Description
Customize and refinish vehicle bodies, fabricating and installing custom panels, trim, and finishes to customer specifications.
- • File, grind, sand, and smooth custom bodywork and seams using power and hand tools.
- • Sand surfaces and mask panels for custom paint, graphics, or coatings.
- • Follow build plans and customer specifications to determine modifications and timelines.
- • Cut body panels and install body kits, flares, and spoilers using fasteners or welding.
- • Mask and protect adjacent surfaces during fabrication and paint; remove masking and clean after work.
- • Prime and paint customized surfaces with spray guns, including multi-stage and specialty finishes.
- • Mix resins and hardeners for fiberglass or composite custom parts.
- • Set vehicles on alignment equipment to ensure panel fit, wheel clearance, and stance.
- • Fill and smooth low spots with body filler or solder for a seamless appearance.
- • Fabricate, fit, and weld custom panels and brackets; grind welds smooth.
- • Shape metal using hammers and dollies to refine contours and body lines.
- • Identify plastics used on the vehicle to select proper repair and customization methods.
- • Prepare custom build estimates and work plans based on customer requests and vehicle condition.
- • Metal-finish minor imperfections using picks, punches, and planishing tools.
- • Remove and reinstall trim, glass, lighting, and interior components for access and fitment.
- • Maintain clean, safe work areas; remove dust and debris between stages.
- • Aim headlights and adjust panel gaps and accessories after customization.
- • Heat-form plastic components with hot-air tools or hot water to achieve desired shapes.
- • Lay up fiberglass or carbon fiber to specified thickness for custom body features.
- • Cut openings for vents, scoops, or custom windows using templates and power tools.
- • Install and seal custom windows, vinyl roofs, and exterior trim using adhesives and fasteners.
- • Consult with customers to define styling, finish, and performance goals; interpret design specs.
- • Install or replace glass and weatherstripping as part of custom work.
- • Measure, mark, and cut vinyl or fabric materials for roof or accent installations.
- • Inspect finished vehicles for fit, finish, and operation; road-test for clearance and handling.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
