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Auto Body Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OUR AUTO BODY APPRENTICES FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO: * $18-$22 per hour * BENEFITS OF JOINING CALIBER * Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision * Industry ...

Auto Body Apprentice

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

OUR AUTO BODY APPRENTICES FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO: * $18-$22 per hour * BENEFITS OF JOINING CALIBER * Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision * Industry ...

OUR AUTO BODY APPRENTICES FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO: * $18-$22 per hour * BENEFITS OF JOINING CALIBER * Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision * Industry ...

OUR AUTO BODY APPRENTICES FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO: * $18-$25 per hour BENEFITS OF JOINING CALIBER * Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision * Industry ...

New

Auto Body Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Yuba City, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Hemet, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

New

Auto Body Technician

Hemet, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

New

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Redding, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

New

Auto Body Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Oroville, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Yuba City, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

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Showing results 1-20

Auto Body Apprentice information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$47

How much do auto body apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body apprentice in California is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an auto body apprentice do?

As an auto body apprentice, your job is to learn more about how to repair an automotive vehicle after it has sustained a collision or similar damaging incident. During this apprenticeship, you work directly under a supervisor, gain skills as a mechanic, go through training programs, and get experience with the legal and business aspects of automotive repair. Auto body apprentices often study to earn certifications, help other employees, maintain a clean work environment, and proactively acquire knowledge of current products and technical techniques. This job may require lifting parts weighing up to 70 pounds, so physical fitness is essential for success.

What does an auto body apprentice do?

An Auto Body Apprentice assists experienced technicians in repairing and restoring vehicles that have been damaged in accidents or by wear and tear. Their responsibilities include tasks like sanding, priming, masking, and painting surfaces, as well as learning how to use specialized tools and equipment. Apprentices also help with replacing parts, aligning frames, and ensuring vehicles look and function as they should. This position offers hands-on training and experience under the supervision of skilled auto body professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto body apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Body Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of auto repair techniques, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like sanders, spray guns, dent pullers, and automotive painting systems is typically required, and enrolling in or completing an automotive repair training program is beneficial. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong teamwork skills help apprentices stand out in this hands-on, collaborative environment. These skills ensure quality repairs, workplace safety, and effective learning, all of which are crucial for advancing in the auto body repair field.

What are some common challenges faced by auto body apprentices in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Auto Body Apprentices often find their first year challenging due to the need to quickly develop hands-on skills while learning to use specialized tools and follow strict safety protocols. Adapting to the fast-paced shop environment and meeting quality standards can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, apprentices should actively seek feedback from experienced technicians, stay organized with their tasks, and take advantage of on-the-job training and mentorship opportunities. Building strong communication skills within the team will also help them integrate smoothly and learn more effectively.

What is the difference between Auto Body Apprentice vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAuto Body ApprenticeAuto Body Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsCertifications like I-CAR, ASE, and experience
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasksFull professional repair shop, independent work
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level, training phase in auto repair shopsExperienced repair professional in auto body shops

Auto Body Apprentices are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Auto Body Technicians are fully qualified professionals performing repairs independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a technician, who handles complex repairs and diagnostics.

Is an auto body apprenticeship worth it?

An auto body apprenticeship provides hands-on training and industry experience, which can improve job prospects and skill development in auto repair and collision work. Completing an apprenticeship often leads to certification and better earning potential, making it a valuable step for those pursuing a career as an auto body technician.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body jobs in California?

The most popular types of Auto Body jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Auto Body Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Auto Body Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Auto Body Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,703 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Caliber Collision rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 374 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Service Center

Carlsbad

JOB SUMMARY

Caliber Collision has an immediate job opening for an Auto Body Apprentice to perform all-purpose duties, which may include, but not limited to repairing damaged vehicles to pre-accident condition using industry-approved repair techniques and take responsibility for learning all training material and hands-on skills. The Body Apprentice will also follow the mentor's direction while learning to read estimates, identify damage, repair vehicles, and check work for quality and accuracy.

OUR AUTO BODY APPRENTICES FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO:

  • $18-$22 per hour
  • BENEFITS OF JOINING CALIBER
  • Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision
  • Industry Comparable Pay - Paid weekly
  • State of the Art Products - 3M Collision Repair Products
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays - Can begin accruing day 1
  • Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
  • Paid Skilled Trainings and Certifications - I-CAR and ASE
  • A career for life: You'll gain hands-on experience within a production shop

REQUIREMENTS

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid driver's license and be eligible for coverage under Caliber's insurance policy
  • Nice to have, but not required: Previous collision experience and/or Collision Vo-Tech certification


ABILITIES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE

  • Ability to do consistent physical activity - reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and squatting, and lifting objects over 50 lbs.
  • Be able to understand instructions - written and verbal
  • Can prioritize competing tasks and adapt easily to a fast-paced environment

Caliber is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, meet client expectations, standards, and accompanying requirements, and safeguard business operations and company reputation.

Caliber uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. with no restrictions.


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