Panel Beating Apprenticeships
(AUR32420 Certificate III in Automotive
Refinishing Technolgy)
Thinking about starting a Panel Beating Apprenticeship. Panel Beating Apprenticeship also know as Vehicle Body Repair or Smash Repair isn’t just about bashing out car panels. It’s the pathway to a range of different career opportunities. An apprentice panel beater has the opportunity to learn the latest techniques for repairing metal, fibreglass and the plastic bodywork of modern vehicles.
This role may be suitable for an individual who enjoys practical, technical and hands on work. If you’re up for a challenge and have good numeracy and literacy skills, this is the career for you!
Panel Beater Apprentices specialize in vehicle body repairs, usually after the event of either a major or minor accident. Their job is to perform the necessary repairs to the main panels and sub panels of any vehicle, which may also include making and forming new panels using either machines or hand tools. A good panel beater is able to restore any vehicle to pre-accident condition. To get started in your Panel Beating Apprentice apply at https://www.apprus.com.au/apply/
or at check out our other positions at https://au.indeed.com/cmp/Apprenticeships-Are-US-1/jobs#cmp-skip-header-desktop
What will I learn?
As part of your apprenticeship, you will learn how to:
- Determine the nature and extent of damage to a vehicle so it can be expertly repaired.
- Repair, remove or replace damaged panels and sub-structures.
- Return a car to manufacturer’s specifications using specialised tools.
- Use mechanical and hydraulic equipment, and computer alignment programs and processes.
- Use metal welding and modern bonding techniques.
- File, grind and sand panel surfaces.
- Re-fit body hardware such as door locks.
- Realign chassis and body frames.
- Remove and replace a vehicle’s auto-electrical components if damaged.
What skills do I need?
No prior knowledge or experience is necessary but a keen interest in cars and a practical aptitude will help.
An apprenticeship is designed to teach you the skills and knowledge you need with practical training at work, and extra studies at a Registered Training Organisation.
An apprenticeship will get you started in the industry, and open up the doors to a great career.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entrance requirements to become a Panel Beating Apprentice however you will need to be placed in an apprenticeship to start your training and you should be able to read, write and understand basic mathematical concepts. Successful applicants will be required to complete enrolment documentation. You must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
What are my training options?
You can do a full-time Panel Beating Apprenticeship, resulting in a Certificate III Vehicle Body Repair qualification. This includes training within a workshop as well as with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). A school-based apprenticeship can also be completed whilst at school (the length of study may vary depending on the school, RTO and workplace arrangements).
Duration of an apprenticeship
This apprenticeship has a nominal duration of 4 years to complete, during which you must be employed in an apprenticeship contract. It is possible to complete the apprenticeship contract sooner if you achieve the necessary competencies before this time.
Career pathways
What next?
How far you go is completely up to you!
Your apprenticeship is the first step. It can get you started on the way to a successful career as a:
- Qualified Panel Beater ($65K – $100K)
- Workshop Manager ($80K – $165K)
- Franchise Owner ($100K – $180K)
- Service Advisor ($85K – $120K)
- Service Manager ($1000K – $165K)
- Sales ($85K – $160K)
- Skills Trainer ($85K – $100K)
- Warranty ($75K – $90K)
- Business Admin ($65K – $90K)
- Engineer ($100K – $190K)
Technology is always changing, creating a higher demand for skilled workers in the automotive industry.
