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Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Gerber Collision & Glass

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Addison, IL · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers Competitive Pay ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Prepper

Addison, IL · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Prepper

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$40K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers Competitive Pay ...

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All JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper JobsEntry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper JobsEntry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do entry level auto body paint prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level auto body paint prepper in Chicago, IL is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an entry level auto body paint prepper, and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Auto Body Paint Preppers often face challenges such as maintaining consistency in surface preparation, managing time effectively to meet tight deadlines, and ensuring a dust-free environment for optimal paint adhesion. Attention to detail is crucial, as even minor imperfections can affect the final paint finish. To overcome these challenges, it's important to follow established procedures, communicate clearly with team members, and stay organized throughout each step of the prep process. Many shops also provide mentorship or ongoing training to help new preppers build their skills and confidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level auto body paint prepper, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper, you need a basic understanding of automotive bodywork, attention to detail, and familiarity with surface preparation techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with sanding tools, masking equipment, and safety gear such as respirators is typically required, and OSHA safety certification can be beneficial. Strong work ethic, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure surfaces are properly prepared for painting, contributing to high-quality finishes and efficient workflow in an auto body shop.

What does an entry level auto body paint prepper do?

An Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing vehicles for painting in an auto body shop. Their duties typically include washing and sanding surfaces, masking off areas that shouldn't be painted, and ensuring that vehicles are clean and free of debris before paint is applied. This role is essential for achieving a high-quality paint finish and often serves as a starting point for more advanced positions in auto body repair and painting.

What is the difference between Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper vs Entry Level Auto Body Painter?

AspectEntry Level Auto Body Paint PrepperEntry Level Auto Body Painter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic training
Work EnvironmentAuto body shops, collision repair centersAuto body shops, collision repair centers
Job FocusPreparing surfaces, sanding, maskingApplying paint, finishing coats
Common UsagePrepares vehicles for paintingCompletes the painting process

While both roles work in auto body repair shops and require similar certifications, the Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper focuses on surface preparation tasks like sanding and masking, whereas the Entry Level Auto Body Painter is responsible for applying paint and finishing coats. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in auto collision repair.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs near you

Entry-Level Auto Body Paint Technician

Dent Wizard

Highland, IN • On-site, Remote

$70K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Dent Wizard rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 363 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

For a quick application text APPLY1 to 82174
About Dent Wizard
Dent Wizard is the nation's undisputed leader in automotive reconditioning services and vehicle protection products - and our success is the result of the great people who serve our customers. We're stable, growing and have a strong business model, with opportunities in 43 states, 2.5 million vehicles repaired every year and more than 3,000 highly skilled employees. Help us reach new heights and receive the respect, rewards and recognition you deserve.
Auto Body Paint Technician Trainee
Training: Fully Paid (Includes Travel, Food, and Transportation)
Training compensation at the hourly rate, then phased combo compensation of hourly rate and commission as you move out of training and start building your customer base!
Commission-based uncapped earning potential.
Long-term earning potential: $70,000-$150,000+
This position is 100% commission based. Actual earnings will vary based on individual performance.
Do you enjoy working with customers and being on the move? Do you have a passion for making something better than you found it? Join our growing team as a Paint Technician Trainee and start a rewarding career with uncapped earning potential!
What You'll Do:
  • Travel to automotive customers to perform high-quality minor paint touch-ups to full surface repairs using advanced spray equipment and proven techniques

  • Prep, blend, and finish vehicle surfaces to perfection

  • Work independently at partner locations like dealerships, rental agencies, and auctions

  • Deliver fast, flawless results that exceed expectations

What We're Looking for:
  • Self-motivation, grit, and a strong work ethic

  • Strong attention to detail and color accuracy

  • Great communication skills and a customer-first mindset

  • Detail-oriented with a passion for quality and precision

  • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions

  • Manual dexterity for repetitive-motion tasks

  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently

  • Valid driver's license and a good driving record

  • Physical ability to kneel, bend, squat, and lift up to 45 lbs

What we offer:
  • No experience necessary - we provide comprehensive, paid training (includes travel and lodging)

  • Unlimited, uncapped earning potential - the harder you work, the more you can make

  • Excellent benefits - medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid vacation, and more

  • Awesome perks - tools and supplies, company vehicle, gas card, mobile phone, and more

  • Independence - manage your day without micromanagement

  • Supportive team - work with a fun, dynamic crew that's got your back

  • Ongoing training - including color matching systems and certifications with PPG, BASF, and more

  • Clear career path - five levels from Senior Tech to World-Class Tech, with bonuses and recognition at every step

All candidates selected for offer will undergo post-offer, pre-employment screening appropriate to the role. This may include, but is not limited to, a physical examination, vision assessment, background check, and drug screening. Any such screening will be appropriate for the role, the same for all employees entering the same job category, and conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
**In accordance with NIOSH Respiratory Protection Standards Dent Wizard Technicians are required to wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the form of a respirator.
The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
The starting compensation is expected to be:
$21.00/hour
We offer a competitive & comprehensive benefit package including: paid time off, medical, dental, vision, and 401k match (50% on the dollar up to 7% of employee contribution). For more information on our benefit offerings, please visit our Dealer Tire Family of Companies Benefits Highlights Booklet.
EOE Statement: Dent Wizard is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act*), or any other legally protected status, with respect to employment opportunities.
*ADA Disclosure: Any candidate who feels that they may need an accommodation to complete this application, or any portions of same, based on the impact of a disability should contact Dent Wizard's Human Resources Department to discuss your specific needs. Please feel free to contact us at recruiting@dentwizard.com.

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