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Entry Level Body Shop Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Entry Level Shop Technician is responsible for performing entry level mechanical repairs in a ... Perform minor trailer maintenance and body repairs. * Conducts basic air system repairs, including ...

Production Associate

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

These are entry-level positions, and all associates will complete a 2-week paid training program on ... This position requires working with adhesives, cleaning materials, and common shop tools such as ...

Entry Level Body Shop information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$28

$56

How much do entry level body shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level body shop in Virginia is $28.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $35.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level body shop?

Entry level body shop jobs involve assisting in the repair and restoration of vehicles that have been damaged in accidents or through wear and tear. These positions typically include duties such as sanding, masking, prepping vehicles for painting, minor dent repairs, and cleaning up the work area. Employees in these roles often work under the supervision of experienced technicians and learn essential skills needed for a career in auto body repair. No prior experience is usually required, but attention to detail and a willingness to learn are important qualities. These jobs can provide a pathway to more advanced positions in the automotive industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level body shop technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Body Shop Technician, you need a basic understanding of automotive repair, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, paint systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer candidates with I-CAR or ASE certifications. Strong teamwork, willingness to learn, and effective communication help you stand out in this position. These skills ensure high-quality repairs, workplace safety, and positive collaboration with colleagues and customers.

What are common challenges faced by entry level body shop technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level body shop technicians often encounter challenges such as mastering new repair techniques, keeping up with evolving automotive technologies, and working efficiently under time constraints. It's common to feel overwhelmed initially, but most shops provide on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced technicians to help you develop your skills. Building strong communication with your team and being proactive in seeking feedback can accelerate your learning curve and help you adapt quickly. Staying organized and asking questions when uncertain are key steps to overcoming early hurdles in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Body Shop vs Entry Level Auto Painter?

AspectEntry Level Body ShopEntry Level Auto Painter
CertificationsBasic collision repair, safety trainingPaint application, safety procedures
Work EnvironmentCollision repair shops, auto body facilitiesAuto body shops, paint booths
Job ResponsibilitiesRepairing vehicle damages, panel replacementApplying paint, prepping surfaces
Industry UsageWidespread in auto repair industrySpecialized within auto refinishing

Entry Level Body Shop roles focus on vehicle repairs and collision damage, often involving basic certifications and working in collision repair shops. Entry Level Auto Painter positions specialize in applying paint and finishing vehicles, requiring specific painting skills. Both roles are common starting points in auto repair, with overlapping work environments and industry usage, but differ in core tasks and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Body Shop jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Body Shop jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Body Shop job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,440 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Entry Level Body Shop Technician

Ashland, VA • On-site


Rush Enterprises
Trucking • 5 - 10K employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 155 rated car dealerships

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

A Body Shop Technician will repair or replace damaged body parts back to Pre-Accident Condition with factory and dealership specifications. Quality repair need to meet or exceed the original factory fit and finish. The end result should be an invisible repair.
Rush Truck Centers opens the door to the world of opportunity. We are the largest network of commercial vehicle dealerships across the US representing truck and bus manufacturers. Our franchises include Peterbilt, International, Hino, Isuzu, Ford, IC Bus and Blue Bird. We offer a rewarding career as a leader in the transportation industry. Grow with us as we continue to expand our network of locations and services.
Responsibilities:
  • Review each repair order, work order, and estimator's notes to understand repairs needed prior to beginning work on the vehicle.
  • All repairs must be completed according to the documentation on the repair order of the supplement.
  • Must gain knowledge of the manufacturer's and technical repair process.
  • Perform initial teardown of vehicle.
  • Identify parts for cut-in and edging.
  • Follow company procedures in application of under-coating, corrosion protection, seam sealer, weld through primer and lubricants.
  • Re-assemble painted vehicle and painted parts.
  • Perform a final quality check and review of work order prior to sending the vehicle to the detail department.

Benefits:
  • We offer an exceptional Total Rewards package with outstanding healthcare benefits, a robust 401(k) plan with company matching, and an employee stock purchase program to help you build long-term financial security. Additionally, we provide performance-based incentives and opportunities for professional growth through ongoing training and development. All of this is within a culture that values and rewards excellence, a positive attitude, and integrity, ensuring you thrive personally and professionally.

Basic Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • One year body shop experience.
  • Valid driver's license and insurability.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
This job posting does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. The employee will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by their leader.
Minimum Pay Rate
USD $20.00/Hr.
Maximum Pay Rate
USD $25.00/Hr.

Rush Enterprises logo

About Rush Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rush Enterprises "keeps the country running". A Fortune 500 company, we are the largest commercial vehicle dealer group in North America and are 8000+ employees strong and growing. Therefore, our impact (and soon-to-be your impact) is far-reaching.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Braunfels, TX, US

Year founded

1965


What Rush Enterprises employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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