Maintain Trucks

Bodywork comes naturally.

Trucks and trailers are the lifeline of every trucking company. Because they are constantly on the go, the equipment often gets damaged and worn. To keep things moving, every transport company needs to have an excellent team of Auto Body Repair people. So if you're great at untwisting, fixing and mending broken and damaged trucks, this just may be the career for you..

• What would I do?
• Where would I work?
• How much would I get paid?
• How do I get to be a Auto Body Repairperson?
• Where would I go from here?
• How do I get started?

What would I do?

As an Auto Body Repairperson, you'll be responsible for repairing and restoring trucks and equipment that's been damaged from wear and tear, road debris and accidents. The type of repair varies from job to job. It can range from fixing small structural and cosmetic scratches and dents to correcting more difficult structural damage from accidents. However, as an Auto Body Repairperson, you're not just responsible for fixing structural and cosmetic damage. You must also ensure that the suspension, steering components, interior components and passenger protection systems (seat belts, air bags, etc.) work properly.

Because you'll be taking a truck out of service, you must be able to provide the Operations Manager with repair estimates indicating how long the truck will be off the road. This way, the carrier can plan accordingly. That's why an Auto Body Repairperson must have good mechanical skills and be attentive to details – all to ensure that repairs are done right, because delays hurt both the carrier and the customer.

Although the work of an Auto Body Repairperson has remained the same over time, the tools, equipment and materials required to make repairs have advanced through the years. From special alloys and composite materials used to make the vehicles, to finishing materials like multi-chromatic paints, UV curing primers, direct-to-metal primers/surfacers and cycle-time reduction clear-coats, there's something new to learn in every aspect of this job.

This position also requires that you use a variety of hand and power tools. Welding and soldering equipment, of course, are also used. In addition, you may work with many different kinds of materials, including metal, glass, plastic and composites. You may also be responsible for preparing surfaces for refinishing and applying refinishing products.

In some provinces or jurisdictions, Auto Body Repair people must hold a provincial trade ticket. Check the requirements in your area.