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Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

  • PTO

Competitive, based on experience ($40,000 - $60,000 annually, plus benefits) We are looking for a dedicated Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA

$40K - $60K/yr

  • PTO

Competitive, based on experience ($40,000 - $60,000 annually, plus benefits) We are looking for a dedicated Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

  • PTO

Competitive, based on experience ($40,000 - $60,000 annually, plus benefits) We are looking for a dedicated Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

El Monte, CA

  • Medical

  • PTO

Position Summary We are looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have experience preparing vehicles for painting, including ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

South El Monte, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • PTO

Position Summary We are looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have experience preparing vehicles for painting, including ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

El Monte, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • PTO

Position Summary We are looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have experience preparing vehicles for painting, including ...

Chilton Auto Body

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Paint Prepper assists the Painter in the refinishing process. MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY!! PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR RESUME - REQUIRED!! Responsibilities:

Chilton Auto Body

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Paint Prepper assists the Painter in the refinishing process. MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY!! PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR RESUME - REQUIRED!!Responsibilities:Paint ...

Chilton Auto Body

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

San Bruno, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Paint Prepper assists the Painter in the refinishing process. YOU MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY!! Responsibilities: * Paint Preparation: Assist Paint technician ...

Chilton Auto Body

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

San Bruno, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Paint Prepper assists the Painter in the refinishing process. YOU MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY!!Responsibilities:Paint Preparation: Assist Paint technician by ...

Classic Collision

Automotive Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Automotive Paint Prepper $18.00 - $24.00 Per Hour, DOE Classic Collision is now hiring an Autobody Paint Prepper. Classic Collision was established in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia with one single goal:

Puget Collision

Paint Prepper/Detailer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Auto Body Collision Repair: Paint Prepper with Detail Duties Auto Paint Prepper with Detailer Duties The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle ...

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Entry-level Auto Body Repair Technician, you'll be expected to prep vehicles for paint ... Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork ...

Calvin Wayne Cox

Automotive Prepper

Exeter, CA · On-site

$22/hr

As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by ... Some employers provide on-the-job training, but attending a trade school for auto body painting or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in California

Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do auto body paint prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body paint prepper in California is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an auto body paint prepper?

To thrive as an Auto Body Paint Prepper, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation techniques, attention to detail, and experience with sanding, masking, and cleaning vehicle surfaces; a high school diploma or equivalent is often required. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as sanders, spray guns, respirators, and paint booths, as well as adherence to safety protocols, is important, while some employers may prefer candidates with I-CAR or similar certifications. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, reliability, and an ability to follow detailed instructions help candidates excel. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring high-quality paint finishes, meeting shop deadlines, and maintaining workplace safety standards.

What is an auto body paint prepper?

An Auto Body Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing vehicles for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and cleaning surfaces. They ensure a smooth and even base for the paint application by removing imperfections, rust, and old paint. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of automotive coatings, and the ability to work with various tools and materials. Preppers often collaborate with painters and technicians in body shops to maintain high-quality finishes. Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a professional and long-lasting paint job.

What does an auto body paint prepper do?

As an Auto Body Paint Prepper, your day typically involves inspecting vehicles for imperfections, sanding and masking surfaces, cleaning panels to remove dust and contaminants, and ensuring all surfaces are ready for painting. You will often collaborate closely with paint technicians and body repair teams to coordinate work and ensure a smooth workflow. Attention to safety and detail is important, as you'll be working with specialized equipment in a shop environment. Over time, consistent performance can lead to opportunities for advancement to paint technician roles or other positions in auto body repair. The role requires a balance of technical skill, teamwork, and an eye for quality that directly impacts customer satisfaction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California?

The most popular types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California?

For Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings:

Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,793 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Auto Body Paint Prepper

CSN Collision

Van Nuys, CA • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: Competitive, based on experience ($40,000 - $60,000 annually, plus benefits)

We are looking for a dedicated Auto Body Paint Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll prepare vehicles for painting, ensuring high-quality finishes and supporting our paint technicians in delivering exceptional results.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare vehicle surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, cleaning, and applying primer to ensure smooth, imperfection-free.
  • Wash vehicles to remove dirt, oil, grease, and debris from painted surfaces, and locate/remove any imperfections on panels before painting.
  • Assist paint technicians with material preparation, booth setup, and maintaining clean equipment and work areas.
  • Review repair orders prior to starting work, and complete all paint preparation processes, including priming, edging, or jamming replacement parts as needed.
  • Mask off parts that are not to be painted or coated to protect surrounding areas during the refinishing process

Requirements

Qualifications:
  • Previous experience (1-3 years) in auto body paint preparation or a similar role in a body shop or collision center.
  • Strong knowledge of automotive surface preparation techniques, including sanding techniques, priming, and masking.
  • Familiarity with tools and materials used in auto body repair, such as sanders, primers, and masking supplies.
  • Attention to detail, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and commitment to safety standards.
  • High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in auto body repair is a plus.

Benefits

Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation with potential for performance-based bonuses.
  • Paid vacation.
  • Ongoing training and opportunities for advancement in the auto body field.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere in a well-equipped shop.