Damage technician, repair

What does a repair damage technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A repair damage technician mainly works with assessing, repairing, and restoring damaged vehicles, often after accidents or other incidents causing bodywork damage. Tasks include disassembly and reassembly of body parts, alignment, welding, and component replacement. The profession also involves analyzing the extent of damage, preparing cost estimates, and collaborating with insurance companies and other workshop roles. The work environment is often workshop-based and can involve noise, dust, and physical exertion, requiring good physical condition and precision.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for repair damage technicians has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 32,200 SEK per month, which increased to 33 400 SEK in 2023. The latest measured average salary for 2024 is 35 700 SEK per month, representing an approximate 11% increase over the three-year period. Factors driving this increase include sustained high demand for skilled workers in vehicle repair and an increased focus on technologically advanced repairs. The shortage of experienced repair damage technicians has also led employers to raise wages to retain and attract staff. Overall, the trend indicates that the profession is valued higher in the job market, especially for those who are certified and have a few years of experience.

Repair damage technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 700 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage (average, hourly employed): 215 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 35 800 SEK/month, data for women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Specific statistics are lacking, but variations may occur depending on location and demand

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a repair damage technician usually involves completing the vocational program in vehicle and transport with a bodywork and painting specialization, followed by practical training and possibly industry-specific certifications. The profession requires good technical understanding, practical problem-solving skills, and often several years of workshop experience. Opportunities for further education and specialization are available for those wishing to expand their skills.

• High school education: Vehicle and transport program, 3 years
• Certifications: For example, from MRF or equivalent
• Practical training/apprenticeship: Often part of the education, commonly with a mentorship period
• Further education: Possible to specialize in advanced repairs or new materials
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good problem-solving ability

Common benefits and compensations

For repair damage technicians, it is common to have collective agreement-based benefits such as occupational pension, sick pay, and insurance. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, further training, and bonuses linked to performance or certification. In some cases, flexibility in working hours and access to modern workshop equipment are considered advantages in the profession.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a repair damage technician is characterized by relatively high demand, but recruitment difficulties exist as many leave the profession and the industry struggles to find qualified personnel. Technological advancements in the automotive industry increasingly require ongoing training, especially regarding electric vehicle repairs and advanced safety systems. Competition for jobs is limited for those with the right education and experience. Physical strain, precision requirements, and the ability to handle stressful periods are common challenges.

Tips for those who want to become a repair damage technician

To succeed as a repair damage technician, it is good to have a genuine technical interest and a desire to continually learn new things. Accuracy is crucial, as small mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to fix, so practicing methodical work during training is an advantage. Good physical condition helps, as the job often involves heavy lifting and working in demanding positions. The ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues, customers, and insurance companies is also essential for job satisfaction. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself in new technologies, such as electric vehicles and modern safety systems, greatly expand job opportunities. Problem-solving skills and patience are qualities that often determine how smoothly and efficiently repairs can be performed. Taking the initiative for internships and networking during training increases the chances of a successful start in the profession.

Key facts about repair damage technicians

• Education level: High school diploma with a focus on vehicles
• Work environment: Workshop, often noisy and physically demanding
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Job openings: 1437 within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Repair of modern and electric vehicles

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a repair damage technician, there are opportunities to advance to senior technician, lead assembler, or workshop supervisor. For those wishing to broaden their skills, further education to become a damage assessor, trainer, or technical specialist in areas such as electric vehicles is available. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Despite some staff turnover and technological shifts, the shortage of qualified repair damage technicians is expected to persist, making the profession a stable choice for those seeking long-term career prospects.

Frequently asked questions about repair damage technicians

• What does a repair damage technician earn?
  - The average salary is 35 700 SEK per month according to current statistics.
• What education is required to become a repair damage technician?
  - Most commonly, it is the vocational program in vehicle and transport with a bodywork specialization, combined with practical training.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Yes, demand for repair damage technicians is high and many job openings are available within the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is mostly performed in a workshop environment, which can involve noise, physical labor, and stressful periods.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, technical interest, problem-solving skills, and good physical condition are central qualities.
• Is further education possible?
  - Yes, there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as electric vehicles or take on leadership roles.
• What is the gender distribution?
  - Salary data is primarily available for men; statistics for women are not available.