What is a Panel Technician?
A Vehicle Damage Panel Technician works in the collision repair workshop, demonstrating expert working knowledge in relation to the removal, repair and replacement of vehicle body panels to vehicle manufacturer specifications.
The vehicles can include cars and light commercial vehicles. A Panel Technician should be able to work independently and as part of a team, following a defined process, using their skills to correctly identify the different body panel types, and use the correct repair tools to carry out the work to the highest possible standard.
The equipment you will use includes jigs, resistance welding equipment, riveting and bonding tools, as well as reinforced plastic carbon fibre diagnostic ultrasound tools.Â
Your responsibilities
- Assessing damage and deciding how to repair it
- Removing damaged panels or parts for repair
- Smoothing out minor dents in panels
- Filling small holes or rusted areas with filler
- Making body panels and sections, and welding them into place
- Refinishing the repair to match surrounding areas
- Keeping a record of all work completed to show customers
What You'll need
Core skills
- Able to work to tight deadlines
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work in a team and use own initiative
- Ability to use specialist equipment
- Awareness of safety procedures
- Good manual skills
What You'll Gain
Transferable skills
- Health and safety knowledge
- Problem solving and self-organisation skills
- Ability to work with others and use own initiative
- Time management skills
What You'll Use
Key skills
English
- Reading health and safety manuals
- Follow written and verbal directions
Maths
- Working with measurements
- Interpreting data
IT
- Using basic IT skills
- Manage emails
Role opportunities
These are some possible roles you may consider in your career journey. Discuss with your Inspiro Coach for further guidance.
Bodyshop roles
Paint technician
Panel technician
Mechanical and Electrical Trim Technician
Senior Paint Technician
Senior Panel Technician
Senior M.E.T Technician
Vehicle Damage Assessor
Workshop Controller
Bodyshop Manager
Other related routes
National Careers Website
The National Careers website is a government database that provides information for a job you are looking to explore.
Automotive Sector Roles
Use our Sector Roles map to see if there is a role within your chosen sector that you are interested in.
Resources
Career Development Handbook
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career development handbook
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