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Auto Body Apprentice Jobs in Independence, OR (NOW HIRING)

Puget Collision

Body Technician

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Auto Body Collision Repair: Body Technician The Body Technician is a skilled craftsman with a ... Provide guidance, education, and assistance to the assigned apprentice in such a manner that ...

Puget Collision

Body Technician

Salem, OR · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Auto Body Collision Repair: Body Technician The Body Technician is a skilled craftsman with a ... Provide guidance, education, and assistance to the assigned apprentice in such a manner that ...

All JobsAuto Body Apprentice JobsAuto Body Apprentice Jobs in Independence, OR

Auto Body Apprentice information

See Independence, OR salary details

$12

$26

$46

How much do auto body apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body apprentice in Independence, OR is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $30.96 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.
More about Auto Body Apprentice jobs
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Independence, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Independence, OR are:
What cities near Independence, OR are hiring for Auto Body Apprentice jobs? Cities near Independence, OR with the most Auto Body Apprentice job openings:
Auto Body Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Apprentice job openings in Independence, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,636 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Body Technician

Puget Collision

Mcminnville, OR • On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description


Auto Body Collision Repair: Body Technician

The Body Technician is a skilled craftsman with a thorough understanding of how to restore automobiles with light to heavy damage through collision repair. Key responsibilities include assessing exterior damage, repairing manufacturer guidelines, ensuring necessary parts, reshaping panels with minor damage, welding and refinishing techniques as needed.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Ensure repairs adhere to OE standards, DRP part choices, and ADAS requirements for calibrations and scanning, verifying a quality and safe repair.
  • Complete disassembly of vehicles
  • Refit new parts such as bumpers, fenders, grills, moldings, and other bolt-on and welded items.
  • Complete all repairs in a manner in which the repaired areas are restored to the original manufacturer’s specifications, including door, hood and deck alignments, chassis, and frame measurements, and welded on unibody parts.
  • Check all parts for accuracy before starting the repair and notify the Estimator of any incorrect parts or other discrepancies.
  • Work efficiently to meet the target delivery date assigned to an RO.
  • Assume responsibility for all parts assigned to your job(s)
  • Protect the interior and exterior non-repair areas of all vehicles in repair from additional damage, including dust, dirt, scratches, primer, overspray.
  • Read and understand every line item of each vehicle’s RO as pertaining to your responsibilities and visually inspect every vehicle to ensure that all the repairs are complete.
  • Provide guidance, education, and assistance to the assigned apprentice in such a manner that furthers their developmental growth.

Key Performance Metrics

  • Customer Service Index Score 95+ for Quality, Done on Time, and Net Promoter Score
  • Cycle Time Efficiency

Skills/Qualifications:

  • I-CAR Gold Class and ASE certification is a plus.
  • Complete understanding of all facets of light to heavy automobile collision repair.
  • Knowledgeable in safety guidelines for repair.
  • Skilled welder with the ability to remove and refit welded panels as well as the bolt-on items required in a typical crash repair.
  • The ability to read, understand, and perform written instructions accurately and consistently and to work independently as well as with others in an organized manner.

Behavioral Excellence Required:

  • Perform all assigned responsibilities according to the Company Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area always, adhering to 5S organization.
  • Participate in training programs as required to maintain the technical and professional skills and techniques necessary for this position.
  • Extend normal working hours as necessary to accommodate workload and customer requirements.