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Automotive Paint Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tint Heaven

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Apprentice Installer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

What You'll Learn As an Automotive Restyling Apprentice, you will receive hands-on training in ... Automotive Window Tint Installation * Vinyl Wrap Installation * Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Adler Pelzer Group

Sand/Prep Autobody Technician

Salem, VA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

Experience in automotive paint and body repair. * Experience in paint surfaces, paint sprayers, and ... Certifications from apprentice or training programs preferred. Benefits for the Painter/Finisher:

Mobile Civil Service

Body/Paint Mechanic I

Mobile, AL

$48K - $76K/yr

... an apprenticeship or trade school program in automotive body painting and repair, and a minimum of ... one year of journeyman level experience in automotive body repair and painting; or a combination of ...

Hudson Automotive Group

Body Shop Painter

Nashville, TN · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... Paint Technician to join our award winning, high-volume service team. Hudson Automotive Group ... Supervises work of any apprentice technicians as assigned. * Reports machinery defects or ...

Hudson Automotive Group

Body Shop Painter

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60 - $150/hr

... Paint Technician to join our award winning, high-volume service team. Hudson Automotive Group ... Supervises work of any apprentice technicians as assigned. * Reports machinery defects or ...

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Automotive Paint Apprentice information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do automotive paint apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive paint apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Paint Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of vehicle preparation, paint mixing, and surface refinishing, typically gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with spray guns, paint booths, sanding tools, and safety equipment is essential, and OSHA certification is often beneficial. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and good communication skills help apprentices adapt quickly and contribute positively to the team. These skills ensure high-quality finishes, workplace safety, and reliable teamwork in a demanding automotive environment.

What is the difference between Automotive Paint Apprentice vs Automotive Body Repair Technician?

AspectAutomotive Paint ApprenticeAutomotive Body Repair Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAuto body shops, dealerships, or collision centersAuto body shops, collision repair centers, dealerships
Job FocusLearning paint application, surface preparation, and finishing techniquesRepairing vehicle bodies, replacing panels, and restoring vehicle structure
Common Search IntentEntry-level paint training, apprenticeship programsCollision repair, bodywork skills, technician roles

The Automotive Paint Apprentice primarily focuses on learning paint application and finishing techniques, often working under supervision. In contrast, the Automotive Body Repair Technician handles broader collision repairs, including structural fixes and panel replacements. Both roles are essential in auto repair shops and share similar work environments, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges Automotive Paint Apprentices face when learning new techniques on the job?

Automotive Paint Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise spray techniques, ensuring consistent color matching, and learning to properly prepare surfaces to avoid defects like runs or orange peel. Working in a busy shop environment, apprentices must also adapt to different vehicle types and adjust to varying paint formulations and drying times. Regular feedback from experienced technicians and supervisors helps apprentices develop their skills and confidence over time, making persistence and attention to detail important qualities for success.

What does an Automotive Paint Apprentice do?

An Automotive Paint Apprentice assists experienced automotive painters in preparing and painting vehicles. Their responsibilities typically include masking, sanding, priming surfaces, mixing paints, and applying undercoats. Apprentices learn proper techniques for prepping vehicles, using spray equipment, and following safety protocols. This role is designed to provide hands-on training and knowledge needed to become a qualified automotive painter.
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Automotive Paint Apprentice jobs near you

Painter/Finisher - Multiple Shifts

Adler Pelzer Group

Salem, VA

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

STS Group is a globally leading supplier of components and systems for the commercial vehicle and automotive industries headquartered in France. The Adler Pelzer Group, a global Tier 1 supplier recently acquired STS group to expand its target market. STS is pioneering operations of Class A surface components for the heavy trucks in the USA. We are seeking an experienced Painters/Finishers to support the opening of the brand-new STS facility near Salem, Virginia in the Roanoke, VA area.

Responsibilities of the Painter/Finisher:

  • Sprays surfaces of, manufactured products, or producat area with protective or decorative material, such as primer, paint, enamel, using spray gun: Cleans grease and dirt from product, using materials, such as lacquer thinner, soap, and water.
  • Applies masking tape over parts and areas that are not to be coated.
  • May manually manipulate parts into the proper carrier/hanger to provide for proper spraying/drying
  • Sands/preps the primer surface to include removing defects and to fill cavities and dents with body filler and putty to attain smooth surface.
  • Selects and mixes coating liquid to produce desired color, according to specifications, using paddle or mechanical mixer.
  • Pours coating liquid into spray container and connects gun to air hose.
  • Turns sprayer valves and nozzle to regulate width and pressure of spray according to knowledge of painting technique.
  • Pulls trigger and directs spray onto work surface to apply prime or finish coat.
  • Cleans spraying equipment and brushes with solvent.
  • Capable of doing spot repair on parts, using blending clear to cut in edges.
  • Wet sand small defects and buff paint back to original shine. 

Requirements for the Painter/Finisher include:

  • Experience in automotive paint and body repair.
  • Experience in paint surfaces, paint sprayers, and paint booths preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal/written).
  • Excellent visual acuity to identify flaws in Class A painted surfaces.
  • High school diploma or GED. 
  • Certifications from apprentice or training programs preferred. 

Benefits for the Painter/Finisher:

  • Competitive pay and generous benefits package along with the opportunity to be a part of a strong team and growing one’s career
  • Salary range is $25-$28/hour. Specific salary is commensurate with experience and factors such as relevant experience, education, certifications and licenses, skills, and training.
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance options from day one
  • Generous and flexible paid time off
  • 401(K) match, fully vested
  • Company provided life insurance, short term and long-term disability insurances, employee assistance program
  • Variety of automobile purchase discounts (Stellantis (FCA), BMW, Ford, GM, Subaru-many others)
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development

Physical and Working Environment:

  • Exposed to hazardous conditions such as dust, fumes, and spray - respirators are required. 
  • Manufacturing environment, heat and cold conditions may be extreme at times based on weather.
  • Considered medium to heavy work physically. 

Note: This section is not inclusive, other duties are assigned as necessary to support team goals. 

Adler Pelzer Group and STS provides sponsorship for employment visa status based on business need. However, for this role, applicants must be currently and in the future authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. 

No Unauthorized Referrals from Recruiters & Vendors

We are an equal opportunity employer. STS participate in the E-Verify Program.

We are proud to continue this story and to build the foundations for a brighter future for generations to come. We are the Adler Pelzer Group, a worldwide leader in the design, engineering, manufacturing of acoustical and thermal components and systems for the automotive sector. We deliver acoustic performance and increase thermal efficiency, in order to achieve the best in comfort for the vehicles of our customers.

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