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Body Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Body Apprentice information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do body apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for body apprentice in Michigan is $14.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Body Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Body Apprentice, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, sanding equipment, and safety protocols is often required, with many employers preferring candidates enrolled in or having completed an automotive body repair program. Strong communication skills, a willingness to learn, and teamwork help you stand out in this hands-on training role. These skills and qualities are important as they ensure quality repair work, safety, and a smooth learning process in a workshop environment.

What is the difference between Body Apprentice vs Body Technician?

AspectBody ApprenticeBody Technician
CertificationsBasic training, on-the-job learningAdvanced certifications, ASE or I-CAR training
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, learning-focusedExperienced, independent, repair-focused
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with repairs, learning techniquesPerforming repairs, diagnosing issues, refinishing

The main difference between a Body Apprentice and a Body Technician is experience and skill level. A Body Apprentice is in training, gaining foundational skills under supervision, while a Body Technician is fully qualified, performing repairs independently. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas technicians handle complex tasks and diagnostics.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Body apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, motivation, and a willingness to learn over age, and some programs may have minimum age requirements but generally do not set upper age limits.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship?

The highest paying apprenticeships are often in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC, where apprentices can earn competitive wages while gaining specialized skills. In some industries like construction or manufacturing, apprentices with advanced certifications or working in high-demand areas may also earn higher wages. Body apprenticeships typically offer lower pay compared to these trades, but wages can increase with experience and additional certifications.

How to become a body man?

A body man, or auto body technician, typically becomes qualified through a combination of high school education or GED, followed by technical training or apprenticeship programs in auto body repair. Skills in welding, painting, and knowledge of auto repair tools are essential, and obtaining certifications like I-CAR can enhance job prospects.

What are Body Apprentices?

Body Apprentices are entry-level trainees who learn the skills required to repair and restore vehicle bodies, typically under the supervision of experienced technicians in an auto body shop or collision repair center. Their duties often include tasks like removing dents, replacing panels, sanding surfaces, and preparing vehicles for painting. Body Apprentices usually participate in a formal apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This role provides a foundation for advancing to a fully qualified auto body technician.

What is the highest paying apprentice job?

Among apprentice roles, those in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC often have higher pay rates, especially when apprentices gain certifications and experience. Some specialized technical apprenticeships in fields like aerospace or manufacturing can also offer higher wages as skills develop. Overall, apprenticeships in high-demand trades tend to be among the highest paying for entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Body Apprentices during the early stages of training?

Body Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering the use of specialized tools, learning proper safety protocols, and developing the attention to detail required for high-quality repairs. Adapting to the fast-paced environment of an auto body shop and efficiently collaborating with experienced technicians can also be demanding at first. However, with hands-on practice and mentorship, apprentices quickly gain confidence and proficiency in performing essential tasks like sanding, painting, and panel replacement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Body jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Body jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Body Apprentice job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,987 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Automotive Apprentice Body Technician

Truck Collision Services- Lansing

Lansing, MI โ€ข On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

At Truck Collision Services, we strive to conduct our business as a well-respected organization; with integrity, hard work, and with the highest care for our people, customers, and business partners.ย  Every employee at our organization is absolutely critical to our success. Our promise is to keep delivering the same award-winning service and value that our community has come to expect from our group throughout the years. We are a leader in the Industry thru innovative equipment & training.
ย 

Benefits:

  • Medical Insuranceย 
  • Paid uniforms
  • Paid vacation program
  • Paid Holidays
  • Holiday cook-outs
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Dental Insurance Available
  • Vision Insurance Available
  • Disability Available
  • Continousย Education and Training

Pay: $18 - $28.00 / hourย 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform Pulling Operations for body repairsย as needed
  • Remove and Replace damaged body parts, panels, etc.
  • Perform shrinking and stretching operations commonย found in bodyshop operationsย 
  • Perform welding tasks of all metals (Aluminum, Steel, Stainless) and plastics
  • Preform Fiberglass & Composite repairs using bonding materialsย 
  • Perform tasks such as grinding, sanding, buffing and mask-off areas not to be painted
  • Fill cavities and dents as necessary and surfaces repaired area to attain required finish
  • Maintain clean and safe work environment
  • Positions articles in jigs or erects ladders or scaffolding
  • Knowledge and use of fastening techniques a plus (Rivets, Huck Bolts, Henrob/SPR)
  • I-Car Certification a plus
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Background in paint and body repair
  • Previous experience doing bodywork, with a minimum of 1ย years hands-on experience and/or Trade School.
  • Must be able to perform accident related mechanical repairs
  • A High School or GED equivalent required.
  • A certificate from an accredited technical or an industrial trade school is preferred.
  • ASE, I-Car, State License certificate is prefered
  • Needs to be a self-starter with proficiency in budgeting time.
  • Incumbent must possess basic hand tools for the position and upgrade such tools as required to complete the tasks assigned.

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment withoutย regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protectedย veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristicย protected by federal, state or local laws.