Restore, Repair, and Redefine What a Vehicle Can Be
Job Overview
Autobody and Collision Technicians repair and restore vehicles after damage from collisions, weather, or wear and tear. This includes working on structural and body components, surface finishing, glass replacement, and interior restoration.
Technicians may specialize in areas like frame straightening, refinishing, surface preparation, and damage appraisal. The role blends technical skills with craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Job at a Glance
Demand Outlook
The demand for Autobody and Collision Technicians is expected to remain steady over the next several years. In Nova Scotia, a significant portion of the current workforce is aged 55 or older, which means retirements will open up more job opportunities.
This trade is also known for its entrepreneurial potential — many technicians are self-employed or operate their own shops. Most jobs are full-time, permanent positions offering strong income potential.
Education and Credentials
- Certification: Autobody and Collision Technician is a compulsory certified trade under the Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act in Nova Scotia. You must be certified to work in this trade.
- Training Provider:
- Nova Scotia Community College — Motor Vehicle Body Repair
This program teaches welding, structural repairs, surface preparation, frame alignment, and refinishing techniques. Students also learn to use electronic estimating tools and paint-matching systems.
- Nova Scotia Community College — Motor Vehicle Body Repair
- Regulating Body:
Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency
2021 Brunswick Street, PO Box 578, Halifax, NS B3J 2S9
Phone: 1-800-494-5651 / (902) 424-0717
Email: apprenticeship@novascotia.ca
Website ➜
Essential Skills
- Numeracy
- Critical Thinking
- Job Task Planning and Organizing
Learn More About Essential Skills ➜
What It Is
Typical Tasks and Duties
Autobody and Collision Technicians often:
- Assess and plan repairs based on damage reports
- Remove, repair, or replace damaged panels and structural parts
- Straighten bent frames and unibody structures using alignment equipment
- Fill dents using body filler or soldering tools
- Sand, file, grind, and prepare surfaces for refinishing
- Mask and paint surfaces, blending and matching colours precisely
- Repair or replace windows, windshields, and interior parts
- Perform final inspections and test drives to ensure repairs meet manufacturer and safety standards
Specialties
- Frame and Structural Repair
- Refinishing and Paint Matching
- Surface Preparation
- Sheet Metal Work
- Damage Appraisal
- Glass and Interior Component Replacement
What It Takes to Succeed
Certification and Requirements
✔ Certificate of Qualification is mandatory in Nova Scotia
✔ Must complete apprenticeship and pass certification exam
Key Skills and Attributes
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Creativity and attention to detail
- Patience and steady hand coordination
- Physical strength and agility
- Spatial awareness and ability to interpret technical drawings
- Ability to visualize and restore damaged structures
Programs Offered
🎓 Nova Scotia Community College – Motor Vehicle Body Repair
Explore the Program ➜
Where It Can Lead You
Career Pathways
With experience and further specialization, Autobody Technicians can advance to:
- Shop Supervisor
- Estimator / Appraiser
- Automotive Paint Specialist
- Collision Repair Instructor
- Independent Shop Owner
Related Roles
- Automotive Refinishing Technician
- Automotive Glass Technician
- Insurance Appraiser
- Automotive Estimator
- Automotive Restyler
Future Trends and Impacts
- Increased use of aluminum and composite materials is changing how technicians repair and refinish vehicles.
- Advanced safety and sensor systems (ADAS) require technicians to adapt to new calibration standards.
- Technicians who stay current with repair technologies (like plastic welding, aluminum repair, and EV body components) will be in highest demand.