Definition of a collision repairer.
A collision repair technician, also referred to as an automotive body and related repairer, restores damaged vehicles to pristine condition. The collision repair technician performs a variety of tasks, such as estimating the cost of repairing the damage to fix damage cars, trucks, or vans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the hourly median wage for a collision repairer was $17.81 in 2008.
Responsibilities
A collision repair technician is an expert in repairing damaged cars. Before the technician begins work on the automotive vehicle, a cost assessment must be done for the client. The collision repairer studies the damage and calculates the cost and prepares an estimate the client pays to fix the damage.
The technician performs various techniques to restore the car to a pristine condition. If the car has dents in the body, the technician uses a hammer to pound out the impressions. However, if the damage beyond simple repair, the collision repairer has to measure the area damaged area, order new parts and replace the parts. The collision repair technician adds a fresh coat of paint to the newly restored parts.
Education
An individual may obtain a collision repair job with only a high school diploma, according to the Lansing Community College, but more employers seek an applicant with formal education. There are a variety of collision repair programs a person can choose, which varies by time frame, such as six months to two years. These programs are usually offered at community colleges and vocational schools. A person attends courses like physics or electronics, and receives hands-on experience.
Training
New collision repair technician assist more experienced technicians before he works independently. He may pound out small dents or remove damaged auto body parts, according to BLS. It takes three to four years of hands-on training, according to BLS, to work to as a collision repair technician without supervision.
Required Skills
An individual interested in the collision repair field, needs strong attention to detail, the ability to comprehend vendors' catalogs and products and the ability to follow directions. This position requires good basic math and reading skills. According to Auto Career Today, a valid driver's license is also required.
Hours And Employers
A collision repairer works 40 hours a week except when there's a backlog of work which needs completion, according to BLS. Usually, a collision repairer works for auto body shops, custom car refinishing companies and car dealerships, according to Lansing Community College.
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