Detail-oriented Car Detailer Job Description

Making a car shiny and spotless on the inside as well as the outside is the main job description of a car detailer. A detailer may work for a car dealership, a car wash, a specialty detail shop, a mechanic shop or as an independent contractor.

Position Description

A car detailer cleans most parts of a car including cracks and crevices that are notcleaned by standard car wash systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Car Detailer

• Uses various types of cleaning equipment and solutions.
• Details vehicle according to the customer’s specific instructions.
• Shampoos carpets and upholstery.
• Vacuums floors and seats.
• Cleans and vacuums the trunk.
• Cleans out ashtrays and cup holders.
• Conditions vinyl and leather.
• Cleans all trash, debris and dirt from the interior of the vehicle.
• Uses special foams and detergents designed for specific types of microfibers.
• Polishes the dashboard, steering wheel, trims and moldings inside the vehicle.
• Cleans door frames and instrument panels.
• Cleans all dirt, grease and tar from the exterior of the vehicle.
• Reconditions the vehicle’s exterior.
• Cleans all glass on the vehicle, inside and out, with the appropriate type of rag and cleaning solution.
• Cleans all mirrors with the proper substance.
• Steams the engine.
• Removes grease from the engine and other parts under the hood.
• Waxes and buffs vehicles after washing.
• Polishes the exterior chrome and all trim on the exterior of the vehicle using special chrome cleaners.
• Uses air compressors and special equipment to dry the inside and outside surfaces.
• Applies chemicals to surfaces to protect against spots and stains.
• Uses various paints, waxes and dyes to protect the leather parts of a vehicle’s interior.
• Uses hoses and pumps for washing and rinsing vehicles.
• Dries floor mats.
• Cleans and polishes wheel rims and makes them sparkle.
• Cleans the headlights, brake lights and taillights making them brighter.
• Fixes minor scratches and chips with touch-up vehicle paint.
• Manages the inventory of cleaning supplies.
• Keeps records of customers and calls when it might be time for another detail.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must have exceptional customer service skills.
• Must be detail oriented.
• Must have excellent communication skills.
• Must be an active listener and exercise sound judgment.
• Good critical thinking and problem solving skills are essential.
• Must be a good time manage and multi-tasker.
• The ability to follow complex instructions is a plus.
• Must have the ability to effectively manage material resources and keep track of an inventory of supplies.
• Should have ample knowledge of safety precautions.

Education and Experience

• High School diploma.
• Training program at place of employment.
• Certificate from a vocational or technical school in auto detailing.
• Certificate from an auto detailing school or course.
• Online seminars about auto detailing.
• Certification from the International Detailing Association or IDA.

Work Environment

• Time is spent inside and outside of vehicles.
• Must be able to work with strong detergents and chemicals.
• Time is spent working outside in both very hot and very cold weather.
• Must be willing to wear gloves and eye and ear protection.

Salary

• Salaries average $18,000 to $24,000 a year depending on the detail shop.
• Hourly wages range from $9 an hour to $12 an hour.