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Automotive Painter Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Painter

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Why This Role Matters The Painter helps maintain the appearance, safety and condition of company-owned buildings by delivering high-quality interior and exterior finishes that support ongoing ...

Painter

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Why This Role Matters The Painter helps maintain the appearance, safety and condition of company-owned buildings by delivering high-quality interior and exterior finishes that support ongoing ...

Paid Weekly CertaPro Painters ® is looking for experienced painting crews to start painting right away! Get more local work now! If your crew is looking for immediate work painting homes and ...

Painter

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$40/hr

The Painter is responsible for refinishing vehicles to meet pre-accident condition or industry standards of quality. The painter oversees paint department and assistants / prep techs and reports to ...

PAINTER

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$28.16/hr

This National Guard position is for a PAINTER, Position Description Number D2127000. Qualifications: Military Grades : Enlisted (E-8 and below) GENERAL EXPERIENCE : Experience or training which ...

Automotive Sr Detailer

Albuquerque, NM

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Familiarity with paint correction, buffing, or ceramic coating. * Strong time-management skills to ... Xcite Automotive is a fast-growing automotive service and a software-based company that helps ...

Structural Steel Painter

Bernalillo, NM

$17.50 - $24/hr

Structural Steel Painter Location: Phat Steel, Inc, 101 Calle Industrial, Bernalillo NM, 87004 Department: Production Reports To: Production Manager Job Summary: The Structural Steel Painter is ...

Structural Steel Painter

Bernalillo, NM

$17.50 - $24/hr

Structural Steel Painter Location: amfabsteel, Inc, 100 Calle Industrial, Bernalillo NM, 87004 Department: Production Reports To: Production Manager Job Summary: The Structural Steel Painter is ...

We are looking for journeymen painters. JTC, Inc. is a 55 year old commercial and industrial painting and coatings contractor that speacializes in large scale projects. We have a long history of ...

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Automotive Painter information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$23

$42

How much do automotive painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive painter in Rio Rancho, NM is $23.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Painter, you need expertise in surface preparation, color matching, and paint application techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with spray guns, paint booths, sanding equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and good hand-eye coordination are key soft skills that help produce a flawless finish. These skills ensure high-quality, durable paint jobs that meet industry standards and customer expectations.

Are automotive painters in demand?

Automotive painters are in steady demand due to ongoing vehicle manufacturing, repair, and customization needs. Skilled painters with knowledge of modern paints and equipment are especially sought after in auto body shops and dealerships.

How much do car paint jobs make?

Automotive painters typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled painters with certifications and experience working with advanced tools can earn higher wages, especially in high-demand areas or specialized shops.

What is the difference between Automotive Painter vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAutomotive PainterAuto Body Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, spray painting certificationsHigh school diploma, collision repair certifications
Work EnvironmentAuto body shops, dealerships, manufacturing plantsCollision repair shops, auto body repair facilities
Primary DutiesApplying paint, finishing vehicle surfacesRepairing vehicle bodies, replacing panels
Industry UsageAuto manufacturing, repair shopsCollision repair, auto body shops

While both roles work closely in vehicle repair, an Automotive Painter specializes in applying paint and finishing vehicle surfaces, whereas an Auto Body Technician focuses on repairing and replacing damaged vehicle bodies. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or service.

What does an automotive painter do?

An automotive painter is responsible for preparing and applying paint to vehicles, ensuring a smooth and visually appealing finish. They repair the vehicle’s surface by sanding, masking, and priming, then use specialized equipment to apply paint according to precise color specifications. Automotive painters work in auto body shops, dealerships, or manufacturing plants, and must be skilled in color matching and finishing techniques. Their work helps restore vehicles after damage or customize them to a customer's preferences.

What Does an Automotive Painter Do?

The job of an automotive painter is to use spray paint tools and other equipment to paint a vehicle for a client. This may be done as part of the initial manufacturing process or as part of repair work. People in this position also help prepare vehicles and parts for painting, finish the process by applying additional protective layers, and coordinate with other staff members to meet work demands. An automotive painter is often responsible for accurately blending colors, managing the stages of painting, and maintaining a proper painting environment. On occasion, they may be asked to work overtime to complete a job on time. Most automotive painters focus on standard car and truck paint jobs, but a few specialize in other areas like commercial transport trucks or unique patterns and designs.

What does a full paint job cost on a car?

An automotive painter typically estimates a full car paint job to cost between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on the vehicle size, paint quality, and prep work required. Higher-end jobs with custom finishes or extensive bodywork can cost more. Proper preparation and skill are essential for a quality finish in this profession.

Are car paint jobs worth it?

For an automotive painter, car paint jobs are worth it as they involve skills in surface preparation, color matching, and applying high-quality finishes, which can enhance vehicle appearance and value. The job often requires knowledge of spray guns, paint types, and safety protocols, making it a skilled and in-demand profession.

What are some common challenges Automotive Painters face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Automotive Painters often encounter challenges such as matching paint colors precisely, working with varying vehicle surfaces, and ensuring a dust-free environment for a flawless finish. Addressing these challenges usually involves meticulous surface preparation, using advanced color-matching technology, and operating in well-ventilated, controlled spray booths. Teamwork is also essential, as painters frequently collaborate with body technicians and detailers to deliver high-quality results on tight deadlines.
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Painter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Automotive Painter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Painter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Painter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Painter job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,210 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Body Shop - Painter Position

Quality Buick GMC

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Body Shop Painter - Collision Center
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Quality Dealerships has an immediate opening for an experienced Auto Body Painter in our quality-driven Collision Center. If you take pride in flawless finishes, precise color match, and on-time delivery, you'll fit right in with our team.
Why You'll Love This Role
  • Competitive, performance-based pay plan
  • Monday-Friday schedule (weekends off)
  • Clean booth, strong prep support, organized workflow
  • Modern mixing room and color tools to reduce rework
  • Paid training (I-CAR/OEM) and clear advancement path
  • Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, retirement)

Core Responsibilities
  • Perform full refinish operations: prime, seal, base, blend, clear, and bake per OEM procedures
  • Color identification and matching using camera/spectro and variant decks; execute blends as required
  • Surface prep, masking, jambs/edges, panel and multi-panel refinishes
  • Defect control: nib, sand, buff/polish to deliver showroom finish
  • Material management: proper mix ratios, gun setup, and booth housekeeping
  • Document work performed; collaborate with estimators and body techs for quality and cycle time
  • Follow all safety, PPE, and environmental/paint manufacturer guidelines

What You'll Bring
  • 2+ years professional automotive refinish experience
  • Expertise in color matching, blending, and finish quality
  • Experience with waterborne and solvent systems
  • Strong booth discipline, cleanliness, and time management
  • Valid driver's license and insurable driving record

Nice to Have
  • I-CAR Refinish certifications (or in progress)
  • OEM certification experience (any brand)
  • Familiarity with digital color tools and spectrophotometers
  • Plastic refinishing, tri-stage, matte/satin finishes

Shop Tools & Process
  • Downdraft/bake booth with routine maintenance and filter service
  • Computerized paint mixing system with variant decks and color camera
  • Dedicated mixing room, UV primers, dust extraction, clean prep areas
  • Documented QC flow with pre/post scan requirements where applicable

How We Measure Success
  • Finish quality (defect/rework rate near zero)
  • Accurate color match and blend transitions
  • Cycle time & touch time aligned to the repair plan
  • Material usage efficiency and booth discipline
  • Customer satisfaction scores and team collaboration

Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive pay plan based on experience and certifications
  • Health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits
  • Paid training and certification opportunities
  • Weekends off for work-life balance

About Quality Dealerships
We're a well-established, customer-focused dealership group with a track record of quality repairs and a culture of teamwork. Join a shop that backs its painters with parts, process, and pride.