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Body Shop Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Elgin, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

South Holland, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Elgin, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Matteson, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$65K - $165K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities * Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. * Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

Auto Body Technician

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$60K - $180K/yr

... apprenticeship as an auto body repairer. Required Skills/Abilities Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision. Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop.

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Body Shop Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$29

$58

How much do body shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for body shop apprentice in Chicago, IL is $29.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $37.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a body shop apprentice?

Body Shop Apprentices are entry-level trainees working under the supervision of experienced auto body technicians in auto repair shops. Their primary role is to learn how to repair, restore, and refinish vehicle bodies and frames after damages such as collisions. They assist with tasks like sanding, painting, dent removal, and parts replacement while gradually taking on more responsibility as they gain skills. Apprenticeships typically combine hands-on work with classroom instruction, preparing individuals for a career as a certified body shop technician.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a body shop apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Body Shop Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of automotive repair, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring candidates enrolled in or graduated from auto body repair programs. Familiarity with hand tools, spray guns, sanding equipment, and safety systems is important, and some shops may require completion of I-CAR or ASE certification courses. Strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and good communication skills help apprentices stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring high-quality repairs, maintaining safety standards, and progressing effectively in the auto body repair field.

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

Body Shop Apprentices often face challenges such as mastering new repair techniques, working efficiently under supervision, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a repair shop. Learning to use specialized tools correctly and keeping up with evolving automotive technology can also be demanding. Overcoming these challenges typically involves seeking guidance from experienced technicians, actively participating in hands-on training, and staying up-to-date with industry certifications. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a positive attitude are also crucial for integrating well with the team and advancing in the role.

What is the difference between Body Shop Apprentice vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectBody Shop ApprenticeAuto Body Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsCertifications often required, such as I-CAR or ASE
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, learning-focusedSkilled, independent work repairing vehicles
Industry UsageTraining role within auto body shopsProfessional repair role in auto body shops

The main difference is that a Body Shop Apprentice is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while an Auto Body Technician is a trained professional capable of independently repairing vehicles. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for the technician role, which requires more experience and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Body Shop jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Body Shop jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Body Shop Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Body Shop Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Body Shop Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Body Shop Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,722 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Body Tech Apprentice - Merrillville, IN

Gerber Collision & Glass

Merrillville, IN

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Gerber Collision & Glass rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 117 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

195th of 374 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Company Description

BUSY SHOPS * GREAT EARNINGS AND BENEFITS * STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY

Gerber Collision & Glass is looking for an exceptional Auto Body Tech Apprentice to join our winning team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced, hard working, quality minded Technician who is looking to make good money and be respected at work.

Job Description

Position Responsibilities:

  • Follow directions given by Mentor Technician
  • Disassemble and reassemble vehicles and related parts
  • Minor body work in accordance with the repair plan
  • Enhance your abilities through experience and coaching
Qualifications
  • 1-3+ years of automotive experience (work, school, or hobby)
  • Exposure to collision repair is a huge bonus
  • Exceptional problem solving skills
  • Ability to keep up and succeed in a fast paced working environment
  • Positive team player attitude with a desire to learn and succeed in the industry

What Gerber Collision & Glass employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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