Panel Beater

Panel beaters restore and realign vehicle bodies after collisions, working to OEM repair methods to return vehicles to pre-accident condition while meeting safety, quality and compliance standards.

Core Responsibilities

• Damage assessment, body alignment checks and repair planning

• Removal/realignment of panels, chassis components and bolt-on parts

• Metal shaping, panel beating, filler work and surface preparation

• MIG/TIG/spot welding; steel, aluminium and plastic repairs

• Rivet/bonding systems, corrosion protection and quality control

• Coordination with estimators and refinishers; documentation and job costing

• ADAS/EV awareness: pre/post scans and referral for calibration as required

Skills & Tooling

• Measuring systems, jigs/frame machines, pulls and anchoring

• OEM data platforms, repair procedures and tolerances

• Plastic repair techniques; heat, weld, bond and finish

• Safe use of grinders, sanders, welders and dust extraction

Qualifications & Requirements

• Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology (AUR32120) or equivalent (typically via a 3–4 year apprenticeship)

• 2–5+ years’ collision/body shop experience (dealer or independent)

• Demonstrated capability in structural and non-structural repairs

• WHS compliance, hazardous substances handling and repair documentation

Desirable Training & Certifications

• I-CAR courses (structural, aluminium, plastics, ADAS)

• Aluminium repair accreditation; EV/high-voltage safety

• Estimating platforms (Audatex/Glass’s) familiarity

Licences

• Manual driver’s licence (forklift ticket advantageous)

Professional Attributes

• Accuracy and attention to detail

• Time management and workflow coordination

• Clear customer and team communication

Migration note (if relevant): ANZSCO 324111 Panelbeater; skills assessment commonly via TRA; some regions may offer DAMA concessions; employer sponsorship usually requires recent, verifiable experience and English proficiency.