Automotive Body and Related Repairers
O*NET 49-3021.00 · SOC 49-3021
Automotive Body and Related Repairer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $55k a year with +3.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 12,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Straighten bent vehicle frames using hydraulic frame-pulling equipment
- →Fill dents with body filler and sand smooth before painting
- →Replace crumpled fenders, hoods, and door panels after collisions
- →Align replacement body panels to match factory fit and gaps
- →Weld cracked or torn metal body sections on damaged vehicles
Education & How to Get In
Automotive Body and Related Repairer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Automotive Body and Related Repairer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Automotive Body and Related Repairer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Automotive Body and Related Repairer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Automotive Body and Related Repairers is projected to grow 3.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·52% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Automotive Body and Related Repairer make?
The median Automotive Body and Related Repairer earns $55k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Automotive Body and Related Repairer jobs?
Our model puts Automotive Body and Related Repairer at 40 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 52% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Automotive Body and Related Repairer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 12,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Automotive Body and Related Repairer?
Most Automotive Body and Related Repairer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Automotive Body and Related Repairer?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Automotive Body and Related Repairer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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