ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Auto Body Shop Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pajouh Automotive Center

Auto Body Technician

Chico, CA

$80K - $130K/yr

Body Shop Manager Auto Body Technician should be able to restore damage vehicles to their original structural state, function and appearance, be able to produce clean body lines, and replace damaged ...

Courtesy Automotive Center

Auto Body Technician

Chico, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Body Shop Manager Auto Body Technician should be able to restore damage vehicles to their original structural state, function and appearance, be able to produce clean body lines, and replace damaged ...

Elite Sprinter Repair

Be Seen First

Body Shop Estimator / Manager

Upland, CA · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Manage and mentor technicians, providing guidance on best practices in auto restoration and ... Body Shop Management: 3 years (Required) * CCC Estimating Software: 4 years (Required)

New

Elite Sprinter Repair

Be Seen First

Body Shop Estimator / Manager

Upland, CA · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Manage and mentor technicians, providing guidance on best practices in auto restoration and ... Body Shop Management: 3 years (Required) * CCC Estimating Software: 4 years (Required)

New

CSN Collision

Auto Body Technician

San Diego, CA

California Collision Center, an independently owned and operated Auto Body Shop with locations in ... Communicate with shop management to report on job progress, vehicle status, and any issues that ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

California Collision Center, an independently owned and operated Auto Body Shop with locations in ... Communicate with shop management to report on job progress, vehicle status, and any issues that ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

California Collision Center, an independently owned and operated Auto Body Shop with locations in ... Communicate with shop management to report on job progress, vehicle status, and any issues that ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Estimator

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... body shop environment. * Strong knowledge of automotive repair processes, including damage ... Ability to multitask, manage several jobs at once * Attention to detail/Quick learner/Positive can ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Estimator

Sherman Oaks, CA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... body shop environment. * Strong knowledge of automotive repair processes, including damage ... Ability to multitask, manage several jobs at once * Attention to detail/Quick learner/Positive can ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAuto Body Shop JobsAuto Body Shop Manager JobsAuto Body Shop Manager Jobs in California

Auto Body Shop Manager information

See California salary details

$11

$27

$56

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

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body shop manager in California is $27.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an assistant body shop manager make?

An assistant body shop manager typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and shop size. They often assist the shop manager with daily operations, customer service, and staff supervision, and may require certifications in collision repair or management skills.

What does an Auto Body Shop Manager do?

An Auto Body Shop Manager oversees the daily operations of an auto body repair shop, ensuring that repair work is completed efficiently and to a high standard. They manage staff, coordinate repair schedules, handle customer service issues, and ensure that the shop complies with safety and environmental regulations. The manager is also responsible for budgeting, ordering parts and supplies, and maintaining relationships with insurance companies. Their leadership ensures the shop runs smoothly and customers receive quality service.

What are some common challenges Auto Body Shop Managers face in balancing customer expectations with repair timelines?

Auto Body Shop Managers often encounter the challenge of meeting tight repair deadlines while ensuring high-quality workmanship. Customers may have high expectations for quick turnarounds, especially if they rely on their vehicles for daily transportation. Managers must coordinate schedules, parts ordering, and technician workloads to avoid delays, all while communicating transparently with customers about progress and any unexpected issues. Successfully balancing these factors requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to handle pressure in a fast-paced environment.

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

AspectAuto Body Shop ManagerAuto Body Technician
Required CredentialsManagement experience, possibly certifications in shop operationsTechnical certifications, ASE or I-CAR training
Work EnvironmentOffice and shop supervision, administrative tasksHands-on repair work in the shop
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in auto repair shops, collision centersUsed in auto repair shops, collision centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in auto body shopsUnderstanding repair technician roles in auto body shops

The Auto Body Shop Manager oversees daily operations, staff management, and customer relations, requiring management skills and certifications. The Auto Body Technician focuses on repairing vehicles, requiring technical certifications and hands-on skills. Both roles are essential in auto repair shops, but they differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Auto Body Shop Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Body Shop Manager, you need a solid background in automotive repair, business management, and customer service, often supported by technical certifications or relevant management training. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE, shop management systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a productive team environment and ensure customer satisfaction. These skills are crucial for balancing workflow, maintaining quality standards, and driving the shop’s profitability and reputation.

How to become a body shop manager?

To become a body shop manager, candidates typically need several years of experience working in auto body repair, often starting as a technician or estimator. Developing strong leadership, customer service skills, and knowledge of repair processes is essential, along with obtaining relevant certifications such as I-CAR or ASE. Some employers may also require a high school diploma or equivalent, with a preference for those with post-secondary training in automotive technology or management.

What is the highest paying job in auto body?

The highest paying roles in auto body work typically include auto body shop owners and specialized technicians such as collision repair shop managers or estimators with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require advanced skills, management responsibilities, and a strong understanding of repair processes, leading to higher compensation. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the size of the shop.

What Does an Auto Body Shop Manager Do?

An auto body shop manager oversees auto body repair work. Auto body shop managers verify customer insurance policies to confirm which repairs are covered, document work done in the shop, and purchase equipment and supplies. They also train staff to perform quality repairs, ensuring they pay attention to details; each completed job should restore the vehicle to its original condition. Dents should be smoothed out; paint should be applied perfectly. The auto body shop manager may also inspect each vehicle to ensure that the repair meets shop standards and client expectations.

What is the highest paying manager position?

In the auto body shop industry, the highest paying manager position is typically the General Manager or Body Shop Director, overseeing multiple shops or large operations. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and location of the business.
More about Auto Body Shop Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Shop jobs in California? The most popular types of Auto Body Shop jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Shop Manager jobs in California? For Auto Body Shop Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Shop Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Shop Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Auto Body Shop Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Auto Body Shop Manager job openings:
Auto Body Shop Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Shop Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,174 per year, or $28 per hour.

Auto Body Technician

Pajouh Automotive Center

Chico, CA

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Auto Body Technician

Department: Collision Center

Reports to: Body Shop Manager

Auto Body Technician should be able to restore damage vehicles to their original structural state, function and appearance, be able to produce clean body lines, and replace damaged parts according to manufacturer’s specifications.

Qualifications:

  • I-Car Certifications preferred
  • Working knowledge of body shop equipment
  • At least 2 years of experience in collision repair
  • Must have own tools
  • Valid Driver’s License

Responsibilities:

  • Body Techs examine damaged vehicles and estimate repair costs.
  • Automotive Collision Technicians remove upholstery, accessories, electrical and hydraulic window-and-seat-operating equipment, and trim to gain access to vehicle body and fenders.
  • Body Techs / Collision Repair Techs position dolly block against surface of dented area and beat opposite surface to remove dents, using hammer.
  • Auto Body Techs fill depressions with body filler, using putty knife.
  • Body Techs remove damaged fenders, panels, and grills, using wrenches and cutting torch.
  • Bolt or weld replacement parts in position, using wrenches or welding equipment.
  • Straighten bent automobile frames, using a pneumatic frame straightening machine.
  • File, grind and sand repaired surfaces, using power tools and hand tools.
  • Refinish repaired surface, using paint spray gun and sander.
  • Aim headlights, align wheels, and bleed hydraulic brake system.
  • Paint surfaces after performing body repairs.
  • Repair or replace defective mechanical parts
  • All other duties as assigned

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

We offer the following benefits to our employees:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Voluntary/Accident Insurance
  • 401k
  • PTO/Vacation


Apply