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Auto Body Shop Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Autobody Buffer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Shop Collaboration: Coordinate closely with auto body painters and collision technicians to streamline shop workflow and meet deadlines. Key Skills & Requirements * Education & Experience: High ...

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Autobody Buffer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Shop Collaboration: Coordinate closely with auto body painters and collision technicians to streamline shop workflow and meet deadlines. Key Skills & Requirements * Education & Experience: High ...

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This is a great opportunity to join a family-owned body shop in Elmhurst that has been serving the ... Auto Body Techs fill depressions with body filler. * Body Techs remove damaged fenders, panels, and ...

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This is a great opportunity to join a family-owned body shop in Elmhurst that has been serving the ... Auto Body Techs fill depressions with body filler. * Body Techs remove damaged fenders, panels, and ...

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Autobody Paint Prepper

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Safely operate and maintain shop tools, including orbital sanders, buffers, spray guns, and paint ... Prior auto body repair or surface prep experience preferred; entry-level candidates with strong ...

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Autobody Paint Prepper

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Safely operate and maintain shop tools, including orbital sanders, buffers, spray guns, and paint ... Prior auto body repair or surface prep experience preferred; entry-level candidates with strong ...

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Auto Body Shop Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$29

$58

How much do auto body shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body shop apprentice in Chicago, IL is $29.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $37.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an auto body shop apprentice do?

An Auto Body Shop Apprentice assists experienced technicians with repairing, restoring, and refinishing vehicle bodies after damage. Their tasks often include sanding, masking, priming, dent removal, and preparing surfaces for painting. They also learn how to use specialized tools and equipment, follow safety procedures, and may help with estimating repair costs. The apprenticeship provides hands-on training and experience necessary to become a certified auto body technician.

What are some typical challenges an auto body shop apprentice may face during their training period?

As an Auto Body Shop Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as mastering various repair techniques, adapting to fast-paced work environments, and learning to use specialized tools and equipment safely. Balancing hands-on tasks with acquiring technical knowledge, such as understanding vehicle schematics and following detailed repair procedures, can also be demanding. However, these challenges are common and provide valuable experience that prepares you for greater responsibility and advancement in the field.

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

To thrive as an Auto Body Shop Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of automotive repair basics, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as exposure to industry-specific equipment like spray booths and frame machines, is beneficial, and some employers value completion of entry-level auto body repair courses. Strong work ethic, effective communication, and a willingness to learn from experienced technicians are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for ensuring quality repairs, maintaining safety standards, and advancing skill development in a hands-on, collaborative environment.

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

AspectAuto Body Shop ApprenticeAuto Body Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsCertifications often required, such as I-CAR or ASE
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, learning-focused, supervisedSkilled, independent work repairing vehicles
Job RoleAssists with repairs, learns techniquesPerforms repairs, refinishing, and detailing

The Auto Body Shop Apprentice is an entry-level role focused on learning and assisting, while the Auto Body Technician is a skilled professional responsible for repairing and restoring vehicles. Apprentices typically work under supervision and gain experience, whereas technicians have the certifications and expertise to perform repairs independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Shop jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Auto Body Shop jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Auto Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Auto Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Auto Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Auto Body Shop Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,722 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Autobody Buffer

International Body Shop

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking an Autobody Buffer to join our team. In this role, you will polish and finish vehicle exterior surfaces to remove paint imperfections, correct flaws, and deliver a high-gloss, showroom-ready finish.

Core Responsibilities

  • Paint Correction: Operate rotary and dual-action buffers to eliminate sanding marks, swirl marks, oxidation, runs, and light scratches.
  • Surface Preparation: Wash, dry, clay bar, or sand painted panels before compounding to guarantee a spotless work surface.
  • Compound Application: Mix and apply appropriate cutting compounds, polishes, waxes, and protective ceramic or sealant coatings.
  • Quality Inspection: Inspect finished body panels under specialized lighting to guarantee a smooth, uniform, and flawless reflection.
  • Shop Collaboration: Coordinate closely with auto body painters and collision technicians to streamline shop workflow and meet deadlines.

Key Skills & Requirements

  • Education & Experience: High school diploma or GED equivalent; prior experience in auto body repair or professional detailing required.
  • Equipment Knowledge: Demonstrated proficiency with electric and pneumatic buffers, backing plates, and foam or wool pads.
  • Paint Expertise: Solid understanding of clear coats, paint hardness, and precise techniques to avoid paint burn-through on panel edges.
  • Physical Demands: Strong physical stamina, including the ability to stand for long shifts, bend, reach, and operate vibrating power tools continuously.

Company Description

International Body Shop is a family-owned and operated full-service collision repair shop with over five decades of experience. We promise to provide outstanding customer service as well as the finest quality repair and body shop work in Elmhurst, IL, and the surrounding area.

Our goal has always been to provide the best service and we have been in business for over 40 years because we have been able to deliver on that promise.