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Auto Paint Prep Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Structures

Paint Prep Tech

Delano, MN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The essence of the Paint Prep Technician's role is to prepare all pieces and ... Previous experience in auto body paint preparation is preferred. * Basic computer knowledge.

McHale Auto Body

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autobody or mechanical

Savage, MN · On-site

$34K - $42K/yr

looking for full or part time auto body- body work, filler work, sand and prep work, sealer, primer, paint clear all aspects are good for a candidate to have had experience with mechanical- tires ...

McHale Auto Body

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autobody or mechanical

Savage, MN · On-site

$34K - $42K/yr

looking for full or part time auto body- body work, filler work, sand and prep work, sealer, primer, paint clear all aspects are good for a candidate to have had experience with mechanical- tires ...

Kunes Auto

Body Shop Technician - Painter

Hastings, MN · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

At Kunes Auto Group, we believe great people build great dealerships. We're committed to servant ... Prep surfaces (sanding, masking, priming) and mix, match, and apply paint using color-matching ...

Senneca Holdings

Painter

Woodbury, MN · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Inspect for final prep and manage the loading and unloading of paint and supplies, ensuring color ... Requirements Preferred: 1 year of experience in industrial or auto body painting. * Ability to ...

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All JobsAuto Paint Prep JobsAuto Paint Prep Jobs in Minnesota

Auto Paint Prep information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$25

$45

How much do auto paint prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto paint prep in Minnesota is $25.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid painting job?

In the auto paint prep field, lead automotive painters or master refinishing technicians tend to earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $60,000 annually. Advanced skills, certifications, and experience with high-end or custom vehicles can increase earning potential further.

What does an Auto Paint Prep do?

An Auto Paint Prep, also known as an automotive paint preparer, prepares vehicles for painting by sanding, masking, cleaning, and priming surfaces. Their role is essential for ensuring that the paint adheres properly and that the final finish is smooth and free of imperfections. They work closely with painters and other body shop staff, following safety procedures and quality standards to deliver high-quality results. Attention to detail and knowledge of various tools and materials are important skills for this job.

Is autobody painting a good career?

Auto paint prep is a key part of autobody painting, involving surface preparation and priming before painting. It offers opportunities for skilled technicians, often requiring attention to detail, knowledge of paints and tools, and sometimes certifications. The career can be stable with demand in auto repair shops and collision centers, but it may involve exposure to fumes and physical work.

What does an automotive paint prepper do?

An automotive paint prepper is responsible for preparing vehicle surfaces before painting by cleaning, sanding, and masking to ensure proper paint adhesion and a smooth finish. They often use tools like sanders, masking tape, and cleaning solvents, and may need knowledge of safety procedures and proper surface inspection. Attention to detail and adherence to quality standards are essential in this role.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by Auto Paint Prep technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Auto Paint Prep technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanded to prevent paint imperfections, managing tight deadlines for multiple vehicles, and safely handling chemicals and tools. Overcoming these challenges requires attention to detail, effective time management, and adherence to safety protocols. Technicians benefit from consistent training, clear communication with painters and supervisors, and maintaining a well-organized workspace to streamline the prep process and deliver high-quality results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Auto Paint Prep, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Paint Prep, you need attention to detail, knowledge of automotive surfaces, and experience with sanding, masking, and priming techniques, typically gained through on-the-job training or vocational education. Familiarity with spray guns, sanders, respirators, and industry-standard safety practices is essential for this role. Strong time management, reliability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for meeting deadlines and maintaining workflow in a body shop environment. These skills ensure vehicles are properly prepared for painting, resulting in high-quality finishes and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Auto Paint Prep vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAuto Paint PrepAuto Body Technician
CertificationsAuto Paint Certification, OSHA safety trainingASE Certification, Auto Body Repair Certification
Work EnvironmentPaint booths, spray areas, repair shopsRepair bays, collision centers, body shops
Job FocusSurface preparation, sanding, masking, primingCollision repair, dent removal, panel replacement

Auto Paint Prep specialists focus on preparing vehicle surfaces for painting, including sanding, masking, and priming. Auto Body Technicians handle broader collision repairs, including fixing dents and replacing panels. While both roles work in auto repair shops and require safety certifications, Auto Paint Prep is more specialized in surface preparation for painting, whereas Auto Body Technicians perform comprehensive collision repairs.

How much do body paint models get paid?

Body paint models typically earn between $50 and $200 per hour, depending on the event, experience, and location. Payment can also include photoshoots, promotional events, or competitions, with rates varying accordingly.
What are popular job titles related to Auto Paint Prep jobs in Minnesota? For Auto Paint Prep jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Paint Prep jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Paint Prep jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Auto Paint Prep jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Auto Paint Prep job openings:
Auto Paint Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Paint Prep job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,439 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Paint Prep Tech

Landscape Structures

Delano, MN • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Landscape Structures rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT AQUATIX BY LANDSCAPE STRUCTURES

With more than 30 years of water experience, Aquatix is a leader in water feature and spray park design, fabrication and construction. Pioneering integrated recirculation systems, the company provides a sustainable solution that empowers hours of innovative activity without water consumption limits. Now we're entering a whole new dimension. By joining forces with leading playground equipment manufacturer Landscape Structures Inc., Aquatix will apply the ground-breaking design and innovation they are known for to the creation of imaginative new water experiences.

You can now text "Jobs" to 763-296-1077 to learn more!

POSITION SUMMARY

The essence of the Paint Prep Technician’s role is to prepare all pieces and products for paint while keeping a high-quality standard.


VALUES

  • Innovation
  • Commitment & Passion
  • Integrity
  • Team & Relationships

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Prepares products by doing light bodywork, sanding, blocking, filing, and priming
  • Assists Lead Painter in preparing products for paint
  • Places products for painting on movable platforms
  • Moves and stages painted products in the drying room
  • Responsible for overseeing paint and prep material inventory
  • Keeps work area clean and organized
  • Communicate ideas and issues in a timely manner.
  • Ensure high-quality standards.
  • Work in a team-orientated manner.
  • Inspect refurbished materials, assess conditions, and make recommendations for future improvements.

ATTRIBUTES

  • Able to prepare products for paint application.
  • Able to stand and prep all parts for extended times throughout the shift.
  • Able to sand and finish the product before painting.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 1+ years experience required
  • Previous experience in auto body paint preparation is preferred.
  • Basic computer knowledge.
  • Experienced with hand tools and sanding devices.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The target hourly range is $22.00 - $27.00, depending upon qualifications and experience. The posted pay range reflects the expected compensation for a fully qualified candidate. Starting pay may be above or below this range based on job-related factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and training needs.

In addition to hourly pay, the compensation package also includes eligibility for profit-sharing and monthly bonus opportunity. Additionally, for eligible full-time employees, we offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits; paid time off and paid holidays; 401(k) retirement plan and employee stock ownership plan.

Landscape Structures is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Landscape Structures participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. See more here.

https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/EVerifyParticipationPoster.pdf



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