The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for automotive body and glass repairers will grow at an average pace through 2028. Demand for collision repair services is expected to remain strong as the number of cars in the nation grows. This demand, paired with technology that will require new skills, translates into a healthy job market for those willing to undergo the training needed.

Changing technology also plays a role in the industry's outlook—both positive and negative. New automobile designs have body parts made of steel alloys, aluminum, and plastics—materials that are more time consuming to work with. In many cases, such materials are more prone to damage, increasing the need for body repairs. On the other hand, new technology such as air bags has also prompted more cars that are involved in accidents to be declared a total loss (since the cost of repairing the car is higher than the cost of a brand-new vehicle). As technology and materials become more high-tech, they also are becoming more expensive. This has caused repair shops to consolidate to save money and many people to skip repairing their vehicles because of high insurance deductibles and/or the high cost of repairs. These developments have reduced job opportunities to some extent for automobile collision repairers.

The automobile collision repair business is not greatly affected by changes in economic conditions. Major body damage must be repaired to keep a vehicle in safe operating condition. During an economic downturn, however, people tend to postpone minor repairs until their budgets can accommodate the expense. Nevertheless, body repairers are seldom laid off. Instead, when business is bad, employers hire fewer new workers. During a recession, inexperienced workers face strong competition for entry-level jobs. People with formal training in repair work and automobile mechanics, as well as certification, are likely to have the best job prospects in such times.

Automobile Collision Repairers

Overview

Introduction

Quick Facts

Earnings

Work Environment

Outlook

Related Professions

Automobile Sales Workers

Automobile Service Technicians

Automotive Dealership Owners