Motor vehicle body repairer
Fix replace broken parts in all types of vehicles so they work and are safe for people to use.
About the job
What it's like
You would fix and replace broken parts in all type of vehicles so they work and are safe for people to use, potentially including hybrid and electric vehicles.
You would inspect the damage to see how bad it is and decide on the best way to do the repairs.
Depending on the problem, you might:
Remove damaged panels or parts to repair at a workbench
Smooth out minor dents in panels with a ‘dolly’ hammer and other tools
Fill small holes or rusted areas with resin, body solder and other compound fillers
Fit new panels where the damage is too bad to be repaired
Build body panels from sheet metal before welding them into place
Once you have fixed the damaged parts, you would refinish the surfaces.
You would:
Remove old paintwork, sealant and rust using a wire wheel attached to a drill or grinder
Clean the repair area and mask off other parts to be left alone
Match the colour, and then prime and paint-spray the repair area
Seal and wax the area
You would keep a record of the work to give to the customer when they come to collect their vehicle. You’d need to work carefully and follow health and safety regulations.
To work with hybrid and electric vehicles, you may require a wider range of skills and knowledge due to the additional health and safety hazards.
Hours
Your working hours would usually be between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some companies operate a shift system, which could include evenings and Saturday mornings.
Environment
You would spend most of your time in a workshop, which might include a paint-spraying booth. You would wear a protective mask, overalls, goggles and gloves for some tasks.
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Related industries
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Engineering and manufacturing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- chassis
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- implementing ideas
- attention to detail
- observation
- resourceful
- listening
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Practical Metalwork
Skills for Work: Automotive Skills
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
You must complete a Modern Apprenticeship (MA) to gain a relevant work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Vehicle Body Repair (SVQ level 2) or Vehicle Body Repair and Alignment (SVQ level 3).
If you choose to study a body repair or maintenance course prior to applying to a Modern Apprenticeship, courses generally require National 4/5 qualifications for entry.
You do not need formal qualifications to enter this job but many employers look for a good general education (SCQF level 4-5) to enter an apprenticeship.
Qualifications that demonstrate physical fitness/strength and practical skills such as Skills for Work Automotive Skills (SCQF level 4).
Once in the job it may be helpful to work towards the Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) from the Institute of the Motor Industry.
An IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) award in electric and hybrid vehicle system repair and replacement and routine maintenance to gain the knowledge and skills required to work safely around these vehicles.
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