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JC
Jay's Chevrolet GMC
Dealership Body Shop Manager
Career Insights for Retail Store Manager
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Based on Ohio data
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What they do
A Retail Store Manager manages a retail store, either an independent business or a store that is part of a large retail chain. Reviews and monitors merchandise sales, inventory and prices, and directs advertising and promotions. Supervises sales, warehouse, cleaning, maintenance and security staff and prepares work schedules. Responsible for resolving customer complaints.
$48,878 / year median in Ohio
+5% projected growth
Job Description
Overview The Body Shop Manager is responsible for the overall operation, performance, profitability, and customer satisfaction of the dealership's collision repair/body shop. This position leads the body shop team, manages the repair process from estimate through delivery, works closely with insurance companies and customers, and ensures repairs are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate is an experienced automotive collision professional and strong leader who can manage people, production, customer relationships, and financial performance while maintaining a positive, team-oriented work environment. Essential Responsibilities Body Shop Operations Manage the day-to-day operations of the collision repair facility. Oversee the complete repair process from initial estimate through final delivery. Ensure vehicles are repaired according to manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and dealership quality expectations. Monitor workflow, production schedules, repair timelines, and technician productivity. Identify and resolve production bottlenecks and delays. Ensure proper use, maintenance, and organization of equipment, tools, and shop facilities. Maintain a clean, safe, organized, and professional work environment. Leadership & Team Management Hire, train, coach, motivate, and evaluate body shop employees. Supervise technicians, estimators, detailers, body repair personnel, and other assigned staff. Establish clear performance expectations and hold team members accountable. Schedule employees and manage staffing levels based on business volume. Promote teamwork, communication, professionalism, and a customer-first culture. Conduct regular meetings to review production, quality, safety, and customer service goals. Estimating & Insurance Relations Oversee accurate and complete repair estimates. Work directly with insurance adjusters and representatives to negotiate supplements and obtain repair approvals. Maintain strong relationships with insurance companies, third-party administrators, and referral partners. Ensure all supplements are properly documented and submitted in a timely manner. Monitor repair orders for accuracy, profitability, and completeness. Ensure proper documentation and photographs are maintained throughout the repair process. Customer Service Provide exceptional customer service throughout the repair process. Communicate repair status, timelines, delays, and additional repairs to customers. Handle customer concerns and complaints professionally and promptly. Ensure customers understand the repair process, estimated completion dates, and final charges. Follow up with customers after repairs to ensure satisfaction. Build repeat and referral business through outstanding customer experiences. Financial & Performance Management Monitor body shop sales, gross profit, expenses, and overall profitability. Track key performance indicators including labor hours, cycle time, touch time, efficiency, productivity, CSI, and gross profit. Review repair orders for proper labor, parts, materials, sublet, and miscellaneous charges. Control expenses and minimize unnecessary costs and waste. Monitor parts ordering, returns, supplements, and inventory. Work with dealership management to establish and achieve monthly and annual goals. Quality & Compliance Ensure all repairs meet dealership quality standards and applicable manufacturer requirements. Maintain compliance with OSHA, EPA, state, local, insurance, and other applicable regulations. Ensure proper safety procedures are followed by all employees. Maintain required certifications, licenses, and training. Monitor repair quality and conduct final quality-control inspections before vehicle delivery. Ensure proper disposal and handling of hazardous materials and shop waste. Parts & Vendor Management Coordinate with the Parts Department to ensure timely availability of repair parts. Verify parts accuracy and quality before installation. Work with outside vendors and sublet providers when necessary. Maintain professional relationships with parts suppliers, rental companies, towing companies, and other business partners. Help minimize repair delays caused by parts availability or vendor issues. Business Development Develop strategies to increase collision repair business and market share. Build relationships with insurance companies, local businesses, fleet accounts, and community organizations. Promote the dealership's collision center through customer outreach, referrals, and community involvement. Identify opportunities to improve customer retention and increase repeat business. Support dealership marketing and promotional initiatives related to the Body Shop. Qualifications Previous experience managing or supervising an automotive collision/body shop preferred. Strong knowledge of collision repair procedures, estimating, parts, and vehicle construction. Experience working with insurance companies and insurance claims. Strong leadership and team-management skills. Excellent communication and customer-service abilities. Strong organizational and time-management skills. Ability to manage multiple repair orders and priorities simultaneously. Strong understanding of automotive repair profitability and financial performance. Proficient computer skills and ability to learn dealership/body shop management systems. Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Experience & Certifications 3+ years of automotive collision repair/body shop management experience preferred. Experience with estimating and repair management systems. I-CAR training or certifications preferred. OEM collision repair training/certifications preferred. Experience with CCC ONE, Mitchell, Audatex, or similar estimating systems preferred. Experience working with major insurance carriers preferred. Key Performance Expectations The Body Shop Manager will be expected to: Meet or exceed monthly sales and profitability goals. Maintain strong customer satisfaction and CSI scores. Improve and maintain efficient cycle times. Maximize technician productivity and shop capacity. Maintain high repair quality and minimize comebacks. Develop and retain a strong, productive team. Maintain positive relationships with insurance companies and customers. Control expenses and improve overall department profitability. Maintain a safe, clean, and professional facility. Consistently represent the dealership in a professional manner. Compensation & Benefits Compensation and benefits may include: Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement plan Paid time off and holidays Training and professional development opportunities Opportunities for advancement Employee discounts on dealership services and parts Compensation and benefits will be based on experience, qualifications, and dealership policies. Work Environment This position operates in a busy automotive dealership collision repair environment and requires regular interaction with customers, insurance representatives, technicians, vendors, and dealership management. The Body Shop Manager must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities, and spending time both in the office and throughout the body shop. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk throughout the shop for extended periods. Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials and equipment. Ability to safely navigate an automotive repair facility. Ability to work around automotive repair equipment, vehicles, tools, and shop materials. Ability to work in varying temperatures and shop conditions.
Pay:
$60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per yearBenefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insuranceWork Location:
In personBenefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) Plans
- Professional Development
- Other Retirement and Savings