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Auto Body Prep Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Painter

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

Auto Body Vo-Tech certificate or ASE certification in refinishing preferred * Must have a valid ... Spray test panels for each vehicle to ensure color match * Assist in prep work when necessary

Auto Body Paint Technician - Experienced Do you enjoy working with customers and being on the ... Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection * Work independently at partner locations ...

Auto Body Paint Technician - Experienced Do you enjoy working with customers and being on the move ... Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection * Work independently at partner locations ...

Auto Body Paint Technician

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$50K - $150K/yr

Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection * Work independently at partner locations like dealerships, rental agencies, and auctions * Deliver fast, flawless results that exceed ...

Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection * Work independently at partner locations like dealerships, rental agencies, and auctions * Deliver fast, flawless results that exceed ...

Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection * Work independently at partner locations like dealerships, rental agencies, and auctions * Deliver fast, flawless results that exceed ...

Travel to automotive customers to perform high-quality minor paint touch-ups to full surface repairs using advanced spray equipment and proven techniques Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to ...

Previous experience in collision repair or paint prep preferred * Strong attention to detail and ... Basic knowledge of tools and materials used in auto body repair What We Offer: * Competitive pay ...

Previous experience in collision repair or paint prep preferred * Strong attention to detail and ... Basic knowledge of tools and materials used in auto body repair What We Offer: * Competitive pay ...

Previous experience in collision repair or paint prep preferred * Strong attention to detail and ... Basic knowledge of tools and materials used in auto body repair What We Offer: * Competitive pay ...

Previous experience in collision repair or paint prep preferred * Strong attention to detail and ... Basic knowledge of tools and materials used in auto body repair What We Offer: * Competitive pay ...

Auto Body Prep information

See Washington salary details

$34.5K

$73.7K

$111.6K

How much do auto body prep jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto body prep in Washington is $73,686.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,600.00 and $87,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Auto Body Prep technicians?

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, and why are they important?

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 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 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.
Infographic showing various Auto Body Prep job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,686 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Automotive Painter

Huntington Autobody & Paint

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 19 days ago

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Job description

Qualifications

  • Typically has a minimum of 3-5 years of refinishing experience
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Auto Body Vo-Tech certificate or ASE certification in refinishing preferred
  • Must have a valid drivers license and be eligible for coverage under  insurance policy (Not an excluded driver)
  • Ability to effectively communicate with others, oral and written
  • Advanced communication to mentor/coach/train apprentices as required
  • Ability to read and understand basic instructions, written estimates and work orders
  • Multi-taking; adapts easily to fast-paced environment
  • Personable, friendly demeanor with World Class customer service approach to internal and external customers
  • Must have manual dexterity to operate equipment
  • Subject to weather conditions both inside and outside
  • Must have visual acuity to determine the accuracy and thoroughness of the work assigned

Responsibilities

  • Refinish all assigned vehicles to pre-accident condition according to the written work-order, effectively diagnose and refinish vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in a manner according to Huntington Autobody & Paint Standard operating Procedures, insurance partners and OEM industry guidelines/standards
  • Responsible for following proper repair procedures and performs all refinish procedures according to factory specifications and Shop policy to restore damaged vehicles to their original structural appearance
  • Utilize air sanders, spray guns, sanding blocks, buffing equipment, etc. in order to complete quality work
  • Manage & control materials cost maximizing usage and inventory
  • Prepare color tint to match paint color; Mix paint colors, and ensure all formulations, preparations, top coating and curing meet OEM recommended standards for proper application sequence, timing and materials usage
  • Follow all paint manufacturing guidelines
  • Spray test panels for each vehicle to ensure color match
  • Assist in prep work when necessary
  • Ensure that all paint operations are complete, all masking is removed, and all prior paint-related disassembly has been reassembled prior to returning the vehicle to the body technician
  • Adhere to all regulatory compliance guidelines for hazardous waste disposal
  • Maintain clean, orderly and organized work area
  • Comply with Huntington Autobody & Paint safety rules, guidelines and standards
  • Perform other duties as required to successfully meet the needs of the business

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

Position is based in a normal shop environment. Frequent physical activity such as kneeling, bending, squatting, stooping, lifting above shoulders is a part of daily activity as well as repetitive tasks involving hand and arm motion and lifting objects over 50 pounds. Must be able to push/pull parts carts and cars with assistance. Working environment consists of: Exposure to fumes, chemicals, dust, along with high levels of noise. Huntington Autobody & Paint enforces the Mandatory requirement to wear protective equipment. Must have manual dexterity to operate equipment. Subject to weather conditions both inside and outside. Must have visual acuity to determine the accuracy and thoroughness of the work assigned