Metal Fabricator – Body Shop in North Mankato, Minnesota at Palmer Bus Financial Management Inc

PBS Body Shop is seeking a skilled and dependable Metal Fabricator / Body Shop Technician to join our team. We are committed to maintaining a safe and reliable fleet of school buses, and we need someone who takes pride in quality craftsmanship, safety, and attention to detail. If you have experience with welding, fabrication, and body repair — and enjoy hands-on work that makes a difference — we encourage you to apply.

• Perform structural and cosmetic body repairs on school buses while ensuring all work meets or exceeds DOT safety standards.
• Fabricate, repair, and replace structural components including crossmembers, door bottoms, side panels, flooring, and other body components.
• Perform MIG welding, cutting, grinding, and metal fabrication projects as needed.
• Conduct rust repair, rust abatement, corrosion treatment, and preventative maintenance.
• Inspect and assess vehicle damage and determine proper repair methods.
• Read and interpret repair estimates, blueprints, SOPs, and work orders.
• Safely operate hand tools, power tools, welders, torches, and fabrication equipment.
• Maintain accurate repair documentation and communicate repair progress with management.
• Work collaboratively with maintenance staff to ensure timely repairs and vehicle readiness.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Perform additional shop duties as assigned.

• Previous experience in metal fabrication, welding, body repair, or heavy-duty vehicle repair.
• Proficiency in MIG welding and metal fabrication techniques.
• Strong understanding of structural repair and safe fabrication practices.
• Experience with rust repair and corrosion prevention.
• Ability to read and interpret estimates, repair procedures, and SOPs.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training preferred.
• Ability to lift heavy objects and work in varying positions throughout the day.

• Collision repair, welding, or related fields.
• Experience working on school buses, commercial trucks, or heavy-duty equipment.
• Experience with aluminum or steel fabrication.

• Starting at $23/hour up to $28.00 based on experience
• Tools provided
• Safety boot reimbursement
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement
• Paid time off and holidays
• Stable, team-oriented work environment

• Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Summer Hours: Monday–Thursday | 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Requirements:

• Experience: experience preferred as a body shop technician, with specific expertise in welding and fabricating.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications in welding, fabrication, and collision repair are preferred.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of DOT standards and regulations.
• Skills: Proficient in welding, metal fabrication, and the use of body shop tools and equipment.
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail to ensure precision in repairs and modifications.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy equipment and standing for extended periods.
• Team Player: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with other team members.
• Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and repair complex issues.