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Auto Body Apprentice Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Auto Body Apprentice information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$13

$30

$52

How much do auto body apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body apprentice in Santa Rosa, CA is $30.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $34.95 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.

What is an auto body apprentice?

An auto body apprentice is someone learning the skills to repair and restore vehicle exteriors, often working under the supervision of experienced technicians. The role involves tasks such as sanding, painting, and replacing damaged panels, and may require knowledge of tools like spray guns and safety procedures. Apprentices typically receive on-the-job training and may pursue certifications in auto body repair.

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; employers often value skills, commitment, and a willingness to learn. Prior experience or related skills can also be beneficial in the apprenticeship process.

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. Skilled trades such as elevator installation or crane operation often provide the highest apprenticeship wages due to specialized skills and demand. Wages vary by region and industry, but generally, trades requiring more technical expertise tend to be higher paying during apprenticeships.

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 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 quickly and pursue additional certifications or training can increase their earning potential during their apprenticeship period.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Auto Body jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Auto Body Apprentice jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Auto Body Apprentice job openings:
Auto Glass Installation Technician Trainee

Auto Glass Installation Technician Trainee

Safelite Group

Santa Rosa, CA

$30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Safelite rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 243 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 335 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Does this position interest you? You should apply - even if you don't match every single requirement! We're known as an auto glass company. That's the focus of what we do. But beyond the glass, we're so much more. We'll help you build a fulfilling career and encourage you to have a life. Let us be the best place you'll ever work.

Does this position interest you? You should apply - even if you don't match every single requirement! We're known as an auto glass company. That's the focus of what we do. But beyond the glass, we're so much more. We'll help you build a fulfilling career and encourage you to have a life. Let us be the best place you'll ever work.


A Brief Overview


A Technician Trainee will be trained and educated to become a proficient auto glass technician. Upon completing our training program, the trainee will receive the Safelite SafeTech certification and will possess fundamental skills necessary for performing unsupervised glass repair, replacement and recalibrations. The trainee is expected to embody the Safelite Spirit with a can-do attitude, caring heart and service mindset while striving to bring unexpected happiness to customers by completing jobs timely and with the highest quality standards.

What you will do


Be paid to learn and apprentice the Safelite way, through hands-on and classroom training, including:
Observing and assisting in installing and repairing auto glass
Recalibrating automotive safety systems, including trouble-shooting and completing diagnostic testing
Providing additional services & products
Study and pass testing to become a Safelite-certified Technician showing proficiency in installations, embracing a positive attitude and following taught techniques.
Safely operate company and customer vehicles, company-issued tools and chemicals utilized throughout the workday.
Performs other duties as assigned
Complies with all policies and standards

What you'll get:


Competitive weekly pay starting at $25.50/hour, increasing to $30.25/hour after training and certification.
Earn $5/set of wiper blades when added for customer safety.
A benefits package valued at more than $10k*. Includes 401(k) plan with company matching, medical plans, paid time off, holidays & volunteer days.
Program to buy additional PTO or sell unused time up to 16 hours.
Up to $5,250 annually in tuition reimbursement.
Paid training and all the tools and resources you'll need to be successful.
View all our health, wealth, and life offerings at www.safelitebenefits.com.

Education Qualifications


High School Diploma GED/Equivalent Preferred

Valid state-issued driver's license any other license(s) (as required by federal, state and local laws) to operate a company vehicle. Required

Experience Qualifications


Must be 18 years of age or older Required

Skills and Abilities


Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 35 pounds and occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand for extended periods, work in tight spaces, bend and twist body
Ability to use a variety of hand tools and power tools safely and effectively
Ability to operate a motor vehicle in accordance with all federal, state and local laws and agreement to be monitored via in-cab vehicle safety camera / video surveillance technology
Maintains professionalism and passion for providing outstanding customer service and exceeding customer expectations
Ability to safely work outside (in a wide variety of weather conditions and extreme temperatures) for extended periods
Ability to work with chemicals (including but not limited to flammable chemicals), as applicable per the "Safelite Way of Fitting"
Ability to work scheduled days, with flexibility on start and end times to accommodate customer's needs
Proficiency in using computerized diagnostic tools to complete recalibrations and trouble-shoot issues
Problem-solving and ability to trouble-shoot issues, independently and collaboratively
Ability to read, write and interpret the English language and technical directions
Ability to communicate orally (via phone) and written (via computer or other electronic means)
Ability to maintain a professional appearance, adhering to Company dress code and PPE policies
Willingness and ability to maintain stable performance under professional or personal pressure and/or opposition (e.g., time pressure and productivity measures).

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by an employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to ensure workload coverage. This job description does NOT constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the organizational needs and requirements of the job change.

This position description is not all inclusive for every aspect of this role. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals covered by ADA, ADEA, FMLA and other laws and regulations in accordance with their requirements. Physical and mental demands are not, and should not be construed to be job qualification standards, but are illustrated to help the employer, employee and/or applicant identify tasks where reasonable accommodations may need to be made when an otherwise qualified person is unable to perform the job's essential duties because of an ADA disability.

Other qualifications may be required to ensure employment eligibility in accordance with local laws, regulations and with Safelite Group, Inc. policies and practices.

Base Pay Range Min - Max (in $USD):

$25.50 - $25.50

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Internal Associates: Already a member of the Safelite team? Apply through your Workday account by searching 'Find Open Jobs'.
Diversity: Safelite welcomes everyone. We value our diverse workforce and suppliers, and we're proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Learn more at Safelite.com/Careers.

Benefit amounts are estimates only. Actual values will depend on benefit elections during enrollment.

This position description is not all inclusive for every aspect of this role. Reasonable accommodation will be made for individuals covered by ADA, ADEA, FMLA and other laws and regulations in accordance with their requirements. Physical and mental demands are not and should not be construed to be job qualification standards, but are illustrated to help the employer, employee and/or applicant identify tasks where reasonable accommodations may need to be made when an otherwise qualified person is unable to perform the job's essential duties because of an ADA disability. Other qualifications may be required to ensure employment eligibility in accordance with local laws and regulations and with Safelite Group, Inc. policies and practices.

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