Job Summary

We are looking for a skilled and detail-oriented *Panel Beater* to join our bodyshop team. The successful candidate will assess and repair vehicle body damage, restore vehicles to their original condition, and maintain high quality and safety standards in all work.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

* Inspect vehicles upon arrival, assess damage, estimate repair costs, and propose appropriate repair plans
* Remove damaged panels, trim, and components to access repair areas
* Use metalworking techniques (hammering, planishing, stretching) to straighten and reshape damaged panels
* Weld, bond, or rivet new panels or replacement sections as needed
* Use filler, sanding, and finishing techniques to smooth surfaces and prepare for repainting
* Work with alignment and chassis straightening equipment when structural damage is present
* Reinstall parts, trim, windows, and other components, ensuring proper fit and finish
* Liaise with paint technicians to hand over prepared surfaces
* Maintain accurate records of repairs, parts used, and time taken
* Ensure all safety procedures and workshop guidelines are followed (PPE, ventilation, handling of materials)
* Collaborate with colleagues (estimators, paint shop, workshop) to meet job schedules and customer expectations
* Assist with diagnosis of damage in complex repair cases
* Stay up to date with best practices, new materials (e.g. aluminium, composites), repair technologies and manufacturer repair methods

Required Skills & Experience

* Proven experience as a Panel Beater or body repair technician
* Ability to read drawings, repair instructions, and technical specifications
* Proficiency with welding (MIG, TIG, spot welding) and bonding techniques
* Skilled in metalworking, filler application, sanding, and shaping techniques
* Good mechanical understanding (to remove/install parts safely)
* Attention to detail and high quality standards
* Good problem solving and diagnosis skills
* Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
* Good communication skills, able to coordinate with paint shop, estimators, and clients
* Physical fitness – the role involves lifting, bending, standing for long periods
* Full driving licence is often desirable
* Formal qualifications (e.g. NVQ in Vehicle Body Repair, City & Guilds, or equivalent) are advantageous

Reporting & Structure

* Reports to: Bodyshop Manager / Workshop Manager
* Works alongside: estimators, paint shop, detailers, mechanical technicians
* May be required to supervise apprentices or junior staff, depending on seniority

Working Conditions

* Workshop / bodyshop environment with exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and metalworking operations
* Use of PPE (gloves, respirators, eye protection, hearing protection) required
* Overtime / weekend work may occasionally be needed during busy periods
* Hours: typically Monday to Friday, possibly with Saturday shifts (depending on business needs)

Salary & CompensationMarket Benchmarks & Ranges

Salary for a Panel Beater in the UK (and particularly London / South) can vary significantly based on experience, location, employer size, skills (e.g. working with aluminium, advanced structural repair), and how busy / high end the shop is.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £35,000.00-£55,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

First Class Automotive

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