Reliable attendance and strong work ethic No prior automotive or van conversion experience required. Career Growth Path We offer a clear, performance-based career path : Tech I ? Tech II ? Tech III * ...
Reliable attendance and strong work ethic No prior automotive or van conversion experience required. Career Growth Path We offer a clear, performance-based career path : Tech I ? Tech II ? Tech III * ...
Van Build Technician/Mechanic I
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
$22 - $26/hr
Reliable attendance and strong work ethic No prior automotive or van conversion experience required. Career Growth Path We offer a clear, performance-based career path : Tech I ? Tech II ? Tech III * ...
Van Build Technician/Mechanic I
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
$22 - $26/hr
Reliable attendance and strong work ethic No prior automotive or van conversion experience required. Career Growth Path We offer a clear, performance-based career path : Tech I ? Tech II ? Tech III * ...
Van Conversion information
See Portland, OR salary details
$8.92 - $10.10
2% of jobs
$10.10 - $11.29
3% of jobs
$11.29 - $12.47
8% of jobs
$13.38 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.47 - $13.65
15% of jobs
$13.65 - $14.83
15% of jobs
The median wage is $15.42 / hr.
$14.83 - $16.01
14% of jobs
$16.01 - $17.20
13% of jobs
$17.67 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.20 - $18.38
14% of jobs
$18.38 - $19.56
8% of jobs
$19.56 - $20.74
5% of jobs
$20.74 - $21.92
3% of jobs
$8
$16
$21
How much do van conversion jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for van conversion in Portland, OR is $16.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a van conversion?
A Van Conversion job involves transforming a standard van into a customized, functional living or working space. This can include insulation, flooring, electrical systems, plumbing, cabinetry, and other modifications to suit personal or business needs. Professionals in this field work with carpentry, electrical wiring, and plumbing to create efficient, comfortable layouts. Van conversion jobs may be DIY projects or done by specialized companies catering to campervan enthusiasts, mobile businesses, or custom transport solutions.
What does a van conversion do?
As a van conversion specialist, your daily tasks often include custom-fitting insulation, building cabinetry, installing electrical and plumbing systems, and performing finish carpentry inside the vehicle. You'll read blueprints or customer layouts, select appropriate materials, and use a range of hand and power tools to complete various phases of the build. Collaboration with other tradespeople, such as electricians or upholsterers, may also be common, especially on larger or more complex projects. Time management and keeping a tidy work environment are key, as you may juggle multiple projects or client needs throughout a typical week.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the van conversion position, and why are they important?
To thrive in Van Conversion, you need solid carpentry, electrical, and mechanical skills, usually supported by technical training or relevant hands-on experience. Familiarity with power tools, 12V and 110V electrical systems, plumbing fixtures, and safety standards is essential, along with any OSHA certifications being a plus. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients and teammates will help you stand out. These skills are crucial to ensure high-quality conversions that meet customer expectations, comply with safety regulations, and are completed efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR?
The most popular types of Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR?
For Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR look for?
The top searched job categories for Van Conversion jobs in Portland, OR are:
Van Build Technician/Mechanic I
Wilsonville, OR • On-site
Swickard Corporation, d/b/a Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 9 days ago
Job description
Description
Slate Upfitting | $22-$26/hr + Benefits | Full-Time | Start your technician career | Paid training | Hands-on build work
Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville's Slate Upfitting Shop is hiring a Van Build Technician I - an entry-level opportunity to start a career as a technician in the automotive industry.
In this role, you'll work on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, helping build high-quality, RVIA-certified conversions. You'll gain real, hands-on experience with tools, electrical systems, and vehicle builds in a structured shop environment. No prior automotive experience required - we hire for mechanical aptitude, work ethic, and reliability, and train you to our standards.
This is more than an entry-level job - it's a foundation for a long-term technician career. You'll gain exposure to:
- Automotive systems and components
- Electrical and mechanical installation work
- Structured shop processes and production workflow
Many technicians build their careers from roles like this.
As a Tech I, you will complete defined build tasks under the direction of senior technicians and shop leadership.
- Assist with electrical wiring and basic system installs
- Perform structural installs and component mounting
- Install cabinetry, panels, and interior systems
- Support integration of electrical and mechanical components
- Follow step-by-step build procedures and instructions
- Complete work accurately within production timelines
- Maintain a clean and organized workspace
- Work as part of a team to keep builds moving efficiently
This is a hands-on, physically active role where consistency and attention to detail are critical.
- Strong mechanical aptitude (required)
- Ability to follow written instructions and processes
- Interest in starting a technician or skilled trade career
- Experience in hands-on work is helpful, including:
- Construction
- Automotive
- Manufacturing
- General labor or fabrication
- Comfortable using hand and power tools
- Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
No prior automotive or van conversion experience required.
We offer a clear, performance-based career path: Tech I ? Tech II ? Tech III
- Advancement based on skill, quality, and consistency
- Pay increases tied to what you can do - not time in role
- Opportunity to grow into a highly skilled technician
- RVIA-certified build standards
- Structured production environment
- Defined processes and build documentation
- Team-focused workflow with strong leadership
- High expectations for quality and accountability
- Competitive hourly pay: $22-$26/hr
- Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
- 401(k) plan
- Paid Time Off and holidays
- Employee vehicle purchase and service discounts
- Ongoing training and career development
- Start your career with a premium automotive brand
- Learn a hands-on, in-demand technical skillset
- Be part of a growing upfitting operation
- Clear path for advancement and long-term growth
- Work in a team that values precision, consistency, and craftsmanship