Body Shop Apprentice Technician

Sternberg Automotive Group; Jasper (IN); On-site; USD 16,531 - 27,552; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Certificate program upon completion

Job summary

Sternberg Automotive Group is seeking a body shop apprentice in Jasper, Indiana. You will learn to disassemble vehicles, prep surfaces, and operate body shop tools under direct supervision to progress toward full technician certification.

The program includes paid training and a path to a vocational certificate upon successful completion, with requirements set by the company for advancement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational or automotive tech programs are a major plus.
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 70 lbs, bending and standing.

Responsibilities

• Disassemble vehicles to access frames and panels under supervision.
• Assist with surface prep, sanding, masking, priming, and body filler work.
• Learn to safely operate body shop tools and equipment.
• Support mentors with basic repairs, panel alignment, and part replacements.
• Keep the work area clean and compliant with safety and waste regulations.

Skills

Vehicle disassembly

Surface preparation

Tool operation

Repair assistance

Shop maintenance

Education

High school diploma

Vocational automotive programs

Tools

Welders

Grinders

Frame machines

Job description

A body shop apprentice assists experienced technicians in repairing and restoring collision-damaged vehicles. Under direct supervision, you will learn to disassemble parts, prep and sand surfaces, operate equipment, and complete formal training to advance to a fully certified technician.

For the right candidate, after a determined trial period company provided and paid local body shop vocational certificate. Paid training, provided candidate maintains company determined requirements.

If you are not looking to attend school to become a certified collision technician, please do not apply.

Core Responsibilities

• Vehicle Disassembly: Safely remove trim, upholstery, and damaged parts to access internal vehicle frames and panels.
• Surface Preparation: Assist with sanding, masking, priming, and applying body filler to prepare areas for painting.
• Tool Operation: Learn to properly and safely handle body shop tools, including welders, grinders, and frame machines.
• Repair Assistance: Help mentors with basic structural repairs, panel alignment, and part replacements.
• Shop Maintenance: Keep the work area clean, organized, and compliant with hazardous waste disposal regulations.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent; completion of vocational or automotive tech programs is a major plus.
• License: A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Physical Demands: Ability to perform continuous physical activity, including lifting heavy parts (up to 50 to 70 lbs), bending, standing, and squatting.

Career Growth

Many body shops structure this role using certified curriculum to provide a clear path from a beginner to a journeyman. For example, large networks structure their training to include manufacturer-specific certifications and industry-recognized credentials like those offered by I-CAR Registered Apprenticeship Program.