Panelbeater at Value Logistics

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