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Automotive Buffer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cash Now Auto

Automotive Detailer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Skilled use of wool buff and high-speed buffer * Full interior and exterior detailing (finish a car ... Experience in detailing (automotive, boats, or airplanes) * Strong knowledge of buffing, polishing ...

Cash Now Auto

Automotive Detailer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Skilled use of wool buff and high-speed buffer * Full interior and exterior detailing (finish a car ... Experience in detailing (automotive, boats, or airplanes) * Strong knowledge of buffing, polishing ...

Dahl Automotive

Entry-Level Automotive Detailer

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Join the Dahl Automotive team at our Reconditioning Center in Onalaska, WI --a non-guest-facing ... Apply wax and use a buffer to achieve a clean, polished finish. * Clean engines and engine ...

Dahl Automotive

Entry-Level Automotive Detailer

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Join the Dahl Automotive team at our Reconditioning Center in Onalaska, WI -a non-guest-facing ... Apply wax and use a buffer to achieve a clean, polished finish. * Clean engines and engine ...

Dahl Automotive

Entry-Level Automotive Detailer

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Join the Dahl Automotive team at our Reconditioning Center in Onalaska, WI --a non-guest-facing ... Apply wax and use a buffer to achieve a clean, polished finish. * Clean engines and engine ...

Bolivar Motor Company, Inc

Automotive Detailer

Bolivar, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16/hr

Automotive Detailer Bolivar Ford, part of the Golden Circle Auto Group, is looking for a full time ... Operating cleaning equipment (buffer, steamer, vacuums). * Using chemical compounds such as ...

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All JobsAutomotive Buffer Jobs

Automotive Buffer information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do automotive buffer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive buffer in the United States is $17.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive buffer?

Automotive buffers are professionals responsible for polishing and finishing the exterior surfaces of vehicles to restore shine and remove imperfections. Their work involves using specialized buffing machines, pads, and compounds to correct paint defects like scratches, oxidation, and swirl marks. Automotive buffers play a crucial role in auto body shops, dealerships, and detailing centers, helping to enhance a car's appearance and protect its paint. Attention to detail, familiarity with various polishing tools, and knowledge of automotive paint types are important skills in this job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive buffer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Buffer, you need knowledge of automotive detailing processes, attention to surface preparation, and familiarity with various buffing techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Experience with buffer machines, polishing compounds, and safety equipment is essential for efficient and safe work. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality vehicle finishes, maintaining customer satisfaction, and ensuring workplace safety.

What are some common challenges an automotive buffer might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Automotive Buffers often encounter challenges such as working with a variety of paint finishes, removing tough imperfections, and maintaining consistency across large vehicle surfaces. Handling different types of buffing machines and compounds requires attention to detail and adaptability. To overcome these challenges, buffers benefit from ongoing training, following safety protocols, and collaborating closely with paint technicians and supervisors to ensure high-quality results. Staying up-to-date with the latest products and techniques also helps improve efficiency and finish quality.

What is the difference between Automotive Buffer vs Automotive Detailer?

AspectAutomotive BufferAutomotive Detailer
Primary RoleOperates polishing and buffing machines to restore vehicle paintPerforms comprehensive cleaning, polishing, and finishing of vehicles
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of polishing techniques, safety procedures, equipment handlingKnowledge of cleaning products, detailing techniques, customer service
Work EnvironmentAuto shops, detailing centers, dealershipsAuto shops, detailing centers, dealerships
Tools & EquipmentBuffer machines, polishing pads, abrasivesVacuum cleaners, polishers, cleaning supplies

While both roles are essential in vehicle appearance enhancement, an Automotive Buffer specializes in polishing and paint correction using buffing machines, whereas an Automotive Detailer provides comprehensive cleaning and finishing services. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service for vehicle maintenance.

More about Automotive Buffer jobs

What cities are hiring for Automotive Buffer jobs?

Cities with the most Automotive Buffer job openings:

What states have the most Automotive Buffer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automotive Buffer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Buffer jobs look for?

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Automotive Buffer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Buffer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,516 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Body Shop Buffer 2nd Shift - Hueneme Port Team

Hyundai Glovis

Port Hueneme, CA • On-site

$25.14/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Job description

About GLOVIS America Inc.
GLOVIS America, Inc. is a third-party logistics provider headquartered in Irvine, CA. Since our inception in 2002, we are committed to delivering our customer's products via truck, rail, or ocean vessel throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Glovis America makes every effort to exceed standards by providing quality service to our customers and vendors of the automotive, freight forwarding, parts distribution, used car, and fuel industries. We cater logistics strategies and processes to our customers' needs by utilizing the latest information systems and advanced technologies.
Summary
The Bodyshop Buffer is responsible for performing final-stage polishing, buffing, and cosmetic refinishing on vehicles to ensure they meet company quality standards prior to delivery, transport, or customer release. This role supports vehicle processing and logistics operations by restoring vehicle surfaces, removing imperfections, and maintaining a high-quality finish while ensuring safety, productivity, and attention to detail. Must be open for overtime.
Compensation
$24.64 per hour
Responsibilities
Perform vehicle buffing, polishing, waxing, and surface refinishing to remove scratches, swirl marks, oxidation, and minor paint imperfections.
Inspect vehicle surfaces before and after buffing to ensure quality and identify defects requiring escalation.
Use rotary buffers, polishers, sanding tools, and detailing equipment safely and effectively.
Assist with prep work including masking, cleaning, sanding, and surface preparation prior to polishing or refinishing.
Support paint correction and final finishing activities after body repair or paint application.
Maintain high-quality cosmetic appearance of vehicles before release to customers, dealerships, or transportation carriers.
Identify and report major damage, paint defects, or repair concerns to the Bodyshop Lead or Supervisor.
Ensure all work is completed according to production timelines and vehicle processing schedules.Other duties as assigned
Follow company safety procedures, PPE requirements, and OSHA regulations.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of bodyshop workstations, tools, and materials.
Assist in moving, staging, and positioning vehicles within the bodyshop or processing yard as needed.
Support overall bodyshop and vehicle logistics operations to minimize delays in processing and shipment readiness.
Document completed work orders, quality checks, and repairs as required.
Collaborate with paint technicians, repair technicians, quality inspectors, and operations teams.
Other duties as assigned.
Benefits of working at GLOVIS America Inc.
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Basic Life and AD&D as well as Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Vacation, 14 Holidays, and Sick leave
  • Hospital and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Wellness Program and Gym Reimbursement*
  • 401(k) with Generous Matching
  • Referral Bonuses*
  • Auto Allowance*
  • Quarterly Employee Lunches, Summer Refreshments, and Monthly Team Building Activities*
  • Discretionary Bonuses*
  • Tuition Reimbursement*

All benefits pursuant to Company policy
Skills
  • Knowledge of buffing compounds, polishing products, sanding materials, and refinishing technique
  • Ability to operate buffing/polishing equipment safely.
  • Understanding of paint finishes, clear coat protection, and cosmetic repair standards.
  • Ability to identify surface imperfections and maintain strong attention to detail.
  • Basic knowledge of vehicle safety and handling procedures.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume vehicle logistics or production environment.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Employees assigned to vehicle processing and accessory installation functions that utilize English-only client work orders must be able to read and understand English-language instructions and documentation necessary to safely and accurately complete assigned tasks

Education & Experience
  • H.S Diploma/G.E.D Required
  • 1 year of Bodyshop experience
  • Valid CA Driver's License Required

Glovis America, Inc. adheres to the equal employment opportunity guidelines set forth by federal, state, and local laws. The information requested on this form is sought in good faith and will not be used to discriminate against the applicant based on race, religion or creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristics, marital status, sex or gender (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, or related circumstances), gender identity, gender expression, age, citizenship, sexual orientation, family care or medical leave status, military and veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state and local laws.
Physical Requirements
  • Will be operating heavy machinery such as buffer machine
  • Must operate desktop, computers, laptop, printer, scanners, shredders, etc.
  • Constant use of hand/grasping product, writing, and typing
  • Stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, push, pull, squat, crouch for 5+ hours per day
  • Reach over shoulder 3-5 hours per day
  • Sit, drive 1-3 hours per day

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.
Working and Environmental Conditions
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
  • Exposure to change in temperature going in and out of bulidings
  • Exposure to dust, fumes, gases, auto exhaust
  • This position is located in the Port Hueneme, CA office

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of work performed by employees assigned to this position. They are not intended to be a complete list of all job duties performed by persons in the position. Glovis America reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time as the needs of the company and requirements of the job change.

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