Choosing the right Auto Body Shop Manager sets the department up for success. But what does it take to succeed in the role? In this article, we’ll outline tasks and duties of an  Auto Body Shop Manager and what you should look for in candidates as you hire.

What is an Auto Body Shop Manager?

An Auto Body Shop Manager directs the body shop, including the other employees within the department. The manager is in charge of bringing in business and developing customer relationships, ensuring profitability, and maintaining quality standards.¹ 

Additionally, the manager is also in charge of overseeing all administrative and operational duties, such as managing daily schedules, phone calls, and keeping records. In the day-to-day operations, they will help provide estimates, speak with customers, manage inventory, coordinate with technicians, and adhere to all industry regulations. They are essential liaisons between  customers and employees.² 

What Does an Auto Body Shop Manager Do?

If you’re looking to hire an Auto Body Shop Manager, you can use the following list in your job posting. Alternatively, if you’re looking to get a job as an Auto Body Shop Manager, be sure that you have proficiency in the following areas to have the best chance at landing a job: 

• Set goals for the department and put operational procedures in place to meet those goals. 
• Hire and train team members, and monitor employee performance. 
• Create and adhere to an operating budget. 
• Develop strong and loyal customer relationships. 
• Provide fair estimates to customers for repairs. 
• Liaise with the parts department to ensure inventory is in order. 
• Ensure that all vehicle repair progress is following necessary timelines. 
• Handle customer complaints and check completed work. 
• Ensure the department adheres to all safety regulations, including demonstrating knowledge of OSHA and other related laws.¹
• Serve as employee supervisor. Oversee all daily operations of the body shop. 
• Develop efficient workflows and processes to ensure excellence.
• Collaborate with insurance companies when necessary. 
• Communicate clearly and in a professional manner.
• Stay up-to-date with industry developments and trends.²

How Can Someone Become an Auto Body Shop Manager?

While individuals who are eligible to become  Auto Body Shop Managers can have an array of skills gained through various professional paths, there are a handful of credentials that are necessary in order to execute the job of a manager effectively: 

• A high school diploma or GED. 
• Trade or technical school experience. 
• Previous experience in many areas of auto repair. 
• Leadership skills.
• Business skills (including budgeting, record keeping, hiring, and management). 

Some additional qualifications that can lead to success in this role include knowing how to use relevant software like CCC One® or getting I-CAR or Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.²

There are some additional education programs that can provide helpful background information in collision repair services. With that in mind, it’s advised to have several entry and mid-level roles before becoming a manager. Typically, employees will work their way up in the body shop to take on a leadership role first and, eventually, a managerial role when they have gained the experience and knowledge needed to lead the team.³ 

What to Look For When Hiring an Auto Body Shop Manager

When hiring for an Auto Body Shop Manager, it’s important to find someone with strong leadership and managerial skills, as they will be the people-manager on the team. Additionally, this individual will need extensive auto knowledge, as well as a keen sense of business organization in order to manage finances, budget, and other administrative tasks. 

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Sources 

1. Autojobs.com. “Auto Body Shop Manager Job Description.” Autojobs.com. Retrieved June 17, 2024.  https://www.autojobs.com/jobs/auto-body-shop-manager-job-description/ 
2. Body Shop Jobs. “Auto Body Manager.” Body Shop Jobs. Retrieved June 17, 2024. https://bodyshopjobs.com/Auto-Body-Manager 
3. Universal Technical Institute. 2022. “How to become an Auto Body Shop Manager.” Universal Technical Institute. Retrieved June 17, 2024. https://www.uti.edu/blog/collision/body-shop-manager