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Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Economy Auto Body

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Auto Body Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$800 - $1.3K/wk

Auto Body Painter / Estimator Reports To: Shop Manager | Job Type: Full-Time Job Summary We are looking for a skilled, versatile Auto Body Painter / Estimator to bridge front-end customer service and ...

ANDREWS AUTOMOTIVE CORP

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Auto Body Prepper/Coatings

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Previous experience as an auto body prepper or technician is preferred * A minimum of 1 years of experience in auto body repair * Proficient in the use of most auto body tools for prepping and ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers Competitive Pay ...

Carvana

Experienced Auto Body Tech

Riverdale, IL

Experienced Prepper (min 5 years professional experience): train other autobody technicians and ... Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and PDR (Paintless ...

Carvana

Experienced Auto Body Tech

University Park, IL · On-site

Experienced Prepper (min 5 years professional experience): train other autobody technicians and ... Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and PDR (Paintless ...

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All JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Illinois

Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$17

$23

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body paint prepper in Illinois is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Illinois 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 Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,127 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Automotive Refinishing Paint Prepper

ATHENIAN BODY SHOP & SALES INC

Chicago Ridge, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
Athenian Body Shop & Sales Inc is looking for a skilled Automotive Refinishing Paint Prepper to join our team in Chicago Ridge, IL! This is your chance to bring your attention to detail and passion for quality craftsmanship to a shop that takes pride in delivering exceptional results. If you love working with your hands and want to be part of a dedicated collision repair team, we want to hear from you!
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare vehicle surfaces for paint application through sanding, masking, and priming
  • Perform surface repairs including filling dents, scratches, and imperfections using body filler
  • Apply primer coats and guide coats to ensure smooth, paint-ready surfaces
  • Mask and protect vehicle components, glass, and trim prior to refinishing
  • Inspect and sand cured primer to achieve proper surface finish and adhesion
  • Maintain a clean and organized prep station and spray booth area
  • Collaborate with painters and technicians to ensure efficient workflow and quality outcomes
Requirements:
  • Prior experience in automotive paint prep, collision repair, or auto body refinishing preferred
  • Proficiency with sanders, DA polishers, masking techniques, and prep tools
  • Knowledge of primers, sealers, and surface preparation materials
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, production-oriented shop environment
  • Reliable, punctual, and a strong team player
  • I-CAR or ASE certification is a plus but not required
About Us:
Athenian Body Shop & Sales Inc has been a trusted name in collision repair and automotive refinishing in the Chicago Ridge, IL area. Our customers keep coming back because of our commitment to quality workmanship and honest service. We foster a team-oriented environment where skilled professionals are valued and have the opportunity to grow their craft.