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Entry Level Automotive Refinish Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KNIESELS COLLISION INC

Paint Apprentice

Rocklin, CA

$18 - $35/hr

The Paint Apprentice is an entry-level position designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in automotive refinishing. Under the guidance of experienced painters ...

Leif Johnson Ford

PORTER

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... has an interest in automobiles , our immediate opening is for porter , this is an entry level ... auto refinishing or autobody repair whichever direction you would like to go .Pay is very ...

Leif Johnson Ford

PORTER

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... has an interest in automobiles , our immediate opening is for porter , this is an entry level ... auto refinishing or autobody repair whichever direction you would like to go .Pay is very ...

Leif Johnson Ford

PORTER

Austin, TX · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

... has an interest in automobiles , our immediate opening is for porter , this is an entry level ... auto refinishing or autobody repair whichever direction you would like to go .Pay is very ...

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Entry Level Automotive Refinish information

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How much do entry level automotive refinish jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level automotive refinish in the United States is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Refinish jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Refinish jobs are:
Entry Level Automotive Refinish jobs near you
Automotive Paint Prepper - Entry Level - Trainee

Automotive Paint Prepper - Entry Level - Trainee

Dent Wizard

Daly City, CA

$24.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Dent Wizard rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

148th of 332 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.

As a Tech - Paint Prepper, your essential job functions include: 

Supporting one or more of our Paint Technicians, you will wash vehicles, locate, and remove imperfections on panels and treat scratches and chips with plastic or liquid filler. You’ll tape up the cars, so we paint only the parts of the car that are intended, and smooth rough spots. After painting, you’ll remove the tape, clean the vehicle, and prepare it for buffing. 

Perform the following items (60%) 

Surface Preparation: 

  • Thoroughly inspect wheels for damage, cracks, bends, or other issues. 

  • Evaluate the extent of damage to determine the repair or refurbishment required. 

  • Inspect surfaces to be painted and assess their condition. 

  • Remove dirt, dust, and contaminants from surfaces using cleaning agents, solvents, and other appropriate methods. 

Sanding and Smoothing:  

  • Sand surfaces create a smooth and uniform texture, ensuring proper adhesion for paint. 

  • Repair minor imperfections or damage in surfaces, such as dents or scratches. 

Masking and Taping:  

  • Apply masking tape, paper, or other protective materials to areas that should not be painted. 

  • Cover windows, trim, or any parts that need to be shielded from paint.  

Priming:  

  • Apply primer to surfaces to enhance paint adhesion and corrosion resistance.  

  • Sand primed surfaces to achieve a smooth finish. 

Quality Control and Service Excellence (30%) 

  • Clean and maintain painting equipment, including spray guns, paint booths, and related tools.  

  • Follow safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure a safe work environment.  

  • Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with safety regulations. 

Serve as SME Technician for the Division (10%) 

  • Maintain records of preparation processes, materials used, and any issues or defects encountered.  

Other Duties as Assigned 

Competencies Required 

  • Teamwork and Collaboration 

  • Customer Focus 

  • Communication Skills 

  • Process and Planning Orientation  

Position Requirements 

  • High school diploma or equivalent 

  • Previous experience in wheel refurbishing or automotive repair is preferred but not required 

  • Previous experience in paint preparation, automotive refinishing, or a related field is advantageous. 

  • Knowledge of painting and surface preparation techniques.  

  • Proficiency with hand and power tools. 

  • Strong work ethic, self-motivation and the ability to work independently 

  • Toughness and grit to work outside in all kinds of weather 

  • Valid driver’s license and good driving record  

Physical Job Requirements 

  • Work in well-ventilated automotive repair shops or refurbishing facilities 

  • Physical stamina to frequently kneel, bend and squat, as well as lift up to 45 pounds 

Drug Policy 

  • All applicants being considered for employment must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check. 

The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

The starting compensation is expected to be:

$24.15/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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