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Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Tate's Auto Body

Be Seen First

Paint Prep Technician / Paint Prepper

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Paint Prep Technician / Paint Prepper Tate's Auto Body - Traverse City, MI Join a Team That Takes Pride in Doing Things Right At Tate's Auto Body, we're committed to repairing vehicles safely ...

Cox Automotive

Auto Body Painter Helper

Carleton, MI · On-site

High school diploma or GED preferred. * 1+ years of experience in an auto body/paint shop, vocational, or technical school in automotive program. * Valid driver's license and good driving record ...

Auto Pride Collision

Painter

Mount Morris, MI · On-site

The Auto Body Painter performs skilled work in preparing metal, plastic and other surfaces on automotive equipment for painting and in applying base coat and clear coat. Refinished vehicles should be ...

CollisionRight

Painter

Mount Morris, MI · On-site

The Auto Body Painter performs skilled work in preparing metal, plastic and other surfaces on automotive equipment for painting and in applying base coat and clear coat. Refinished vehicles should be ...

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All JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Michigan

Auto Body Paint Prepper information

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

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body paint prepper in Michigan is $15.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $16.78 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Michigan? For Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs? Cities in Michigan 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 Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,494 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Paint Prep Technician / Paint Prepper

Tate's Auto Body

Traverse City, MI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Paint Prep Technician / Paint Prepper

Tate's Auto Body – Traverse City, MI

Join a Team That Takes Pride in Doing Things Right

At Tate's Auto Body, we're committed to repairing vehicles safely, correctly, and to the highest standards. We're looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Paint Prep Technician to join our growing team. If you enjoy hands-on work, take pride in quality, and want to be part of a shop that values teamwork and craftsmanship, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

  • Prepare vehicles and parts for paint by sanding, masking, and cleaning surfaces.
  • Remove and reinstall trim, moldings, lights, mirrors, and other components as needed.
  • Perform final cleaning and tack-off before vehicles enter the paint booth.
  • Mix and apply primers when necessary.
  • Assist painters with staging vehicles and maintaining workflow.
  • Inspect repaired panels for imperfections before paint application.
  • Keep the prep and paint areas clean, organized, and efficient.
  • Follow OEM repair procedures and all shop safety standards.
  • Work closely with body technicians, painters, and estimators to ensure high-quality repairs.
  •  

What We're Looking For

  • Experience in automotive paint preparation is preferred, but we're willing to train the right individual with a strong work ethic.
  • Attention to detail and pride in producing quality work.
  • Ability to stay organized.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to help the team.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to remain on your feet throughout the workday.

Why Work at Tate's Auto Body?

  • Competitive pay based on experience.
  • Monday-Friday schedule with no weekends.
  • Paid holidays and paid time off.
  • Ongoing training and opportunities for advancement.
  • Modern equipment and a clean, professional work environment.
  • Supportive team that values honesty, communication, and craftsmanship.

Our Core Values

At Tate's Auto Body, we believe in:

  • Doing it right the first time.
  • Clear communication every step of the way.
  • Taking ownership of every repair.
  • Respecting our teammates and customers.
  • Never compromising on safety or quality.

If you're looking for a shop where your work matters and quality comes first, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of the Tate's Auto Body team!