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Auto Body Prep Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carvana

Auto Body Technician

Tracy, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

El Monte, CA

Conduct pre- and post-prep inspections to ensure quality standards are met. Equipment Use: Operate ... Minimum 2 years of experience in auto body paint preparation. Skills: Strong knowledge of sanding ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

El Monte, CA · On-site

Conduct pre- and post-prep inspections to ensure quality standards are met. · Equipment Use ... Minimum 2 years of experience in auto body paint preparation. · Skills: Strong knowledge of ...

CSN Collision

Auto Body Paint Prepper

El Monte, CA · On-site

Conduct pre- and post-prep inspections to ensure quality standards are met. • Equipment Use ... Minimum 2 years of experience in auto body paint preparation. • Skills: Strong knowledge of ...

Carvana

Auto Body Repair Technician

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

Carvana

Auto Body Repair Technician

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

Carvana

Auto Body Repair Technician

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

Carvana

Auto Body Repair Technician

Sheridan, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

Carvana

Auto Body Repair Technician

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We have a variety of prep roles available, depending on your experience - look below to see what ... Auto Body roles: Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and ...

KNIESELS COLLISION INC

Auto Body Detailer

Rocklin, CA

$18 - $25/hr

Auto Body Detailer (Full-Time) Location: iCrash Collision - 3725 Cincinnati Ave., Suite 200 ... Support repair technicians with tasks such as masking, taping, and sanding during vehicle prep work.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAuto Body Prep JobsAuto Body Prep Jobs in California

Auto Body Prep information

What is an auto body prep?

Auto Body Prep technicians are skilled workers who prepare vehicles for painting and repair after collision or damage. Their main responsibilities include sanding, masking, cleaning surfaces, and applying primers to ensure the car body is ready for paint application. They work closely with auto body repairers and painters, making sure all surfaces are smooth and properly prepped to achieve a professional finish. Attention to detail and knowledge of various tools and materials are essential for this job. This role is critical in the auto body repair process to ensure quality results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto body prep?

To thrive as an Auto Body Prep, you need foundational knowledge of vehicle surfaces, sanding, masking, and basic repair techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with tools like sanders, grinders, spray guns, and safety equipment, as well as understanding automotive paint systems, is essential. Attention to detail, reliability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help ensure quality and efficiency in the preparation process. These skills are vital for delivering a flawless finish, maintaining safety standards, and supporting the workflow in auto body repair shops.

What are the most common challenges faced by auto body prep technicians and how can they be overcome?

Auto Body Prep technicians often face challenges such as managing dust and debris control, ensuring surfaces are properly prepped for painting, and working efficiently under tight deadlines. Mastering proper sanding techniques and staying organized help maintain high-quality results. Communication with painters and other team members is crucial to prevent rework and ensure a smooth workflow. Staying updated on new products and safety procedures also helps overcome these challenges and contributes to career advancement.

What is the difference between Auto Body Prep vs Auto Body Painter?

AspectAuto Body PrepAuto Body Painter
CertificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, specialized painting certifications
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, collision centersPaint booths, collision centers
Primary ResponsibilitiesSurface cleaning, sanding, maskingApplying paint, finishing coats
OverlapYes, both work in collision repair

Auto Body Prep involves preparing vehicle surfaces through cleaning, sanding, and masking to ensure proper paint adhesion. Auto Body Painter focuses on applying paint and finishing coats to restore vehicle appearance. While both roles are essential in collision repair, Auto Body Prep prepares the surface, and Auto Body Painter completes the painting process.

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

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

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

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

Auto Body Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Prep job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Auto Body Technician (Assembler of Heavy Duty Transit Buses)

GILLIG

Livermore, CA • On-site

$39.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Hourly Rate $39.72 per hour (Autobody Tech.)
GILLIG is the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the United States. From initial design through final assembly, each GILLIG bus is designed and built by dedicated Americans in Livermore, California. GILLIG buses are known for their unmatched quality. We are excited to increase the production of our Battery Electric bus which is the most comprehensive, advanced zero-emission bus on the market.
WHY GILLIG
  • Leader in environmentally friendly mobility solutions including battery electric, hybrid electric, near-zero CNG and clean diesel transit buses
  • Renowned for its inclusive team/family-oriented culture
  • Stable, successful, and growing organization - a Bay Area business for over 132 years!
  • Excellent compensation including company paid medical premiums, pension, 401(K) plans and other comprehensive benefits
ABOUT THE ROLE
To maintain the high standards of quality and craftsmanship in every bus, GILLIG is seeking qualified individuals to join our assembly team. Individuals may be assigned to various work assignments including but not limited to; engine installation, wire harness assembly, seat installation, frame construction, and chassis work among other assignments available. Assemblers will be responsible for interpreting engineering drawings and bills of materials to assemble complex mechanical and electrical components all while meeting deadlines on a fast-paced assembly line. This role requires excellent communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while adhering to safety protocols. The ideal candidate would consistently:
  • Perform autobody work repairs, including visual inspections and timely repairs
  • Demonstrate proficiency in operating sanders, grinding tools, and spray guns for primer application
  • Excel in sheet metal body repairs, including body filler application, finishing, and metal work with hammer and dolly techniques
  • Perform sheet metal body repairs including visual inspections, body prep, filler application, primer application, finishing, and metal work
  • Use problem solving skills and attention to detail to contribute to the assembly of a bus
  • Install mechanical and electrical components and systems such as engines, transmissions, axles, pumps, wire harnesses, instrument control panels, video camera, and brake systems
  • Fit and adjust passenger and compartment doors, body panels, trim, etc.
  • Seal joints and seams using caulking gun
  • Bolt, screw, clip, fasten, or attach parts and components and subassemblies
  • Inspect and verify the quality of work and document defects observed
  • Input data and retrieve assembly instructions or production data using a computer or tablet
  • Maintain a safe and collaborative work environment
  • Other job functions as required
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Able to work full-time
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented production or manufacturing environment, demonstrating strong interpersonal and effective communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to handle and manipulate standard hand, electric, and pneumatic tools
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to follow work instructions
  • Efficiently manage time to meet production deadlines and targets
  • Able to frequently and repetitively, lift, push, and carry up to 70 lbs
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods, up to 8+ hours per day
  • Must be able to read, speak and understand English, both written and verbal
  • Ability to adhere to safety protocols and guidelines
  • Knowledge in use of computers and tablets for data entry and assembly instruction research
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Fast-paced and high-quality manufacturing environment
  • Requires frequent and repetitive bend, lift, squat, kneel, twist, and reach motions to install vehicle parts within specified timeframes
  • Ability to climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding, or other elevated structures
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including safety glasses, bump caps, hearing protection, and gloves, while following safety rules and guidelines
  • Union Participation is required
  • Standard start time 5:00 a.m. for 1st shift
ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS ROLE:
  • There is a probationary period for ninety working days. Failure to successfully complete probation will result in termination
    • Performance is evaluated at thirty, sixty and ninety days
  • Vacation allotment: 1 week after one (1) full year of employment

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor work visa's now or in the future
GILLIG is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.

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