Wash or otherwise clean vehicles, machinery, and other equipment. Use such materials as water, cleaning agents, brushes, cloths, and hoses.
SOC: 53-7061.00
Common Job Titles
Automotive Detailer (Auto Detailer)
Car Washer
Detailer
Reconditioner
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate pressure washers, steam cleaners, and specialized cleaning equipment following safety protocols and manufacturer guidelines to clean vehicles and machinery.
Developing
Hands-onPerform vehicle washing, polishing, and detailing procedures using brushes, cloths, cleaning agents, and power buffers to achieve quality standards.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess vehicle and equipment surfaces for cleaning requirements and potential damage inspecting materials and structures before and after cleaning operations.
Developing
Hands-onHandle cleaning materials, chemical agents, and detailing supplies following public safety and hazardous material handling procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeApply chemical knowledge and cleaning techniques selecting appropriate cleaning agents for different vehicle surfaces and material types.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and workflow prioritization organizing and scheduling multiple cleaning tasks to meet service deadlines.
Developing
MindsetEngage with customers and team members providing service-oriented communication and building interpersonal relationships.
Developing
Hands-onPerform equipment maintenance and minor repairs maintaining mechanical cleaning equipment and troubleshooting operational issues.
Developing
KnowledgeMonitor cleaning processes and quality outcomes conducting quality control analysis to ensure compliance with service standards.
Developing
KnowledgeOperate inventory tracking software and scheduling systems documenting work activities and managing material resources.
Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
373,960
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $26,740. 25th percentile: U.S. $29,790. 50th percentile: U.S. $35,270. 75th percentile: U.S. $39,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $47,150. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$26,740
10% of workers earn the following or more
$47,150
Workers on average earn
$36,290
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
English Language3.3/5
Transportation3.1/5
Administration and Management2.9/5
Public Safety and Security2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Windows
Technology Skills
Bella FSM Auto Detailing Service Software
BookFresh
Green Cloud KleanTRAC
Inventory tracking software
Thoughtful Systems Scheduling Manager for Auto Detailing
