grinders and other tools.
4. 04Prime and paint repaired surfaces, using paint sprayguns and motorized sanders.
5. 05Follow supervisors' instructions as to which parts to restore or replace and how much time the job should take.
6. 06Sand body areas to be painted and cover bumpers, windows, and trim with masking tape or paper to protect them from the paint.
7. 07Chain or clamp frames and sections to alignment machines that use hydraulic pressure to align damaged components.
8. 08Position dolly blocks against surfaces of dented areas and beat opposite surfaces to remove dents, using hammers.
9. 09Cut and tape plastic separating film to outside repair areas to avoid damaging surrounding surfaces during repair procedure and remove tape and wash surfaces after repairs are complete.
10. 10Review damage reports, prepare or review repair cost estimates, and plan work to be performed.
11. 11Fill small dents that cannot be worked out with plastic or solder.
12. 12Remove damaged sections of vehicles using metal-cutting guns, air grinders and wrenches, and install replacement parts using wrenches or welding equipment.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading