How to Attract and Retain Top Collision Repair Technicians in Today’s Market

Experienced collision repair technician performing auto body work as part of a well-staffed repair team

If you're a collision center owner or manager, you’ve likely felt the heat: qualified technicians are in short supply, and the competition for talent is fierce.

But the best shops aren’t just finding great people, they’re keeping them. Here’s how to do both.

 

What Today’s Technicians Are Looking For

To attract top talent, you need to offer more than a paycheck. The best techs look for:

  • Workplace stability

  • Clean, well-equipped shops

  • Fair scheduling and overtime policies

  • Clear communication and respect

  • Opportunities for growth and certification

 

What You Can Do Right Now

1. Promote Your Shop’s Culture

Technicians talk. Highlight what makes your shop a great place to work, whether it’s team lunches, updated equipment, or a no-drama environment.

2. Offer More Than Just Wages

Sign-on bonuses help, but so does investing in I-CAR training, offering flexible time off, or even providing uniforms and tools.

3. Streamline Your Hiring Process

Good techs don’t stay on the market long. If your hiring process takes more than a week, you're probably losing talent to faster-moving competitors.

4. Work with a Specialized Staffing Partner

We connect shops with technicians who are pre-qualified, experienced, and ready to work and we keep them engaged and supported throughout the assignment.

 

Retention Starts at Day One

The first week on the job is crucial. Make sure every new hire:

  • Gets a proper orientation

  • Feels welcomed by the team

  • Has clear expectations and goals

When technicians feel respected and set up to succeed, they stay longer. 

Let’s Help You Build and Keep a Stronger Team

Want to attract high-performing collision repair professionals without wasting time and money?

Let’s talk about how our recruiting process can give your shop a competitive hiring edge.

 

Contact us today to start building your next great hire.

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How to Build a Scalable Collision Center Team for Busy Seasons