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Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A career at Wenzel's Auto Body will provide you with the opportunity to work with leaders in the ... panels for paint • Sanding • Masking • Spraying Primer • Assisting team members with ...

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Baxter, MN · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Candidates must be passionate about working in the Auto Body industry! The primary duties of this position are: * Sanding and masking automotive panels in preparation for painting. * Color sanding ...

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Auto Body Paint Prepper information

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$10

$17

$24

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto body paint prepper in the United States is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.23 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 cities are hiring for Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs?

Cities with the most Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings:

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

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Infographic showing various Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,281 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

Chilton Auto Body

Oakland, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Paint Prepper
Department: Operations
Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter
Position Summary:
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 Preparation: Assist Paint technician by preparing vehicle and parts for painting using proper techniques, equipment, and materials.
    • Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from vehicle surfaces.
    • Apply paper and masking tape to protect non-painted surfaces.
    • Assist Paint Technician with refinish operations as needed.
    • Assist Paint Technician with Priming as needed.
  • Paint Maintenance: Maintain all tools and equipment.
    • Keep workspace clean and organized.
    • Ensure the paint area, prep station, paint booth, paint storage and paint mixing area are clean.
    • Ensure all refinish products are stored as directed.
    • May help with general paint booth maintenance.
  • Safety: Utilize all required safety equipment and follow proper refinishing procedures in compliance with OSHA safety guidelines. Wear and use the required safety equipment (respirator, eye, and skin protectors), handle and dispose hazardous waste properly.
  • Training: Complete assigned training through Collision University. Additional internal and business partner supported training a necessary.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Job duties/Job description may be adjusted or added based on the needs of the business or at management discretion
Requirements:
  • Ability to work collaboratively with the team to meet shared objectives.
  • Ability to work independently as well as parts of a team.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Valid drivers' license required.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.
  • Willing and able to pass a thorough background check.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 1-year automotive paint prep experience.

Benefits:
Paid holidays and 2 weeks PTO
Medical, dental, vision, life insurance
Matching 401(k)