ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Collision Repair Apprentice Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Crash Champions

Auto Body Technician

Ferndale, MI · On-site

$65K/yr

... collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also operates the growing Crash Champions ... apprentice in the performance of tasks when needed, i.e., unusual problems or questions and ...

Crash Champions

Auto Body Technician

Ferndale, MI · On-site

$65K/yr

... collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also operates the growing Crash Champions ... apprentice in the performance of tasks when needed, i.e., unusual problems or questions and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCollision Repair Apprentice JobsCollision Repair Apprentice Jobs in Detroit, MI

Collision Repair Apprentice information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$13

$28

$50

How much do collision repair apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for collision repair apprentice in Detroit, MI is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $32.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a collision repair apprentice?

A Collision Repair Apprentice is an entry-level worker in the automotive repair industry who is learning to restore vehicles damaged in accidents. Under the supervision of experienced technicians, apprentices assist with tasks such as removing dents, replacing damaged parts, and refinishing surfaces. They gain hands-on experience and technical knowledge through on-the-job training and, in some cases, classroom instruction. This role is an important step toward becoming a fully certified collision repair technician.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a collision repair apprentice?

To thrive as a Collision Repair Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of automotive repair, hand and power tool proficiency, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like frame straighteners, welding equipment, and estimating software, as well as certifications from organizations like I-CAR, are valuable. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, high-quality repairs, efficient teamwork, and successful progression in the collision repair industry.

What are some common challenges faced by collision repair apprentices during their training period?

Collision Repair Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering the use of specialized tools, learning to accurately assess vehicle damage, and keeping up with the latest repair technologies. Working alongside experienced technicians, apprentices must quickly adapt to a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and safety are critical. Additionally, balancing on-the-job training with classroom instruction can be demanding, but it offers valuable hands-on experience and builds a strong foundation for career advancement in the automotive repair industry.

What is the difference between Collision Repair Apprentice vs Collision Repair Technician?

AspectCollision Repair ApprenticeCollision Repair Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, some certificationsCertifications often required (e.g., I-CAR, ASE)
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised workFull-time, independent repair work
Industry UsageEntry-level role, training phaseExperienced professional, repair specialist

The Collision Repair Apprentice is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining hands-on experience under supervision. The Collision Repair Technician is a more experienced role responsible for performing repairs independently, often requiring certifications. Both roles are integral to the auto body repair industry, with apprentices progressing toward becoming technicians.

Does Caliber Collision have a collision repair apprentice program?

Caliber Collision offers a collision repair apprentice program designed to train individuals in auto body repair, including skills such as welding, sanding, and painting. The program typically combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction and may lead to certification in collision repair techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Collision Repair jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Collision Repair jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Collision Repair Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Collision Repair Apprentice job openings:

Collision Repair Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Collision Repair Apprentice job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,465 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Automotive BluePrinting Apprenticeship

Wixom, MI • On-site

Snap-on Inc
Transportation Equipment Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Good employer

Paid breaks

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Snap-on Incexternal

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Overview

Starting Pay for Market: $20-24/hr based on experienceCar-O-Liner is excited to offer an apprenticeship opportunity for the right individual. This individual will have a unique opportunity to learn from an industry leader and take part in revolutionizing the collision repair process. They will become an integral part in the collection, support, and development of the world's largest measurement database. They will assist in the validation and creation of detailed measuring points, clamping data and setup information for past, current and future vehicle models necessary to support the collision repair industry. Engage in opportunities collaborating with all the automotive OEMs in the development and collection of critical serviceability areas to ensure that new vehicles can be repaired efficiently and effectively in support of the insurance and repair industry. This is a 2-year apprenticeship program where the individual will work side-by-side with our existing North America expert and our global engineering team to become our next subject matter expert.This role demands a strong understanding of vehicle structural design, materials and their associated repair methods. They must also possess good mechanical, mathematical, geometry, and visual skills. Exposure to Computer Aided Design CAD is highly desired.

Responsibilities
  • Proactively collaborate with Automotive OEM teams to influence vehicle design for enhanced serviceability and overall customer ownership experience.
  • Engage with global engineering teams in the design and testing of vehicle mounting/clamping required to service and repair current and future models.
  • Assist in the creation and validation of vehicle measuring data utilized in the estimation and repairing of damaged vehicles.
  • Strategically identify essential mounting fixtures and clamps required for Car-O-Liner products, while actively working to minimize the overall need for specialized tooling.
  • Support the engineering and service teams in maintaining industry leadership and partnerships.
  • Ensure products meet all safety & quality standards.
  • Participate in serviceability trials and competitive benchmarking activities.
  • Support Product Manual reviews
  • Support the maintenance, updates, and authoring of new service information.
Qualifications

You'll have...

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience in collision industry.
  • 2+ years of experience in automotive collision repair services
  • 2+ years of experience in vehicle assembly/disassembly/repair in the collision industry
  • Strong mathematical aptitude
  • Ability to work closely with Mentor on a daily basis
  • Ability to listen
  • Vehicle disassembly and reassembly experience

Even better, you may have...

  • I-CAR and/or ASE certifications in Collision Repair Technology
  • CAD Software/ Data experience
  • Welding experience with Steel, Aluminum, Ultra High Strength Steel, etc.
  • ADAS experience
  • Ability to manage critical timing and conflicting demands
  • Project manage and progress multiple workstreams at once
  • Lead through influence and collaborate across Enterprise
  • Use data and customer insights to influence strategic decisions
  • Problem solve against competing cross-functional priorities

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Car-O-Liner, we encourage you to apply!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Snap-on employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply