1

Buffing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Use buffing machines to polish the surfaces of freshly painted vehicles, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. * Inspect painted surfaces for imperfections, such as orange peel, swirl marks, or scratches ...

Detailer/Car Washer

Escondido, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

This role is responsible for vehicle detailing as well as performing color sanding and buffing to achieve a high-quality paint finish on repaired vehicles. This is a full-time position with 40 hours ...

Must have floor care experience, which includes stripping and waxing and buffing Benefits For an a Floor Tech * Competitive Rates * Amazing Work Environment * Great Benefits Package * Referral ...

Floor Care Project Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Floor Technician Duties and Responsibilities * Assist with stripping, buffing, and waxing surfaces * Clean or shampoo carpets * Sweep and mop floors * Maintain equipment and supplies * Follow ...

Be Seen First

Duties include washing and cleaning vehicle interiors and exteriors, buffing and polishing paint, removing scratches and imperfections, and ensuring vehicles are finished to a high-quality standard.

We are seeking a skilled Aerospace Polisher / Buffing Technician to join a precision manufacturing team supporting aerospace component production. This role is responsible for performing complex ...

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Uses buffing compound, rouge, and pneumatic buffers; associates buff finished units to an acceptable surface appearance and gloss * Visually inspects parts before and after buffing to ensure that no ...

PARTS DETAILER

Brownwood, TX · On-site

$20.87/hr

Uses buffing compound, rouge, and pneumatic buffers, associate buffs finished units to an acceptable surface appearance and gloss * Visually inspects parts before and after buffing to ensure that no ...

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Custodian

Freeport, NY · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Custodian

Freeport, NY · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Custodian

Brookville, NY

$14.75 - $19/hr

Performs assigned tasks at cleaning sites including but not limited to carpet cleaning, stripping, waxing and buffing. * Assists in moving supplies and equipment as needed. * Notifies supervisor of ...

Showing results 21-40

Buffing information

See salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do buffing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for buffing 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buffing technician?

To thrive as a Buffer, you need practical knowledge of surface preparation, attention to detail, and familiarity with materials like metal, wood, or auto bodies, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Proficiency in using buffing machines, handheld power tools, and safety equipment is essential. Strong hand-eye coordination, patience, and a focus on quality help someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure effective finishing, safety, and consistent product quality in manufacturing or repair environments.

What is the difference between Buffing vs Polishing?

AspectBuffingPolishing
PurposeRemove surface imperfections and restore shine using abrasive pads or wheelsRefine surface to achieve a smooth, high-gloss finish
ToolsBuffing wheels, abrasive compoundsPolishing pads, finer abrasives, polishing compounds
Work EnvironmentAuto body shops, metal fabrication, automotive detailingAuto detailing, jewelry making, metal finishing
CredentialsBasic training, safety certificationsBasic training, safety certifications

Buffing and polishing are related surface finishing processes. Buffing primarily removes surface imperfections and restores shine, while polishing refines the surface to achieve a smooth, mirror-like finish. Both techniques often use similar tools and credentials, but they serve different stages in the finishing process.

What is buffing?

Buffing is a finishing process used to smooth, polish, or shine the surface of materials such as metal, wood, or plastic. Workers known as buffers or buffing technicians use specialized equipment like buffing wheels, compounds, and cloths to remove imperfections and achieve a high-gloss finish. This process is commonly used in industries like automotive, manufacturing, and jewelry making to enhance the appearance and quality of products. Buffing requires attention to detail and knowledge of the correct techniques and materials for different surfaces.

What are some common challenges faced by buffing professionals and how can they be addressed?

Buffing professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent surface quality, managing dust and debris, and handling repetitive motions that may lead to fatigue. To address these issues, it's important to use high-quality equipment, regularly change buffing pads, and follow proper safety procedures. Additionally, working in a well-ventilated area and taking scheduled breaks can help reduce physical strain and improve job performance.
More about Buffing jobs

What states have the most Buffing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Buffing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Buffing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,516 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Buffer - Kearny Mesa Chevrolet

sunroad

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Body Shop Buffer - Kearny Mesa Chevrolet

Non-Exempt
Job Summary:
The Body Shop Buffer (Post-Paint) is responsible for enhancing the appearance of vehicles after painting by performing buffing and polishing tasks. This role ensures that the final finish meets high-quality standards and provides customers with an exceptional product.

Essential Functions:

  • Use buffing machines to polish the surfaces of freshly painted vehicles, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Inspect painted surfaces for imperfections, such as orange peel, swirl marks, or scratches, and address them through appropriate buffing techniques.
  • Choose and apply the correct polishing compounds and pads based on the type of paint and desired finish.
  • Perform detailing tasks as needed, including cleaning and polishing trim, chrome, and other surfaces to enhance overall vehicle appearance.
  • Conduct thorough inspections to ensure that all buffed areas meet dealership quality standards before the vehicle is released to customers.
  • Work closely with painters and body shop technicians to understand the specifics of each job and ensure smooth workflow.
  • Maintain buffing equipment, ensuring it is clean, properly adjusted, and in good working condition.
  • Relocate vehicles within the shop to ensure proper functionality after repairs and to facilitate workflow and organization throughout the facility.
  • Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe work environment and handle all materials responsibly.
  • Maintain satisfactory attendance.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • None.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum 1 year of experience in buffing or polishing, particularly in a body shop or automotive environment.
  • Valid driver’s license and safe driving record; required to have California driver's license within 30 days following date of hire.
  • At least one year of verifiable driving experience.
  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • Ability to perform all essential functions of the job description.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to achieving high-quality results.
  • Familiarity with various polishing techniques and products.
  • Skilled in the safe and effective operation of buffing machines
  • Ability to identify imperfections and determine the best methods for correction.
  • Knowledge of safety protocols and proper handling of chemicals and equipment.
  • Willingness to collaborate with painters and technicians to ensure high-quality results.
  • Dependability in attendance and completing tasks in a timely manner.
  • Relevant certifications in automotive refinishing or detailing (e.g., I-CAR certifications).

Physical Demands: 

  • Frequently stands, walks, sits; uses hands; reaches with hands and arms; talks and hears. Occasionally climbs or balances; bend, stretch, stoops, kneels, crouches, squats or crawls to perform repairs and inspections; must lift up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel, and squat to perform repairs and inspections.
  • Manual dexterity to handle tools and small parts.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
  • Must be able to work in tight spaces.
  • Stand for prolonged periods of time.

Environment/Noise: 

  • Work in well-ventilated and well-lit repair shop.
  • Exposure to hazardous conditions and equipment that may result in minor injuries.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots may be required to ensure safety while handling parts and equipment.
  • Work both indoors and outdoors.
  • Noise level is moderate to loud.

Employee Benefits Include:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • Employer Paid AD&D
  • 401k (with Employer match)
  • Vacation Package
  • Tenure recognition and awards
  • Vehicle Purchase Discount Program
  • Vehicle Service Discount Program
  • Golf Benefits at Maderas Golf Club (subject to qualification)

If you receive an offer of employment, it will be a conditional offer contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Sunroad is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal employment opportunities and access to all programs, services, and activities. If you require accommodations to participate in the application process or to perform the essential functions of the job, please contact the HR Department to discuss your needs confidentially. We will work with you to identify appropriate accommodations based on your specific circumstances and in compliance with applicable laws.

 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V) and maintain a drug-free workplace. If you receive an offer of employment, it will be a conditional offer contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Sunroad is an Equal Employment opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection,  race (including traits historically associated with race such as hair texture and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); religion; religious creed; religious dress/grooming; color; age (40 and over); sex; sexual orientation; gender; gender identity (meaning a person’s identification as male, female, a gender different from the person’s sex at birth, or transgender); gender expression (including a person’s gender-related appearance or behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s sex at birth); national origin; ancestry; citizenship status; uniform service member status; military or veteran status; marital status; pregnancy; childbirth; medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breast feeding; medical condition (including cancer related or HIV/AIDS related); handicap; physical disability; mental disability; genetic characteristics; genetic information; or any other protected status in accordance with the requirements of all federal, state and local laws.  Our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy applies equally to interns and volunteers.