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Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Riverside, CA

... and Cottrell auto transport trailers. We offer a large and desirable inventory of new Mack and ... TEC Equipment's collision centers provide the highest quality body, paint, fabrication, detail, and ...

Monday to Friday from 8am-5pm We are looking for a motivated, detail-oriented Auto Body Buffer ... Remove dust nibs, orange peel, runs, and other paint defects. * Inspect repaired vehicles to ensure ...

Posted today

Key Job Responsibilities * Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal, sanding, and painting under the supervision of * experienced technicians. * Learn to use and maintain ...

Key Job Responsibilities * Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal, sanding, and painting under the supervision of * experienced technicians. * Learn to use and maintain ...

Key Job Responsibilities Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal, sanding, and painting under the supervision of experienced technicians. Learn to use and maintain tools ...

Body Mechanic B

Riverside, CA · On-site

$38.57/hr

The Body Mechanic B will perform vehicle body and chassis repair work on all Agency vehicles ... Checking vehicle and diagnosing damages Paint vehicle surfaces and parts Fit and replace panels ...

Collision Sales Consultant

Riverside, CA · On-site

$5.5K - $10K/mo

Overview The Collision Sales Consultant Must be detailed and efficient in writing a complete estimate and completing supplements for vehicles brought in for body or paint repairs. They will work with ...

... Paint/ Mixing/ Tinting/ Blending. • Identify and determine parts required for repair of ... Whether it's on the racetrack or in the body shop, our people love working here. Our supportive ...

... and Paint/ Mixing/ Tinting/ Blending. Identify and determine parts required for repair of ... Whether it's on the racetrack or in the body shop, our people love working here. Our supportive ...

... and Paint/ Mixing/ Tinting/ Blending. Identify and determine parts required for repair of ... Whether it's on the racetrack or in the body shop, our people love working here. Our supportive ...

Collision Estimator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$57K - $78K/yr

Assigns labor to Technicians and Painter. Educate the customer about the collision repair process ... Minimum 4 year of collision auto body repair experience. * Knowledge of insurance procedures and ...

Collision Estimator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$57K - $78K/yr

Update statuses in the production schedule. • Assigns labor to Technicians and Painter. • ... Minimum 4 year of collision auto body repair experience. * Knowledge of insurance procedures and ...

Collision Estimator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$57K - $78K/yr

Update statuses in the production schedule. · Assigns labor to Technicians and Painter. · Educate ... Minimum 4 year of collision auto body repair experience. * Knowledge of insurance procedures and ...

Collision Center Detailer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Installs protective coverings (seat covers, steering wheel covers, floor mats, etc.) and tags in all vehicles brought in for body shop repair or painting. * Services vehicles with gas, oil, and water.

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$18

$25

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance auto body paint prepper in Riverside, CA is $18.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance auto body paint preppers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance auto body paint preppers often face challenges such as inconsistent workflow, managing multiple clients' deadlines, and ensuring access to high-quality tools and materials. Building strong relationships with local body shops and maintaining a reputation for reliability can help secure repeat business. Staying organized, communicating clearly with clients about project timelines, and investing in portable, quality equipment are also essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering professional results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance auto body paint prepper?

To thrive as a Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper, you need expertise in surface preparation, sanding, masking, and knowledge of automotive paint types, often supported by experience or vocational training in auto body repair. Familiarity with tools such as sanders, spray guns, masking materials, and safety equipment is crucial, and some employers may prefer certifications like I-CAR or ASE. Attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills help ensure high-quality results and client satisfaction. Mastering these skills and tools ensures a smooth painting process, reduces errors, and builds a solid reputation in a competitive freelance market.

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

AspectFreelance Auto Body Paint PrepperAuto Body Painter
CredentialsNone mandatory, often experienced in prep workVocational training or certification preferred
Work EnvironmentIndependent, mobile or shop-basedShop or dealership settings
Job FocusSurface preparation, sanding, primingApplying paint, finishing coats
Tools & EquipmentSanding tools, masking suppliesSpray guns, paint booths

Freelance Auto Body Paint Preppers specialize in surface prep work, often working independently or on a contract basis, while Auto Body Painters focus on applying paint and finishing. Both roles require knowledge of auto repair processes, but their primary tasks and tools differ significantly.

What does a freelance auto body paint prepper do?

A Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing vehicles for painting by sanding, masking, cleaning, and repairing surfaces as needed. They work independently, often on a contract basis, serving auto shops or individual clients. Their tasks ensure that the paint adheres properly and that the final finish is smooth and free from defects. Attention to detail and knowledge of various preparation techniques are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Freelance Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings:

$26.88 - $33.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


TEC Equipment rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 150 rated car dealerships


Job description

About Us

Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, TEC has 30+ locations from Seattle to San Diego to the Midwest, serving thousands of customers across Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Arizona, Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota.

TEC Equipment features Mack and Volvo heavy-duty trucks, Hino and Isuzu medium duty trucks, Stoughton trailers and Cottrell auto transport trailers. We offer a large and desirable inventory of new Mack and Volvo heavy-duty trucks and all makes of used trucks. Our full-service line-up also features quality parts, state-of-the-art service, collision centers and fuel, leasing/rental, financing, and insurance. Our locations are authorized service centers for Mack, Volvo, Cummins, Meritor, Eaton and Fuller warranties. TEC truly offers the convenience of one-stop shopping for all trucking-related needs.

Overview

TEC Equipment is seeking an experienced Body Shop Repair Technician, for our body repair shop. Seeking a person who will be responsible for providing full-service pre and post-repair, paint and body work for our customers' equipment, performing all work in an efficient and safe manner and to industry quality standards. TEC Equipment's collision centers provide the highest quality body, paint, fabrication, detail, and collision work and our technicians are trained to work on Volvo, Mack, Autocar, Hino, and other heavy duty equipment. We are seeking individuals who take pride in their work and are committed to the success and satisfaction of our customers.

Responsibilities
  • Identify and determine parts required for repair; review repair orders, work order, and Estimator's notes;
  • Follow warranty guidelines; notify Supervisor or Estimator of any repair add-ons.
  • Adjust, replace, and repair all series of truck and trailer equipment (e.g., sheet metal repairs, fiberglass/SMC panel repairs, fabrication and structural welding, installation and alignment of truck cab body components, electrical and mechanical repairs, etc.).
  • Road test vehicles when necessary.
  • Prep & refinish vehicles with single stage and two stage paint systems.
  • Follow all state and federal vehicle requirements by testing engine, safety, and combustion control standards; follow company policies, procedures, and safety and EPA regulations. Must use all safety equipment necessary for the job. Maintain current knowledge of job and technical skills and truck manufacturer's repair process.
Qualifications
  • Associates degree and/or formal education and training in collision repair & refinishing is a plus!
  • Minimum 5 years' experience with and proficiency in use of all tools of trade (welding equipment, plasma cutters, drills, sanders, die-grinders, impact wrenches, and jacks)
  • Valid Drivers License and ability to meet insurance requirements
  • Must have own hand tools
  • Strong knowledge of medium and heavy duty trucks and equipment
  • Strong knowledge of polyurethane paint coating systems
  • Ability to meet all physical requirements of the job in a safe and alert manner
  • Ability to consistently meet shop quality and efficiency standards
CompensationThe base pay range for this position is $26.88 to $33.60.Benefits

TEC provides our employees and their families with a full menu of health, wellness, and retirement benefits.

New hires are eligible to participate in TEC Equipment's comprehensive benefits plan the first of the month following your date of hire.

  • Choice of two comprehensive medical plan options that include prescription drug coverage
  • Choice of two dental plans that cover preventative and diagnostic care, basic and major services, and orthodontia for children
  • Vision care, discounted hearing exams, and hearing aids
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution
  • Life, accident, and disability insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Education assistance
  • Seven paid holidays, vacation accrual of at least 48 hours per year, and paid sick
Statements

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all applicable screenings.

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

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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