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Auto Paint Prep Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acara Solutions

Paint Prep Technician

Bath, NY

$22/hr

Experience in industrial, rail, or automotive paint prep with large parts (sanding, masking, body ... Certification in industrial coatings or auto body repair is a plus. Additional Information:

Rambilas Group LLC

Automotive Painter

Orlando, FL · On-site

Automotive Painter - Maaco Join the #1 name in auto paint and collision repair! Maaco Orlando is ... Prep, mix, and apply paint for high-quality finishes * Ensure color accuracy and consistency * Work ...

Carvana

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Fishers, IN

Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) roles * Auto Technician/Mechanic roles: Lube and Oil, Inspection, Brake and Tire ...

Carvana

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Plainfield, IN · On-site

Paint, Prep/Body work, Wheel Repair, Airbrush, Interior Repair, Glass Repair, and PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) roles * Auto Technician/Mechanic roles: Lube and Oil, Inspection, Brake and Tire ...

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Auto Paint Prep information

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$14

$26

$46

How much do auto paint prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto paint prep in the United States is $26.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

More about Auto Paint Prep jobs
What cities are hiring for Auto Paint Prep jobs? Cities with the most Auto Paint Prep job openings:
What states have the most Auto Paint Prep jobs? States with the most job openings for Auto Paint Prep jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Auto Paint Prep jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Paint Prep jobs are:
Auto Paint Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Paint Prep job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,562 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

Autobody Collision Paint Prepper

Chilton Auto Body

Burlingame, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare vehicles and parts for painting using proper techniques, equipment, and materials.

  • Maintain and clean all tools, equipment, workspace, paint area, prep station, paint booth, paint storage, and paint mixing area.

  • Utilize required safety equipment and follow proper refinishing procedures in compliance with OSHA safety guidelines.

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)


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