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Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Paint Prepper Department: Paint Department Reports To: Paint Manager / Lead Painter ... Work closely with painters, body technicians, and production management to meet cycle time goals ...

Job Title: Paint Prepper Department: Paint Department Reports To: Paint Manager / Lead Painter ... Work closely with painters, body technicians, and production management to meet cycle time goals ...

Auto Body Painter Busy Auto Body Shop looking for experienced painter to join our team. Must have experience spraying base/clear coat as well as single stage paints and waterborne. The candidate must ...

Auto Body Painter Busy Auto Body Shop looking for experienced painter to join our team. Must have experience spraying base/clear coat as well as single stage paints and waterborne. The candidate must ...

Sands body areas to be painted and covers bumpers, windows, and trim with masking tape or paper to protect them from the paint. * Fits and welds replacement parts into place, using wrenches and ...

High School Diploma (GED) or equivalent work experience. * 2 years Prepper experience body shop experience. * Basic knowledge of paint surface preparation. * The knowledge to mix and use paint and ...

High School Diploma (GED) or equivalent work experience. * 2 years Prepper experience body shop experience. * Basic knowledge of paint surface preparation. * The knowledge to mix and use paint and ...

Sands body areas to be painted and covers bumpers, windows, and trim with masking tape or paper to protect them from the paint. * Fits and welds replacement parts into place, using wrenches and ...

High School Diploma (GED) or equivalent work experience. * 2 years Prepper experience body shop experience. * Basic knowledge of paint surface preparation. * The knowledge to mix and use paint and ...

Auto Body Paint Technician - Senior - Fixed Site! $5,000 Sign On Bonus! Do you enjoy working with customers? Join our growing team as a Senior Paint Technician and start a rewarding career with ...

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Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See New York salary details

$11

$19

$26

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body paint prepper in New York is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $21.06 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 New York?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings in New York 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 $40,787 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Paint Prepper
Department: Paint Department
Reports To: Paint Manager / Lead Painter
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Paint Preparation Technician plays a critical role in the refinishing process by preparing vehicles and panels for painting. This position ensures all surfaces are properly cleaned, sanded, masked, and primed to deliver a high-quality finished product that meets OEM standards and shop expectations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Surface Preparation: Sand, scuff, featheredge, and prep repair areas to ensure smooth and uniform surfaces prior to primer or paint application.
  • Masking & Protection: Mask vehicles accurately to protect non-painted areas and ensure clean paint lines.
  • Priming & Blocking: Apply primers, sealers, and adhesion promoters as required. Block sand and prepare panels for topcoat.
  • Material Handling: Mix, label, and store paint materials, primers, and related supplies following safety and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Quality Control: Inspect panels for defects, imperfections, and proper bodywork completion before sending to the painter.
  • Equipment & Shop Maintenance: Maintain sanding tools, spray guns, mixing equipment, and workstations. Keep prep areas clean and compliant with safety standards.
  • Safe Work Practices: Follow all OSHA, EPA, and shop-specific safety procedures including PPE use, proper ventilation, and hazardous waste disposal.
  • Team Collaboration: Work closely with painters, body technicians, and production management to meet cycle time goals and ensure efficient workflow.

Required Skills & Qualifications
  • 1-2 years of experience in paint prep, collision repair, or automotive refinishing (preferred but not required)
  • Strong understanding of sanding techniques, masking procedures, and primer application
  • Ability to use sanding blocks, DA sanders, hand tools, and basic paint-prep equipment
  • Attention to detail and pride in delivering high-quality work
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in a fast-paced shop environment
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record

Preferred Qualifications
  • I-CAR training or certifications
  • Experience with OEM repair standards and modern refinishing systems
  • Familiarity with waterborne paint systems

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits (if applicable)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Training and growth opportunities within a growing collision repair network
  • A supportive, team-oriented work environment