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Auto Body Welding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Courtesy Automotive Center

Auto Body Technician

Chico, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Auto Body Technician Department: Collision Center Reports to: Body Shop Manager Auto Body ... Bolt or weld replacement parts in position, using wrenches or welding equipment. * Straighten bent ...

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Auto Body Welding information

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$12

$27

$47

How much do auto body welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body welding in California is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is auto body welding?

Auto body welding is the process of joining metal panels and components on vehicles, typically to repair damage or replace parts. It involves various welding techniques, such as MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), or spot welding, to ensure strong, durable repairs. Auto body welders need to have a good understanding of vehicle structures, safety procedures, and the correct tools to use for different types of metals. This skill is essential in collision repair shops and automotive restoration work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto body welder?

To thrive as an Auto Body Welder, you need expertise in welding techniques, metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and a relevant certification or completion of a vocational training program. Familiarity with MIG, TIG, and spot welding equipment, as well as safety and diagnostic tools, is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for producing high-quality work and handling unique repair challenges. These skills ensure precise repairs, structural integrity, and customer satisfaction in automotive collision and restoration settings.

What are some common challenges faced by auto body welders and how can they be managed on the job?

Auto body welders often encounter challenges such as working with damaged or irregular metal surfaces, maintaining weld quality under tight deadlines, and ensuring personal safety in high-noise and high-heat environments. Effective communication with team members, such as painters and body technicians, is crucial to coordinate repairs and avoid rework. Staying updated on new welding techniques and safety practices, as well as using proper protective equipment, can help manage these challenges and contribute to a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Auto Body Welding vs Auto Body Repair Technician?

AspectAuto Body WeldingAuto Body Repair Technician
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)ASE certifications, collision repair certifications
Work EnvironmentWelding shops, auto body shops, manufacturing plantsAuto repair shops, collision centers, dealerships
Primary TasksWelding metal parts, frame repairs, structural fixesAssessing damage, panel replacement, painting, finishing

Auto Body Welding focuses on repairing vehicle structures through welding techniques, requiring welding certifications. Auto Body Repair Technicians handle a broader range of repairs, including panel replacement and painting. While both roles work in auto body shops, their skills and certifications differ, with welding emphasizing metal joining and repair technicians focusing on overall vehicle restoration.

What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Welding jobs in California?

For Auto Body Welding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Auto Body Welding jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Auto Body Welding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Auto Body Welding jobs?

Cities in California with the most Auto Body Welding job openings:

Auto Body Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Welding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,703 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Auto Body Technician

Courtesy Automotive Center

Chico, CA • On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 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

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