I got screwed!!! Auto Body Tech

[bonacci01]

Hey guys, not a lot of you know me, but I thought I'd post up and tell you about how I got royally f'ed by my employer. Im 24, have a 2 year associate deg in collision repair, and 3 years shop experience. I was working for a small business (just me and my boss) that does mobile interior and exterior repairs on dealer lots, at customers houses....etc etc I was his first employee in 15 years.

 

After working my balls off for him for 9 months with no raise, I wasnt making very good money, and was getting frustrated. Then he slaps what he calls a "no compete" policy in front of me on Friday. (He had his attorney draw it up for him) I told him I would look it over on the weekend and get back to him on monday, but he said no, that he needed it signed today or I was fired. It was complete bullshit basically since it was very vauge, having things about my pay was to be determined by -said company- and I couldnt work or be incontact with any of our competitors or used car lot accounts for 2 years after i left -said comany-. He wouldnt let me take the contract out of the building, and if I left without signing it I was fired. So I left, and boy was he suprised. I'm not signing my future away to anybody, boss or not.

 

I'm looking for a reputable mid to small sized collision/custom/or restoration shop that pays decent $12+ and does good work. I'm no master by and means, but Im a hard ass worker, and have decent knowledge of the trade. Have tools. Any suggestions welcome.

 

Oh, and I live in plain city, so anywhere hillard around to westerville and west half of columbus preferred.

 

I want to post up his name and company name, but wouldn'tin the name of being a gentleman.

[MrMeanGreen]

This is Consumer Reports, so feel free to name names.

 

Also, I'd copy your last couple of paragraphs and post in The Meat Market.

[bonacci01]

This is Consumer Reports, so feel free to name names.

 

Also, I'd copy your last couple of paragraphs and post in The Meat Market.

 

arnt we in the meat market??? confused???

[OSUGT]

Anthony, was your boss' first name Steve?

[bonacci01]

Anthony, was your boss' first name Steve?

 

 

OHHH JASON, I know you now. I read ur employer. pm sent.

[MrMeanGreen]

Yeah, oops. Name names anyways

 

No, my boss isn't Steve, my dad is

[bonacci01]

Yeah, oops. Name names anyways

 

No, my boss isn't Steve, my dad is

 

darkformula, he was talking to me, lol

 

your all fucked up

[MrMeanGreen]

I know, I was being facetious...

[1fast5gp]

looking for some side jobs? i need some parts painted and dents pulled

[HotCarl]

Why not do the obvious and put together your own outfit doing the same exact thing he's doing. There's nothing legally binding you from going after the same client's either. You know how much he charges, you could undercut him aswell. Just an idea.

[bonacci01]

Problem is, I don't like doing that kind of work. I don't like the ways and procedures used in that industry. (The mobile recon industry that is) They are not what I was taught. Plus working out on the lots and at peoples houses just plain sucks.

 

I would love to work for myself, and someday I will fulltime. I do detailing on the side, but since I'm not a sponsor yet, I can't advertise on here. I actually enjoy doing that more than bodywork/painting/etc.

 

But you are right, legally, and if I wanted to, I could do as you suggested.

[baron_]

there's a lot of caselaw on how those noncomplete clauses aren't legally enforceable...if the employer makes you sign them once you're already working

 

 

it's a different matter if you sign it up front

 

 

 

i'm not a lawyer, though

and, as such, not licensed to give legal advice :x

[bonacci01]

there's a lot of caselaw on how those noncomplete clauses aren't legally enforceable...if the employer makes you sign them once you're already working

 

 

it's a different matter if you sign it up front

 

 

 

i'm not a lawyer, though

and, as such, not licensed to give legal advice :x

 

Well, point is, he was hiding a lot in it. Look, I'm no lawyer either, but I am smart enough to have wanted my attorney (who also just happens to be my uncle) look at it before I signed it. But he wouldnt even let me take it out of the building. He said, well I feel like its pretty self explanatory. Like I was stupid and didn't understand what the terms said.

 

Not to mention guys, I was NOT going in with him on the business, I was an HOURLY EMPLOYEE. Making not much more than one could make selling shoes in the mall. No compete, gimmie a break dude. I most likely could go after him legally, but it's not worth the hassle.

 

Anyone have a lead on good bodyshops looking for someone?

[Guest agtw31]

file an unemployment claim on the guy.

thats a slam dunk

[HAOLE]

there's a lot of caselaw on how those noncomplete clauses aren't legally enforceable...if the employer makes you sign them once you're already working

 

 

it's a different matter if you sign it up front

 

 

 

i'm not a lawyer, though

and, as such, not licensed to give legal advice :x

Non- competes are very common in chiropractic. They are nearly impossible to enforce. The courts weigh heavily on the employees ability to earn a living.

 

If I were you, you have the contacts at this point for the mobile recon, I would not put that to good use and maximize on the situation. Developing contacts in that type of industry is half the battle of starting a business. Go for it!! Plus file for the un-employment, you can get a check while trying to get started.

 

My.02

[girlygirl18t]

I was bored last night looking on Monster and columbus jobs. There were a few body shops that had openings. check them out.

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AUTOBODY POSITION Metal Technician Continued growth and a large volume of work have created an opening at one of our four locations. This position offers an excellent salary and benefits package, including 401(k) savings plan, group health insurance, paid vacations, bonus days, holidays, tuition incentive program, and employee discounts. If you are interested, please stop in and fill out an application or call. All replies will be kept in confidence. AUTO BODY/NORTH Worthington Metal Technician (Experience is necessary. ICAR a plus.) Call Brian Huntley 614-436-3700 Email resume to bhuntle@ autobodyofcolumbus.com You may apply online at autobodyofcolumbus.com E.O.E. Drug Free Environment

 

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Description: AUTO BODY COMBO TECH Exp. necessary. FT. Call Jim at 614-471-0505 or 3590 Westerville Rd.

 

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MECH SHOP AUTO TECH Local Auto Auction is looking for a Gen. Auto Tech for their mechanic shop.Duties include oil changes,brakes,batteries,and other misc.This is a full time M-F position w/benefits +401k.To apply,call Andy Wood @614/497-5422 Columbus Fair Auto Auction, Inc. 4700 Groveport Rd. Columbus,Ohio 43207 EOC

 

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New Dealership Needs Personnel

 

Dennis auto point

 

Experienced Technicians:

Will pay up to $25 per hour for import experience.

 

 

Entry Level Technicians:

Experience a plus but not required.

Email

importservice@dennisautopoint.com

 

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Goodyear has over 750 retail stores in the United States. Goodyear's Gemini Automotive Care team provides the highest quality products and outstanding customer service.

 

 

 

We are always seeking qualified individuals who share our values and are committed to treating each customer with the finest possible service and attentiveness. We support our associates with "world class" training centers and programs, competitive salaries and a comprehensive array of benefits.

 

 

 

 

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Qualified candidates are required to have a high school diploma or GED, valid driver's license, tools, and 2 years of automotive related experience.

 

 

 

General Maintenance Technician

 

The General Maintenance Technician position is responsible for light repairs as well as maintenance service on automobiles and light trucks. This position is geared towards individuals who want to become certified Automotive Technicians but currently only have some automotive technical training including automotive vocational education, and those who possess less than 3 years experience in the automotive service industry. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED in progress and have a valid driver’s license.

 

 

 

Qualified candidates will be team players, willing to learn and have hands-on experience with fluid services, tire installation/repair, wheel alignments and other basic maintenance and repairs. There is opportunity for advancement to the positions of Automotive Technician, Service Manager and Sales Associate positions.

 

 

 

General Service Technician

 

As a General Service Technician you will perform general preventive maintenance services along with complete vehicle safety checks for autos and light trucks. Specific services include lube-oil-filter, mounting/dismounting tires, wheel balancing, and other tire-related services. The General Service Technician should have the ability to operate various service tools including hydraulic lifts and air tools.

 

 

 

Qualified candidates are required to have a high school diploma or GED in progress, valid driver's license, and automotive experience.

 

 

 

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[Clifford Automotive]

He cant file for unemployment if he walked out on the job.

 

Non-Compete Clauses are to scare most people. Unless the guy has deep pockets he wouldn't do anything.

 

Can't go after him legally. He has every right to say he cant employ if you don't sign.

 

You and I need to have a conversation sometime.

 

Pm if you'd like.

[verse]

If you go to any Auto Body Collision and Glass you can use me as a reference. Jon Sahr.

[hpfiend]

How is the autobody industry? I heard one time painters get 100K?

 

Definitely demand as everyone is always wrecking something.

 

I second working for youself- people go into succesful ventures all the time with less experience and degrees than you have.

[Clifford Automotive]

I worked with a painter 7 years ago that made 120 a year.

[Bahnstoermer1647545488]

That's funny. I also walked out of a job when presented with a non-compete. They were pissed(!) ...but you did the right thing. Although my situation was different, it seems like he wanted you to quit or something, wonder why he was suprised. Clearly a moron.

[Mojoe]

Non competes are very hard to enforce. They need to be area specific and from what I've seen (when they are enforced) it's for 20 miles in the work area of that business. There is one case I know of that is 50 miles. And it's for a 12 month limit on all of them, for the most part. 5 or more years ago, companies were wracking in the cash on these. Some are still trying. Now if you are trained in something that is a trade secret for that companies success, and then go out on your own with their idea or tool that is key to them only, that's different.

 

Good choice though. Good luck.

[sgtschulze]

Non-competes are very hard to enforce. Nearly impossible against regular employees. I have a friend thats in the industry. He is always looking for some hardworkers etc... I'll see if he's looking for someone right now.

[TurboTank]

Non competes are very hard to enforce. They need to be area specific and from what I've seen (when they are enforced) it's for 20 miles in the work area of that business. There is one case I know of that is 50 miles. And it's for a 12 month limit on all of them, for the most part. 5 or more years ago, companies were wracking in the cash on these. Some are still trying. Now if you are trained in something that is a trade secret for that companies success, and then go out on your own with their idea or tool that is key to them only, that's different.

 

Good choice though. Good luck.

 

 

i also agree this. i feel if your trained in something like a trade secret or something like that, you should be compasated enuf to keep you around.