Career Definition for an Auto Detailer
Auto detailers, also called vehicle cleaners, scrub and polish automobiles using a variety of cleaning tools. They apply cleaners and abrasive solutions, wash and polish windows, rinse objects from car interiors and dry entire vehicles. The work is often noisy and performed in enclosed spaces that involve exposure to contaminants. Work may include cleaning private vehicles, as well as storage tanks, pipelines and related machinery. Employment is most often found at dealerships, car washes and car rental agencies.
| Education | High school diploma or GED helpful but not necessary |
| Job Skills | Good close-range vision, customer service skills, manual dexterity, physical endurance |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $29,280 for cleaners of vehicles and equipment |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 6% for cleaners of vehicles and equipment |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Requirements
Entry-level employees, according to O*Net Online, may need a GED or high school diploma, although as many as 34% of workers in the field had less than a high school diploma as of 2019. The job may be learned in as little as a few days under the supervision of more experienced workers. Professional organizations, such as Power Washers of North America (PWNA), offer advanced training in cleaning, washing, restoring and environmental practices. No formal education programs are offered for auto detailing, although many are available for auto body repair.
Required Skills
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the traits required for an auto detailing career included:
- Customer service, communication and listening skills
- Ability to see clearly at a close range
- Coordination and manual dexterity
- Physical endurance, since it takes strength and endurance to detail cars on a full-time basis
Employment and Salary Outlook
According to the BLS, the median annual wage for cleaners of vehicles and other equipment was $29,280 in 2021. The BLS also reported that this field was expected to grow about as fast as average at a rate of 6% from 2021-2031.
