As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Quick apply
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Automotive Prepper
Exeter, CA · On-site
$22/hr
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Quick apply
Automotive Prepper
Exeter, CA · On-site
$22/hr
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Automotive Prepper
Exeter, CA · On-site
$22/hr
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Quick apply
Automotive Prepper
Exeter, CA · On-site
$22/hr
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve ...
Automotive Prepper/Painter
Exeter, CA · On-site
$18 - $32/hr
As an Automotive Technician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicles. You must be comfortable using the dealership's computer software and have extensive knowledge of vehicle ...
Quick apply
Automotive Prepper/Painter
Exeter, CA · On-site
$18 - $32/hr
As an Automotive Technician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and repairing vehicles. You must be comfortable using the dealership's computer software and have extensive knowledge of vehicle ...
Automotive Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$18 - $24/hr
Automotive Paint Prepper $18.00 - $24.00 Per Hour, DOE Classic Collision is now hiring an Autobody Paint Prepper. Classic Collision was established in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia with one single goal:
Automotive Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$18 - $24/hr
Automotive Paint Prepper $18.00 - $24.00 Per Hour, DOE Classic Collision is now hiring an Autobody Paint Prepper. Classic Collision was established in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia with one single goal:
Automotive Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$18 - $24/hr
Automotive Paint Prepper $18.00 - $24.00 Per Hour, DOE Classic Collision is now hiring an Autobody Paint Prepper. Classic Collision was established in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia with one single goal:
Automotive Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$18 - $24/hr
Automotive Paint Prepper $18.00 - $24.00 Per Hour, DOE Classic Collision is now hiring an Autobody Paint Prepper. Classic Collision was established in 1983 in Atlanta, Georgia with one single goal:
Paint Prepper/Detailer
Corona, CA · On-site
$20 - $27/hr
Paint Prepper with Detail Duties Auto Paint Prepper with Detailer Duties The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of ...
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Paint Prepper/Detailer
Corona, CA · On-site
$20 - $27/hr
Paint Prepper with Detail Duties Auto Paint Prepper with Detailer Duties The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Bruno, CA · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Bruno, CA · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
Oakland, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
Oakland, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Leandro, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Leandro, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Leandro, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Quick apply
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Leandro, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Bruno, CA · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Quick apply
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Bruno, CA · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Quick apply
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper Department: Operations Reports to: Location Manager-Lead Painter Position Summary ... Preferred Qualifications: * 1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
Oakland, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Quick apply
Autobody Collision Paint Prepper
Oakland, CA · On-site
$20/hr
Position Title: Paint Prepper Department: OperationsReports to: Location Manager-Lead ... Preferred Qualifications:1-year automotive paint prep experience. Benefits: Paid holidays and 2 ...
Paint Prepper/Detailer
Corona, CA · On-site
Paint Prepper with Detail Duties The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of a Lead Painter. The paint helper must ...
Paint Prepper/Detailer
Corona, CA · On-site
Paint Prepper with Detail Duties The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of a Lead Painter. The paint helper must ...
Auto Body Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$40K - $60K/yr
... Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll prepare vehicles for ... Strong knowledge of automotive surface preparation techniques, including sanding techniques ...
Quick apply
Auto Body Paint Prepper
Van Nuys, CA · On-site
$40K - $60K/yr
... Prepper to join our collision repair team. In this hands-on role, you'll prepare vehicles for ... Strong knowledge of automotive surface preparation techniques, including sanding techniques ...
Automotive Prepper information
See California salary details
$12.10 - $14.34
2% of jobs
$14.34 - $16.58
11% of jobs
$18.05 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.58 - $18.83
19% of jobs
$18.83 - $21.07
15% of jobs
The median wage is $21.59 / hr.
$21.07 - $23.31
16% of jobs
$23.31 - $25.56
7% of jobs
$27.52 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.56 - $27.80
6% of jobs
$27.80 - $30.04
7% of jobs
$30.04 - $32.29
8% of jobs
$32.29 - $34.53
5% of jobs
$34.53 - $36.77
3% of jobs
$12
$23
$36
How much do automotive prepper jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive prepper in California is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an automotive prepper?
An Automotive Prepper is a professional responsible for preparing vehicles for painting. Their duties typically include sanding, masking, cleaning, and applying primers to vehicle surfaces to ensure the paint adheres properly and produces a high-quality finish. They also inspect vehicles for imperfections, repair minor damage, and ensure all surfaces are smooth and free of contaminants before the painting process begins. Automotive Preppers often work closely with auto body technicians and painters in collision repair shops or automotive service centers.
What are some common challenges automotive preppers face during the vehicle refinishing process?
Automotive Preppers often encounter challenges such as ensuring surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and properly masked to prevent paint contamination or overspray. Managing time efficiently while maintaining high attention to detail is crucial, as prepping errors can lead to costly rework. Additionally, working in fast-paced environments means Preppers must coordinate closely with painters and body technicians to keep projects on schedule. Staying up-to-date with safety procedures and handling various chemicals and equipment safely is also an important aspect of the role.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive prepper, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Automotive Prepper, you need a good understanding of vehicle surface preparation, sanding, masking techniques, and attention to detail, often supported by experience in auto body repair or a related field. Familiarity with tools like sanders, spray guns, and masking systems, as well as knowledge of safety protocols and sometimes an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification, is valuable. Strong time management, teamwork, and a commitment to quality help set top candidates apart. These skills are critical to ensuring vehicles are properly prepared for painting, resulting in high-quality finishes and efficient workflow in auto body shops.
What is the difference between Automotive Prepper vs Auto Detailer?
| Aspect | Automotive Prepper | Auto Detailer |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | None required, but certifications in auto body or prep may help | None required, some may have certifications in detailing |
| Work Environment | Auto shops, collision centers, prep stations | Car dealerships, detailing shops, auto salons |
| Job Focus | Preparing vehicles for painting or repair, masking, sanding | Cleaning, polishing, and cosmetic enhancement of vehicles |
Automotive Preppers focus on preparing vehicles for painting or repairs, involving masking and surface prep, while Auto Detailers concentrate on cleaning and beautifying vehicles. Both roles require attention to detail but differ in their primary tasks and work environments.
What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Prepper jobs?
Cities in California with the most Automotive Prepper job openings:
Automotive Prepper
Exeter, CA
Calvin Wayne Cox
$22/hr
Full-time
Re-posted 23 days ago
Job description
Benefits/Perks
- Careers Advancement Opportunities
- Competitive Compensation
- Benefits package
Job Summary
We are looking for an Automotive Prepper to join our successful dealership service center.
As an Automotive Prepper, you will be responsible for prepping vehicles surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, priming, and ensuring a smooth finish. They work closely with painters to achieve high-quality results
If you have a “never give up” attitude and are willing to problem-solve until you find the best solution for the customer, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities:
- Surface Preparation: Sanding, masking, and priming vehicle surfaces to ensure a smooth and flawless paint application.
- Inspection: Identifying imperfections, scratches, or dents that require repair before painting.
- Paint Mixing & Application Support: Assisting in mixing and applying primers or undercoats to prepare surfaces for painting.
- Masking & Protection: Using masking tape and other materials to protect areas that should not be painted.
- Cleaning & Maintenance: Keeping workspaces clean and organized while adhering to safety protocols.
- Collaboration: Working closely with painters to ensure proper color matching and application techniques.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED is required
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is often required.
- Experience: Previous experience in auto body preparation or a related field is highly valued. Five or more years of experience.
- Technical Skills: Ability to operate tools such as sanders, buffers, and spray-painting equipment.
- Training: Some employers provide on-the-job training, but attending a trade school for auto body painting or repair can be beneficial.
- Attention to Detail: Strong ability to identify imperfections and ensure surfaces are properly prepped for painting.
- Safety Knowledge: Understanding of workplace safety protocols and handling of hazardous materials
Compensation is negotiable depending on experience.