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Collision Repair Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Teach automotive collision repair, refinishing, structural repair, non-structural repair, estimating, welding, and related courses as assigned. * Develop, revise, and maintain course materials ...

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Nationally Recognized Automotive Trainings & Certifications (instructor-led or online) * Company ... collision repair, and fire repair.

Collision Repair Instructor information

See California salary details

$22.5K

$49.5K

$76.4K

How much do collision repair instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for collision repair instructor in California is $49,468.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,596.00 and $52,878.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a collision repair instructor do?

A Collision Repair Instructor teaches students the skills and knowledge required to repair and refinish vehicles that have been damaged in accidents. They develop and deliver lessons on topics such as welding, painting, frame alignment, and safety procedures while ensuring students understand industry standards and best practices. Instructors also supervise hands-on training in workshops, assess student progress, and stay updated on the latest automotive repair technologies. Their goal is to prepare students for certification exams and successful careers in the collision repair industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a collision repair instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Collision Repair Instructor, you need advanced knowledge of auto body repair, refinishing, and welding, typically supported by industry certifications like ASE and prior experience in collision repair. Familiarity with instructional technologies, collision repair estimating software, and modern repair tools is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and mentoring abilities help engage students and foster effective learning environments. These skills ensure students receive up-to-date technical instruction and are well-prepared for careers in the automotive repair industry.

What are some common challenges collision repair instructors face when teaching hands-on skills to students?

Collision Repair Instructors often encounter challenges in ensuring all students grasp complex hands-on techniques, especially when students have varying levels of prior experience. Balancing classroom theory with practical shop time requires careful planning to keep everyone engaged and safe. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving automotive technologies means instructors must regularly update their own skills and adapt training materials. Building strong communication and mentorship skills is key to supporting students' learning and confidence in real-world repair scenarios.

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

AspectCollision Repair InstructorCollision Repair Technician
CredentialsTeaching certifications, industry experienceASE certifications, vocational training
Work EnvironmentClassroom, training facilitiesAuto body shops, repair centers
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, technical schoolsAuto repair shops, collision centers

Collision Repair Instructors focus on teaching students the skills needed for auto body repair, often working in educational settings. Collision Repair Technicians perform hands-on repairs in repair shops. While both roles require industry knowledge, instructors emphasize training and curriculum development, whereas technicians focus on repairing vehicles.

What job categories do people searching Collision Repair Instructor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Collision Repair Instructor jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Collision Repair Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,468 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

$38 - $42/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Universal Technical Institute rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

167th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview

Wanted Instructors.  

Never taught? No problem! If you have the drive, patience, skills, and passion we'll train you! You've come this far to become an amazing Technician...why don't you take the next step to make that happen for the next generation of Collision Technicians? Nothing is more rewarding than seeing the student you taught succeed, knowing you were the one that made it happen!

Position Overview:As a Collision Repair Instructor, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the minds and skills of our students. Your expertise in autobody paint and collision repair will be the guiding light that leads them to a promising career in many different industries. We believe that hands-on learning is the key to success, so get ready to dive into the world of interactive teaching and inspire the next generation to conquer the challenges of modern collision repair technology.

What We Offer:

$38.00 - $42.00 per hour/year Weekends OFF Paid Training FREE UTI or Concorde Tuition for you AND your Immediate Family Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Ins/STD & LTD Ins 401K, Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off Paid Parental Leave ADD OTHER BENEFITS

Responsibilities
  • Inspire and Educate: Create an engaging and inclusive learning environment where students can flourish, fostering their passion for wind energy while imparting your expert knowledge.
  • Hands-On Training: Lead by example and provide practical demonstrations, ensuring students gain real-world experience in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbine systems.
  • Curriculum Development: Collaborate with our education team to enhance existing courses and develop new ones that align with industry trends and advancements.
  • Mentorship: Guide and mentor students on their individual projects, encouraging them to think critically and find innovative solutions.
  • Safety First: Instill the importance of safety procedures and best practices to ensure a secure working environment for students.
Qualifications
    • Education: High school diploma or GED
    • Experience: 3-5years of practical work experience in the field. 
    • Certifications: ASEs (B2) I-CAR, painting and refinishing experience is highly valued, but if not current, we will pay for you to obtain
    • Communication Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to effectively connect with students and fellow staff
    • Patience and Empathy: A patient and empathetic approach to teaching, understanding that every student learns at their own pace

    About Us:

    It's all about the reputation.  60+ years of experience, trusted by 35+ industry leading brands, 16 campuses, 5 technical schools.  But it's not all about the numbers. Here at Universal Technical Institute and its family of schools, we care about YOU. We care about making a change in the lives of our employees and our students. We're on a mission to expand our reach and increase our impact, one life at a time and that starts with yours...Come and be a part of our legacy!

#LI-LG1

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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