Automotive Refinishing Technicians work on the surfaces of motor vehicles, primarily in restoring vehicle finishes once body work has been completed. Some of the duties that an automotive refinishing technician completes include: removing layers of old coatings; matching colours and mixing paints; preparing surfaces for painting by spot filling, sanding, and masking; applying primers, primer surfacers, sealers, base coats, single-stage and clear coats; cleaning and polishing painted surfaces; and applying protective coatings. Many Automotive Refinishing Technicians work in close contact with Auto Body and Collision Technicians who tend to work in multi-shop companies, independent or dealership auto body and collision shops. Automotive refinishing duties may overlap with Auto Body and Collision Technicians’ duties, particularly in small shops. In larger places of employment, Automotive Refinishing Technicians likely work as specialists after body repairs have been completed. They may also work with estimators, partspersons, detailers, preppers, glass installers and production managers. While they may work as part of the repair team, Automotive Refinishing Technicians tend to work independently. They may work in the automotive, truck and transport, commercial transport, heavy equipment, motorcycle, specialty vehicle, aviation and aerospace sectors. For detailed information on the scope of knowledge and skills taught and assessed in this program refer to the Program Outline, available on the SkilledTradesBC website.

Individuals who wish to begin an apprenticeship in this program must register with SkilledTradesBC along with their sponsor. Application forms for all programs are available from the SkilledTradesBC website. Online registration is also available for most programs through the SkilledTradesBC website. Those who wish to challenge the Automotive Refinishing Technician certification must complete the Automotive Refinishing Technician Challenge Application and submit it to SkilledTradesBC. Challenge applications are assessed for proof of workplace hours and scope of experience prior to acceptance of the individual into the Challenge pathway.