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Auto Body Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Auto Body Technician Status: Full-Time | Non-Exempt AUTO BODY TECHNICIAN Be a part of a company ... apprentice, ASE, body shop, bodyshop, weld, welding, welder, frame tech

Auto Body Technician Employment Type: Full-Time Be a part of a company that knows your worth and ... apprentice, ASE, body shop, bodyshop, weld, welding, welder, frame tech

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

Flint, MI · On-site

$24 - $27/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

Flint, MI · On-site

$24 - $27/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

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$25 - $32/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

Canton, MI · On-site

$24 - $29/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

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$25 - $32/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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Auto Body Apprentice information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$24

$41

How much do auto body apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body apprentice in Michigan is $24.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Auto body apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, including those who are 27 or older. Age is generally not a barrier, and many apprentices start at different stages of life; the focus is on gaining skills, completing training, and demonstrating commitment to the trade.

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 is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Auto body apprenticeships typically offer lower wages compared to trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC apprenticeships, which tend to have higher pay rates due to the demand for skilled tradespeople. Generally, trades requiring specialized skills and certifications, such as electrical or plumbing, are among the highest paying apprenticeship trades.

What does an auto body apprentice do?

An auto body apprentice assists with repairing and restoring vehicle bodies, including tasks such as sanding, painting, and replacing damaged panels. They learn to use tools like spray guns and frame machines under supervision and often work alongside experienced technicians in a shop environment. The role provides hands-on training to develop skills necessary for a career in auto body repair.

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 apprenticeship gets paid the most?

In the auto body industry, apprenticeships that lead to specialized roles such as collision repair technicians or those with certifications in advanced techniques tend to offer higher pay. Generally, apprentices who gain experience with high-demand skills, tools, and certifications can earn more during their training period. Pay rates vary by region and employer, but advanced skills and certifications often result in higher wages for apprentices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Auto Body jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Auto Body Apprentice jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Auto Body Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Auto Body Apprentice job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,078 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Auto Body Technician

Sonny s Body Shop

Traverse City, MI

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Now Hiring: Auto Body Technician
Location: Sonny's Body Shop - 1824 Cass Hartman Ct., Traverse City, MI 49685
Status: Full-Time | Non-Exempt

AUTO BODY TECHNICIAN

Be a part of a company that knows your worth and acts with care by appreciating our employees and customers while celebrating your success.

PAID HOLIDAYS, FLOATING HOLIDAYS, PTO, TOP NOTCH HEALTH BENEFITS, 401K MATCH, AND PAID TRAINING ARE HERE FOR YOU!

The Auto Body Technician is responsible for repairing damaged vehicle body parts in accordance with company specifications, processes, and time standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Examines and evaluates damaged vehicles to plan for efficient repairs according to established standards.

· Communicates with management and team members regarding vehicle repair status through all phases.

· Notifies management of any difficulties or problems that may prevent a quality job from being performed or cause a change in the promised completion/delivery time.

· Maintains tools and equipment in good working order. Operates all tools and equipment in a safe manner. Ensures that work area is organized, clean and free of safety hazards.

· Maintains and wears all required safety and health personal protective equipment, including eye protection.

· Cooperates and assists other personnel in the repair and prepping of vehicles, often dependent upon schedule and area of expertise.

· Understands, keeps abreast of, and complies with federal, state and local regulations that affect body shop operations, such as hazardous waste disposal.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· Solid working knowledge of the processes, techniques and materials used in repairing automotive equipment with a minimum of 1-3 years of experience working in the collision repair arena.

· Possess extensive knowledge of vehicle structure to remove and replace damaged components.

· Strength to perform average lifting up to 35 pounds and occasionally over 70 pounds.

· Demonstrated agility, equilibrium and coordination as required when climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and balancing in all conditions.

· Comfortable working in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment with strong attention to detail.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION:

· Valid Driver’s License (Preferred)

· I CAR and ASC Certification (Preferred)

This position description is intended to be dynamic and subject to change. Position requirements and essential functions may be altered from time to time based upon the needs of the organization and department. This position may be required to execute special projects or other related duties on occasion.

Equal employment and affirmative action opportunities are provided to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

Keywords

Automotive, growth, advancement, collision repair, collision center, auto body, autobody, body shop, I-CAR, ICAR, dent repair, PDR, paintless, bodyman, body man, body tech, bodytech, auto body tech, auto tech, collision tech, collision technician, dealership, apprentice, ASE, body shop, bodyshop, weld, welding, welder, frame tech