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Auto Collision Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CSN Collision

Auto Body Painter

Paramount, CA · On-site

From collision repairs and complete refinishing to custom paintwork, vehicle restorations, wraps ... We're looking for an experienced Auto Body Painter who shares our commitment to quality and ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Painter

Paramount, CA · On-site

From collision repairs and complete refinishing to custom paintwork, vehicle restorations, wraps ... We're looking for an experienced Auto Body Painter who shares our commitment to quality and ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Painter

Paramount, CA

From collision repairs and complete refinishing to custom paintwork, vehicle restorations, wraps ... We're looking for an experienced Auto Body Painter who shares our commitment to quality and ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Oceanside, CA

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

El Cajon, CA

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Fresno, CA

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Fresno, CA

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Merced, CA · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Tulare, CA

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

Caliber Collision

Collision Estimator

Tulare, CA · On-site

$50K - $110K/yr

Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile ... collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAuto Collision JobsAuto Collision Jobs in California

Auto Collision information

See California salary details

$11

$27

$56

How much do auto collision jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto collision 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.

Is auto collision repair a good career?

Auto collision repair is a skilled trade that offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with technical skills and certifications such as ASE or I-CAR. The job involves repairing and restoring vehicles after accidents, often requiring knowledge of tools, paint, and safety procedures, with potential for career advancement into supervisory or specialized roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto collision technician?

To thrive as an Auto Collision Technician, you need a solid understanding of vehicle structures, repair techniques, and safety protocols, often supported by a technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic software, frame alignment systems, and refinishing tools is essential in daily repair tasks. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for working with both customers and team members. These skills ensure safe, high-quality repairs that restore vehicles to manufacturer standards and support customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Auto Collision vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAuto CollisionAuto Body Technician
CertificationsASE Collision Repair Certification, I-CAR certificationsASE Body Repair Certification, I-CAR certifications
Work EnvironmentCollision repair shops, auto dealershipsBody shops, collision repair centers
Job FocusAssessing damage, repairing structural and frame issuesRepairing and refinishing vehicle exteriors and panels
Common UsageIn industry and search queries, often used interchangeably with auto body workMore focused on cosmetic repairs and refinishing

Auto Collision specialists primarily focus on diagnosing and repairing structural damage and frame issues after an accident, often working on the vehicle's core integrity. Auto Body Technicians concentrate on repairing and refinishing the vehicle's exterior panels, ensuring cosmetic appearance. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, their specific tasks differ, making them distinct yet complementary roles in vehicle repair.

What are some common challenges auto collision technicians face when working on modern vehicles?

Auto collision technicians often encounter challenges with the increasing complexity of vehicle technology, such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and new materials like high-strength steel and aluminum. These advancements require continual learning and adaptation, as repairs must meet strict manufacturer specifications. Additionally, collaborating closely with estimators, insurance adjusters, and parts suppliers is crucial to ensure timely and accurate repairs. Technicians must balance efficiency with attention to safety and quality, making strong problem-solving skills essential.

What is an auto collision technician?

An auto collision technician is a skilled professional who repairs vehicles that have been damaged in accidents or collisions. They assess the extent of damage, remove and replace damaged parts, straighten vehicle frames, and repaint surfaces to restore vehicles to their pre-accident condition. Auto collision technicians use specialized tools and stay up-to-date with the latest repair techniques and safety standards. They may work in auto body shops, dealerships, or specialized collision repair centers.
What are popular job titles related to Auto Collision jobs in California? For Auto Collision jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Collision jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Collision jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Auto Collision jobs? Cities in California with the most Auto Collision job openings:
Auto Collision jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Collision job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% 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 Collision Estimator

Auto Collision Group, Inc.

Gardena, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Vision insurance

An automotive collision Estimator inspects vehicles that have been damaged and creates an estimate of the necessary repairs. An Estimator follows guidelines that determine the extent of damages as well as what should be charged for repair work. A typical work day for an estimate writer includes inspecting damaged vehicles, consulting guide books for repair costs and creating estimation documents.
 
Summary of Duties:
·       A Collision Estimator is responsible for accurately and efficiently appraising vehicle damages to determine the cost of repairs for the customer or insurance companies:
·       Writes complete estimates/supplements in accordance with company and insurance guidelines with an emphasis on repairing versus replacing parts.
·       Takes clear and accurate photos of damages. 
·       Order parts, check availability and ensure that we receive the accurate discount from all vendors. 
·       Documents and track vehicle progress throughout the entire repair process. Update statuses in the production schedule. 
·       Assigns labor to Technicians and Painter.
·       Educate the customer about the collision repair process; including insurance claims, processing, payment procedures, repair techniques, repair needs and approximate repair time.
·       Conducts daily meetings with front office staff to ensure accurate updates on vehicles are provided.
·       Finalize and line match supplements prior to vehicle delivery. 
·       Confirm the insurance supplements are scanned and attached to estimating system.
·       Pre-close files for delivery.
·       Verifies the exceptions tab in the estimating system throughout the repair process.
·       Ensure all parts have been received and invoices are posted.
·       Confirms all labor has been assigned accordingly.
·       Ensures vehicles are inspected for quality control before vehicles are delivered to customers.
·       Delivers vehicles, explain areas of the vehicle that were repaired and answer any questions the customer may have.
·       Prepares file for final bill upload.
·       Make sure correct verbiage is used on estimate for final billing.
·       Document in notes that you have completed the file and upload for billing.
·       Requires little to no experience in discipline
·       Conducts routine tasks as directed
 
Qualifications:
Education: High School Diploma. 
 
Computer Skill: Basic knowledge Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
 
Other Skills: 
·       Effective oral and written communications skills 
·       Self-starter who is highly organized 
·       Able to handle multiple projects and assignments with attention to detail
·       Problem solving, well organized, detailed oriented and accurate. 
 
 
Additional Preferred Skills/ Experience: 
·       Minimum 3 years of collision auto body repair experience.
·       Knowledge of insurance procedures and requirements.
·       I-CAR certification. 
·       Proficient in the use of estimating software CCC One.
·       Previous auto body shop experience.