Originally Posted by Joliet John
I was in the parts business for years. Knowledgeable parts people who have the chance to make commissions and/or bonuses can make some pretty good money. Then again, a good autobody tech can do pretty well too (although, not as much these days as in times past).
The business is changing a lot. I'd say right now, you'd probably do better over the long term as a body tech.
With the internet getting a good piece of some of the action, the business is changing. I do notice that when I take my car to the local Chrysler dealer, there are always two parts guys working and they seem to be busy most of the time.
The questions are Curtis,
Is the shop you would be going to doing better than the one you are at?
Who treats customers better?
Who is more likely to get repeat customers on a regular basis?
With insurance companies, you can get a preferred status with them, but is their company good enough to survive in the area.
I'm sure there are more intelligent ones others can ask, but you know the drill. Write down those pro's & con's (like you did when deciding to move back East). Then throw in the family factor, then the what am I going to be more happy doing and what is going to give me stability to live the life I want.
Let us know how you come out.