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Automotive Detailing Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technician Apprentice

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Automotive Technician Apprentice to join our service team. As an apprentice, you will work under the supervision of experienced technicians to gain ...

Technician Apprentice

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Automotive Technician Apprentice to join our service team. As an apprentice, you will work under the supervision of experienced technicians to gain ...

Apprentice Technician

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Automotive Technician/Apprentice Get your career in gear with Rafih Auto Group! If you have the ... Attention to detail * Operate a wide variety of cars, with ability to drive both manual and ...

Apprentice Technician

Shelby Township, MI ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Automotive Technician/Apprentice Get your career in gear with Rafih Auto Group! If you have the ... Attention to detail * Operate a wide variety of cars, with ability to drive both manual and ...

Apprentice Technician

Annapolis, MD ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

JOIN OUR TEAM At Penske Automotive Group (PAG), we strive to create a positive and challenging ... Outstanding attention to detail with a commitment to quality * Ability to follow processes to ...

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Automotive Detailing Apprentice information

See salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do automotive detailing apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive detailing apprentice in the United States is $16.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automotive detailing apprentice do?

An Automotive Detailing Apprentice assists with cleaning, restoring, and protecting the interior and exterior surfaces of vehicles. Their responsibilities include washing, waxing, vacuuming, polishing, and sometimes minor cosmetic repairs to ensure vehicles look their best. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced detailers, learning proper techniques, the safe use of chemicals, and how to use specialized equipment. This role is a starting point in the automotive detailing industry and provides valuable hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive detailing apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Detailing Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of vehicle cleaning techniques, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning tools, buffers, steam cleaners, and safe use of detailing chemicals is typically required. Strong work ethic, good time management, and the ability to follow instructions help apprentices stand out in this hands-on role. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining high standards of vehicle appearance and ensuring customer satisfaction in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by automotive detailing apprentices, and how can they be overcome?

Automotive Detailing Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering various cleaning techniques, managing time efficiently to meet deadlines, and handling a range of detailing products and equipment. It can also be physically demanding, requiring attention to detail in hard-to-reach areas. Overcoming these challenges involves seeking guidance from experienced team members, practicing proper use of tools, and staying organized. Most shops foster a collaborative environment, so apprentices are encouraged to ask questions and learn from feedback, which accelerates skill development.

What is the difference between Automotive Detailing Apprentice vs Automotive Technician?

AspectAutomotive Detailing ApprenticeAutomotive Technician
CredentialsBasic training, on-the-job learningCertifications like ASE, formal training
Work EnvironmentAuto shops, dealerships, detailing centersRepair shops, dealerships, service centers
Job FocusCleaning, polishing, cosmetic careDiagnosing, repairing, maintaining vehicles
Industry UsageEntry-level, learning roleSkilled, technical role

While both roles work within the automotive industry, an Automotive Detailing Apprentice focuses on vehicle cleaning and cosmetic enhancement, often as an entry-level position. An Automotive Technician, however, performs repairs and diagnostics requiring more advanced skills and certifications. The apprentice role is ideal for those starting in automotive care, whereas technicians handle more complex mechanical work.

More about Automotive Detailing Apprentice jobs

What cities are hiring for Automotive Detailing Apprentice jobs?

Cities with the most Automotive Detailing Apprentice job openings:

What states have the most Automotive Detailing Apprentice jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automotive Detailing Apprentice jobs include:

Infographic showing various Automotive Detailing Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,213 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Automotive Apprentice Technician Clinton

Dan Pilson Auto Center Inc

Clinton, IN โ€ข On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description:

Position Overview: We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team as

an Automotive Apprentice Technician. In this role, you will work alongside experienced

technicians to learn and apply skills related to vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics. This

is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about cars and eager to start a career in the

automotive industry.


Up your game! Pilson will assist in paying for your automotive technician education and training

programs.


Got tools? Pilson will purchase your own tools to use.

Up to $2,000.00 sign on bonus depending upon education and experience.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities:

Assist senior technicians in diagnosing and repairing vehicle issues.

Learn and perform routine maintenance tasks including oil changes, tire rotations, and

fluid checks.

Gain hands-on experience using tools and equipment for automotive repairs.

Follow safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.

Develop skills in using diagnostic tools to identify mechanical and electrical problems.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas.

Interact with customers professionally and assist in explaining repair recommendations.

Participate in training programs to enhance automotive knowledge and skills.


Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Enrolled in or completed a formal automotive technology program is preferred.

Basic understanding of automotive systems and components.

Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.

Ability to follow instructions and work effectively in a team environment.

Good communication skills and customer service mindset.

Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

Physical ability to lift heavy objects and perform tasks requiring bending and kneeling.


Preferred Education/Experience:

Preferred experience as a tire/lube/oil technician.

May consider one year certificate from technical school, vocational school, three-six months

automotive work experience/training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.


Career Path: Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program and gaining

experience, you will have opportunities to advance to a full Automotive Technician role.

Continued education and training can lead to specialization in specific automotive areas such as

diagnostics, electronics, or engine repair.


Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee

encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations

may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly exposed to work near moving

mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; outdoor weather conditions and risk of electrical

shock. The employee is frequently exposed to extreme cold (non-weather) and extreme heat

(non-weather). The employee is occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions (non-

weather); work in high, precarious places and toxic or caustic chemicals.

The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.


Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an

employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable

accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential

functions.

The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 50 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to

100 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision, Depth perception and Ability to

adjust focus. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to

stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear and

taste or smell. The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The

employee is occasionally required to sit and climb or balance.


Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of

activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties,

responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.