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Body Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Identify and resolve parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Body Shop ... Lead work of any apprentice technicians and maintain ASE certifications. Qualifications * Welding ...

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Auto Body Technician

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

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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 12, 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.
Auto Body Technician

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


CollisionRight rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 332 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Now Hiring: Auto Body Technician
Employment Type: Full-Time

Be a part of a company that knows your worth and acts with careappreciating our employees, valuing our customers, and celebrating your success.

What We Offer
  • Paid Holidays & Floating Holidays

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Top-Notch Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)

  • 401(k) with Company Match

  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)

  • Supplemental Life Insurance

  • Disability Insurance

  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid Training & Ongoing Career Development

About the Role

The Auto Body Technician is responsible for repairing damaged vehicle body parts in accordance with company specifications, processes, and time standards. Youll play a critical role in restoring vehicles to pre-accident condition while ensuring safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

What Youll Do
  • Examine and evaluate damaged vehicles to plan efficient repairs according to established standards.

  • Communicate with management and team members on repair status throughout all phases.

  • Alert management to any issues that may prevent quality work or delay completion.

  • Maintain tools and equipment in good working order; operate safely at all times.

  • Keep work area organized, clean, and free of safety hazards.

  • Wear and maintain all required PPE, including eye protection.

  • Assist other team members in repairs and prep work, as needed.

  • Stay up to date and comply with all federal, state, and local regulations affecting body shop operations (e.g., hazardous waste disposal).

What Were Looking For
  • Certified or non-certified techs all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply

  • Solid knowledge of collision repair processes, techniques, and materials

  • Minimum 13 years of experience in the collision repair industry

  • Strong knowledge of vehicle structure and the ability to remove and replace damaged components

  • Physical ability to lift up to 35 lbs regularly and over 70 lbs occasionally

  • Agility and coordination to work in various positions, including climbing, kneeling, crouching, and crawling

  • Comfortable in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment with strong attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications
  • Valid Drivers License (Required)

  • I-CAR and ASE Certification

Join Us!

If youre ready to put your skills to work in a supportive environment with great pay, benefits, and growth potential, wed love to meet you. Apply today and become part of a team that values quality work and celebrates success.

This position description is intended to be dynamic and subject to change. Position requirements and essential functions may be altered from time to time based upon the needs of the organization and department. This position may be required to execute special projects or other related duties on occasion.

Equal employment and affirmative action opportunities are provided to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

Keywords

Automotive, growth, advancement, collision repair, collision center, auto body, autobody, body shop, I-CAR, ICAR, dent repair, PDR, paintless, bodyman, body man, body tech, bodytech, auto body tech, auto tech, collision tech, collision technician, dealership, apprentice, ASE, body shop, bodyshop, weld, welding, welder, frame tech


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