A Truck 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 trucks structural integrity and appearance are restored to their original condition. QUALIFICATIONSMatricQualified Panel beater (Trade Test with red seal certification)3-5 years experience in panel beating, preferably with heavy-duty trucksSKILLSExpertise in metalwork, welding and fabricationProficiency in using panel beating tools and equipmentGood hand-eye coordination and manual dexterityAbility to read and interpret technical diagrams and repair manualsPhysical strength and stamina to work with heavy materials and equipmentAttention to detail for precise repairAbility to assess damage and develop repair strategiesCreativity in fabricating parts or finding alternative repair methodsEffectively communicate and collaborate with others REQUIREMENTSRead the job card/quotation to establish what work needs to be doneInspect damaged trucks to determine the extent of structural, body, mechanical or interior damageAssist the Estimator with the time and cost of repairs and provide detailed quotesAssess the vehicle against the job card/quotation and establish what parts are to be orderedAssess for additional damageOrder the necessary parts and follow up when neededAssess that the parts ordered are correct and not damagedFabricate parts when original components are unavailable or too costly to replaceEnsure that allCarefully disassemble damaged sections of the truck to access affected areasReassemble parts, ensuring all components fit correctly and function as intendedStraighten and reshape bent panels and frames using various tools such as hammers, dollies and hydraulic pressesCut and weld replacement panels or frames as neededRepair or replace damaged truck parts, including fenders, doors, bumpers and other body componentsEnsure that all panel alignment and fitment of parts are correctPerform MIG, TIG or oxy-acetylene welding to join metal partsSand, grind and smooth repaired areas to ensure a seamless finishApply primers, paints and protective coatings to the repaired areasConduct inspection of work executed to ensure it meets the required standardsConduct a roadworthiness check