Body Shop Tech Trainee

Sonny Merryman Inc•Evington, VA

9d•$16 - $17•Onsite

About The Position

The Body Shop Technician Trainee supports the main body shop by learning and performing body-related repairs under the guidance of senior technicians. This position includes hands-on training in bodywork repairs, fiberglass repairs, priming and painting, masking, parts replacement, and other vehicle body repair tasks. When wreck repairs or main body shop repair work are not available, the trainee will support and learn the Body Shop PDI process for new buses, including inspection, correction, documentation, and customer-specific preparation duties.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
General knowledge of body repair techniques, fiberglass repair, surface preparation, priming, and painting application preferred; willingness to learn required.
Basic understanding of vehicle operations and components.
Proficient with basic hand tools and equipment.
Basic computer skills and data entry.
Strong communication skills and willingness to work with a team.
Willingness to learn from senior technicians, troubleshoot repair concerns, and expand product and body shop process knowledge.

Responsibilities

Learn and perform bodywork repairs under the direction of senior body shop technicians.
Perform fiberglass repairs, panel repairs, surface preparation, sanding, masking, priming, and painting as assigned.
Replace damaged or worn body-related parts and components as needed.
Assist with various body-related repairs on buses and other vehicles brought into the main body shop.
Use proper repair procedures, tools, materials, and safety practices while developing body shop repair skills.
Remain willing to learn from senior technicians and apply coaching, feedback, and demonstrated repair methods.
Learn and follow the Body Shop PDI checklist tailored to each new bus or vehicle type.
Conduct visual inspections of exterior panels for dents, dings, creases, fiberglass concerns, and paint flaws.
Verify correct placement of reflective tape, decals, and customer-specific items.
Inspect windshields, windows, doors, emergency exits, hood mechanisms, interior components, flooring, seat covers, and paneling for damage or defects.
Identify potential water leaks, missing seam caulking, damaged gaskets, or other body-related concerns.
Perform PDI repair and correction duties when wreck repairs or main body shop repair work are not available.
Communicate unresolved PDI issues with the QA team.
Record completed tasks in the Access database and update the PDI delivery schedule.
Maintain accurate documentation for repair orders and warranty checklists.
Follow procedures for warranty repairs, parts billing, and tracking ordered parts.
Submit daily work reports to the QA team.
Support shop organization and participate in 5S initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental goals, shop operations, and company needs.