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Entry Level Painter Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

GABLETEK

PLM Analyst / Spare Parts Coordinator

Novi, MI · On-site

$24.75 - $30.75/hr

PLM Analyst / Spare Parts Coordinator - Entry Level Location: Novi, MI Position Overview We are ... Understand and apply customer-specific requirements including paint codes, alpha/numeric releases ...

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All JobsPainter JobsEntry Level Painter JobsEntry Level Painter Jobs in Michigan

Entry Level Painter information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do entry level painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level painter in Michigan is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be an entry level painter with no experience?

Entry level painters often do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as attention to detail, physical stamina, and familiarity with painting tools can help you get started in this role.

How to start a career in painting?

To start a career as an entry-level painter, gain basic knowledge of painting techniques and safety procedures, often through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Developing skills with tools like brushes, rollers, and sprayers, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects. Entry-level painters typically work under supervision and may need physical stamina and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level painter?

To thrive as an Entry Level Painter, you need basic knowledge of painting techniques, surface preparation, and familiarity with safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or GED. Experience with brushes, rollers, sprayers, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure high-quality results, maintain safety standards, and promote effective teamwork on job sites.

What is the difference between Entry Level Painter vs Apprentice Painter?

AspectEntry Level PainterApprentice Painter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic painting skillsMay require basic skills; often in training
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial, or industrial sitesOn-the-job training alongside experienced painters
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in painting companies or contractorsTraining role within painting companies or unions

While both roles involve painting tasks, an Entry Level Painter is typically responsible for basic painting duties with some experience, whereas an Apprentice Painter is in training, learning skills under supervision. The apprentice role often serves as a stepping stone to becoming a full-fledged painter.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level painters, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level painters often encounter challenges such as mastering proper surface preparation, achieving an even coat, and working efficiently under time constraints. These challenges can be addressed by closely following safety and preparation procedures, seeking guidance from experienced team members, and practicing various painting techniques. Additionally, being open to feedback and consistently learning on the job will help build confidence and skill, making tasks easier over time.

What does an entry level painter do?

An entry level painter is responsible for preparing surfaces, applying paint, and assisting more experienced painters on various projects. Typical duties include sanding, cleaning surfaces, taping, priming, and using brushes or rollers to apply paint. Entry level painters often work under supervision and may help with moving materials, setting up equipment, and cleaning up job sites. This position is a great way to gain experience in the painting trade and learn proper techniques and safety practices.
More about Entry Level Painter jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Painter jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Painter jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Painter jobs in Michigan? For Entry Level Painter jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Painter jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Painter jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Painter jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Painter job openings:
Entry Level Painter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Painter job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, 2% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,565 per year, or $19 per hour.

Auto Body Painter Helper

Cox Communications, Inc.

Carleton, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Cox Communications rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 127 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 97 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

Company

Cox Automotive - USA

Job Family Group

Vehicle Operations

Job Profile

Reconditioning Service Technician I (Union)

Management Level

Individual Contributor

Flexible Work Option 

No remote option; must work at a specified Cox location

Travel %

No

Work Shift

Day

Job Description

Auto Body Painter Helper

Key Responsibilities

Serves as an entry - level Technician. With guidance, performs Technician duties, including:

  • Perform vehicle cleaning and preparation, including washing, wheel cleaning, waxing, buffing, and polishing.

  • Completing work order documentation.

  • Prepare vehicle surfaces for buffing and refinishing.

  • Remove imperfections and restore panels to OEM quality standards.

  • Inspect finished body panels to ensure proper color match and consistent finish texture.

  • Remove compound and polish residue from buffed panels.

  • Move vehicles as needed to support workflow throughout the detailing and painting process.

  • Follow all safety guidelines and company procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.

  • 1+ years of experience in an auto body/paint shop, vocational, or technical school in automotive program.

  • Valid driver's license andgood drivingrecordrequired.

  • Ability tooperateboth manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

  • Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn automotive paint processes.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Regularly required to stand, walk, reach, talk, and hear.

  • Frequently required to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, squat, and climb.

  • Ability tolift upto 15 pounds (e.g., tools and materials).

  • Ability to perform repetitive motions andmaintainmanual dexterity in a production environment.

SMCOX

Drug Testing

To be employed in this role, you'll need to clear a pre-employment drug test. Cox Automotive does not currently administer a pre-employment drug test for marijuana for this position. However, we are a drug-free workplace, so the possession, use or being under the influence of drugs illegal under federal or state law during work hours, on company property and/or in company vehicles is prohibited.

About Us

Through groundbreaking technology and a commitment to stellar experiences for drivers and dealers alike, Cox Automotive employees are transforming the way the world buys, owns, sells - or simply uses - cars. Cox Automotive employees get to work on iconic consumer brands like Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book and industry-leading dealer-facing companies like vAuto and Manheim, all while enjoying the people-centered atmosphere that is central to our life at Cox. Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO). For more details on what benefits you may be offered, visit our benefits page. Cox is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual's age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cox provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with disability, unless such accommodations would cause an undue hardship.EOE, including disability/vetsApplicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship. No OPT, CPT, STEM/OPT or visa sponsorship now or in future.



What Cox Communications employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Cox Communications

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cox Communications is the largest private telecom company in America, serving six million homes and businesses. That's a lot, but we also proudly serve our employees. Our benefits and our award-winning culture are just two of the things that make Cox a coveted place to work. If you're interested in bringing people closer through broadband, smart home tech and more, join Cox Communications today! Cox empowers employees to build a better future and has been doing so for over 120 years. With exciting investments and innovations across transportation, communications, cleantech and healthcare, our family of businesses - which includes Cox Automotive and Cox Communications - is forging a better future for us all. Ready to make your mark?

Industry

Media and telecom

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

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