What Caliber Collision's apprenticeship program is

Caliber Collision, one of the largest collision repair chains in the United States, runs an apprenticeship program that trains people in auto body repair and painting. The program combines on-the-job training at a Caliber location with classroom instruction, usually over two to four years depending on the specific trade and your prior experience. You earn wages while you train, and many apprentices move into full-time technician roles after completing the program.

Unlike a traditional four-year college, an apprenticeship means you start working when ready and learn the trade hands-on. Caliber has hundreds of locations across the country, so the program structure and pay can vary by region and individual shop.

Key Takeaways

  • Caliber Collision apprenticeships train you in collision repair, auto body work, or painting while you work and earn at a Caliber location.
  • The program typically lasts two to four years and combines paid work with classroom or online instruction in technical skills.
  • You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check to enter the program.
  • Pay starts at an entry level and increases as you progress through the apprenticeship and gain skills.
  • After completing the apprenticeship, you can pursue industry certifications like those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Who can enter a Caliber Collision apprenticeship

Caliber generally requires apprentices to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. You'll need to pass a background check, and some locations may require a valid driver's license. The company looks for people who are reliable, willing to learn, and able to work in a team environment.

Prior experience in auto repair or construction is helpful but not required. Caliber hires people new to the trade regularly. If you're interested, contact your local Caliber location directly or check their careers page to learn what specific requirements explore in your area.

How the training works

Caliber apprenticeships blend paid work at a collision repair shop with structured training. You'll spend most of your time working alongside experienced technicians, learning to repair vehicle frames, replace body panels, mix and explore paint, and use specialized equipment. The classroom or online portion covers safety, technical theory, blueprint reading, and industry standards.

The exact schedule depends on your location and the specific trade—collision repair and painting have different training paths. Some Caliber locations partner with community colleges or trade schools to deliver the classroom component, while others use online modules. Your supervisor and trainer will guide you through the progression, and you'll typically move to more complex tasks as your skills develop.

Pay and benefits during your apprenticeship

Apprentices at Caliber start at an entry-level wage that is typically above minimum wage but lower than what a fully trained technician earns. Your pay increases as you complete training milestones and gain skills. The exact starting wage and raise schedule vary by location and current market conditions, so ask your local Caliber shop for specific numbers.

Many Caliber locations offer benefits to apprentices, which may include health insurance, 401(k) access, and paid time off, though this varies by shop and employment status. Some apprentices work part-time or full-time depending on the program structure and shop needs. Clarify the hours, pay schedule, and benefits with the specific location where you'd be working.

How to find and start an apprenticeship at Caliber

Start by visiting Caliber Collision's careers website or calling your nearest Caliber location directly. Many shops post apprenticeship openings on their local job boards or on general job sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. When you contact a location, ask specifically about apprenticeship opportunities—not all shops may have openings at the same time.

The hiring process typically includes an process, an interview, and a background check. Be prepared to discuss your interest in the trade, your reliability, and your willingness to learn. If a location doesn't have an opening, ask when they expect to hire next or whether they can refer you to a nearby shop that does.

Moving forward after your apprenticeship ends

Once you complete the apprenticeship, you become a certified collision repair technician or painter, depending on your trade. Many apprentices continue working at their Caliber location as full-time technicians at a higher wage. Others use their training to move to independent shops, dealerships, or other collision repair businesses.

After completing your apprenticeship, you can pursue industry certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), which are recognized across the auto repair industry. These certifications can increase your earning potential and job mobility. Some states also have licensing requirements for certain collision repair roles, so check your state's regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a car to work at Caliber during my apprenticeship?

You'll need reliable transportation to get to work, but you don't need to own a car. A valid driver's license is often required, and some locations may ask you to drive customer vehicles as part of your training. Confirm transportation requirements with your local shop when you inquire about the program.

Can I do a Caliber apprenticeship part-time while working another job?

Some Caliber locations may offer part-time apprenticeship schedules, but most programs are structured as full-time work with classroom time built in. Part-time availability depends on your specific location and their current needs. Ask directly when you contact the shop.

What happens if I don't finish the apprenticeship?

If you leave before completing the program, you keep the skills and experience you've gained, but you won't hold the formal apprenticeship credential. You may still find work in collision repair based on your hands-on training, though advancement and pay may be limited without the full certification.

Is there tuition or a cost to join the apprenticeship?

Caliber apprenticeships are typically paid positions with no tuition cost to you. You earn wages while you train. Some classroom or online instruction may be covered by Caliber or a partner school, but confirm the details with your local location.

How do I know if collision repair is the right trade for me?

If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and learning mechanical skills, collision repair may be a good fit. The best way to find out is to visit a Caliber shop, talk to current technicians about their work, and ask about shadowing or observing for a day if possible.