1

Car Detailer Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Car Detailer

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM

$14 - $17.25/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Albuquerque, NM

$13.75 - $17/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Rio Rancho, NM

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Corrales, NM · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Automotive Sr Detailer

Albuquerque, NM

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

As an Automotive Detailer, you will be responsible for providing top-notch cleaning, polishing, and ... Takes out unwanted materials when needed- Keep the car wash area clean/organized * Utilize special ...

Car Dealership Detailer

Corrales, NM

$14 - $16.75/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Dealership Detailer

Albuquerque, NM

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

... detail. * Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Car Detailer information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$9

$14

$17

How much do car detailer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for car detailer in Rio Rancho, NM is $14.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $16.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Car Detailer faces during a typical workday?

Car Detailers often encounter challenges such as working in various weather conditions, dealing with stubborn stains or odors, and managing tight schedules to meet customer expectations. The job can be physically demanding, requiring attention to detail and stamina for repetitive tasks like washing, waxing, and vacuuming. Effective communication with team members and customers is also important to ensure satisfaction and handle special requests.

What is the difference between Car Detailer vs Car Washer?

AspectCar DetailerCar Washer
CredentialsNone required, but certifications in detailing can helpTypically no certifications needed
Work EnvironmentIndoor detailing shops, dealerships, or mobile servicesCar wash facilities, drive-thru stations, or outdoor locations
Job ResponsibilitiesComprehensive cleaning, polishing, interior detailing, and cosmetic restorationBasic exterior washing and rinsing
Industry UsageUsed across auto dealerships, detailing shops, and mobile servicesCommonly found at car washes and quick-service stations

While both Car Detailers and Car Washers clean vehicles, Car Detailers perform more thorough and detailed work, including interior cleaning and cosmetic restoration. Car Washers focus mainly on exterior washing and rinsing. The roles differ in scope, skills, and environment, with Car Detailers offering a more comprehensive service.

How much does a car detailer make per car?

Car detailers typically do not earn a fixed amount per car but are paid hourly or by the job, with average earnings ranging from $10 to $20 per hour. Some detailers may charge customers a flat fee per vehicle, usually between $50 and $150 depending on the size and condition of the car, but earnings per car vary based on the service complexity and location.

What Is a Car Detailer?

Car detailers maintain and clean the interior and exterior of a vehicle. An auto detailer works for car washes. They may also work for auto dealerships or repair garages. A car detailer's responsibilities include washing, vacuuming, waxing, and polishing the car inside and out. They will remove caked on mud or grease, and use brushes and drying towels on exterior trim and tires.

Is detailing cars a good career?

Car detailing can be a viable career for those interested in automotive care, offering opportunities in auto shops, dealerships, or mobile services. It typically requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of cleaning products and techniques; certifications are not mandatory but can enhance job prospects.

What does a car detailer do?

A car detailer is responsible for cleaning, restoring, and finishing both the interior and exterior of vehicles to ensure they look their best. This includes washing, waxing, polishing, vacuuming, shampooing carpets, cleaning upholstery, and treating surfaces like leather and plastic. Detailers may also remove minor scratches and stains, apply protective coatings, and sometimes perform light cosmetic touch-ups. Their work helps maintain the appearance and value of vehicles for both personal owners and businesses.

Is $300 a lot for car detailing?

For a car detailer, $300 can be considered high for standard interior and exterior detailing, which typically costs between $50 and $150 depending on the vehicle size and services. Premium or extensive detailing services, such as paint correction or ceramic coating, may justify higher prices, but most basic jobs are less expensive. Pricing varies based on location, service quality, and the detailer's experience.

Is becoming a detailer worth it?

Becoming a car detailer can be a worthwhile job for those interested in vehicle care, offering opportunities for entry-level work and skill development in cleaning, polishing, and detailing techniques. The job typically involves physical work and may require attention to detail and customer service skills, with pay rates varying by location and experience. Career advancement can include supervisory roles or specialization in certain detailing services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Car Detailer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Detailer, you need a keen eye for detail, knowledge of vehicle cleaning techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning products, polishing tools, vacuum systems, and sometimes steam cleaners is important for efficient and safe detailing. Excellent customer service, time management, and reliability are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure vehicles are cleaned to high standards, leading to customer satisfaction and repeat business.
What are popular job titles related to Car Detailer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Car Detailer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Car Detailer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Car Detailer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Car Detailer jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Car Detailer job openings:
Infographic showing various Car Detailer job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,339 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Car Detailer

Car Detailer

Carmax

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM

$14 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 367 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 715 rated retailers


Job description

7194 - Albuquerque - 5500 Alameda Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87113CarMax, the way your career should be! 

Position Overview

As a Cosmetic Reconditioning Associate II at CarMax, you’ll play a vital role in delivering best-in-class vehicles to our customers. You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such as paint touch-up, wet sanding, and buffing. Your work ensures every CarMax vehicle meets our high standards for quality and appearance, helping customers feel confident in their purchase.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Execute standardized cosmetic reconditioning processes at an established pace to maintain efficiency and quality.
  • Perform advanced cosmetic repairs including paint touch-up, wet sanding, and buffing to restore vehicles to CarMax standards.
  • Complete cosmetic and final quality inspections to ensure vehicles meet customer-ready standards.
  • Identify defects and determine the best repair methods for optimal results.
  • Support auction preparation and assist with vehicle movement on and off the lot.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service, collaborate with team members to achieve goals, support auction preparation, and assist with vehicle movement on and off the lot
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Completion of all CarMax training programs, including online and hands-on modules.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and record data accurately for inventory and quality control.
  • Skilled in performing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods.
  • Strong communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
  • Willingness to work in indoor and outdoor conditions, including inclement weather.

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


What CarMax employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom