Purpose of the Job
The Panel Beater is responsible for repairing and restoring the bodywork of heavy-duty trucks after they have been damaged due to accidents, wear and tear, or other incidents. This role involves working with large vehicles, requiring specialised skills in metalwork, welding, and finishing techniques to ensure the truck's structural integrity and appearance are restored to their original condition.
Key Responsibilities
Damage Assessment and Parts Coordination
Read the job card/quotation to establish what work needs to be done
Inspect damaged trucks to determine the extent of structural, body, mechanical or interior damage
Assist the Estimator with the time and cost of repairs and provide detailed quotes
Assess the vehicle against the job card/quotation and establish what parts are to be ordered
Assess for additional damage
Order the necessary parts and follow up when needed
Assess that the parts ordered are correct and not damaged
Fabricate parts when original components are unavailable or too costly to replace
Ensure that all parts to be painted go with the vehicle to the paint shop
Repair and Assembly Quality
Carefully disassemble damaged sections of the truck to access affected areas
Reassemble parts, ensuring all components fit correctly and function as intended
Straighten and reshape bent panels and frames using various tools such as hammers, dollies and hydraulic presses
Cut and weld replacement panels or frames as needed
Repair or replace damaged truck parts, including fenders, doors, bumpers and other body components
Ensure that all panel alignment and fitment of parts are correct
Perform MIG, TIG or oxy-acetylene welding to join metal parts
Sand, grind and smooth repaired areas to ensure a seamless finish
Apply primers, paints and protective coatings to the repaired areas
Conduct inspection of work executed to ensure it meets the required standards
Conduct a roadworthiness check
Team Coordination and Professional Conduct
Conduct quality checks on the assistant's work
Advise, assist, teach and manage the assistant
Liaise with the Foreman, Estimator, Manager, and CPD to ensure productive workflow to and from your work area
Maintain and calibrate panel beating tools and equipment
Ensure that productivity and efficiency are at an acceptable standard
Assist in relevant operations/operational functions as required
Minimum Requirements
Grade 12 (Matric)
Qualified Panel Beater (Trade test with Red Seal certification)
3+ years' experience in panel beating, preferably with heavy-duty trucks
Skills Requirements
Expertise in metalwork, welding and fabrication
Proficiency in using panel beating tools and equipment
Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams and repair manuals
Physical strength and stamina to work with heavy materials and equipment
Attention to detail for precise repair
Ability to assess damage and develop repair strategies
Creativity in fabricating parts or finding alternative repair methods
Effectively communicate and collaborate with others