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Paint Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essential Functions Statement(s) * Assist the Painter in daily activities not involving actual spraying of paint * Prepare parts by hand sanding and solvent cleaning * Mix a variety of chromate and ...

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Wash vehicles to remove dirt, oil, grease, and debris from painted surfaces, and locate/remove any imperfections on panels before painting. * Assist paint technicians with material preparation, booth ...

Auto Body Paint Prepper

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Wash vehicles to remove dirt, oil, grease, and debris from painted surfaces, and locate/remove any imperfections on panels before painting. * Assist paint technicians with material preparation, booth ...

Wash vehicles to remove dirt, oil, grease, and debris from painted surfaces, and locate/remove any imperfections on panels before painting. * Assist paint technicians with material preparation, booth ...

Painter Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $20.75/hr

As a Painter Assistant, you will: * Performs cleaning of parts prior to painting, masking, paint ... Applies paint to all specified tolerances in all areas. * Removes masking and cleans parts prior to ...

Be comfortable with the production and masking process, or being around paint * Assist in general production * Use work stools for the entirety of your shift Now taking applications and setting up ...

PAINTER

Rosemead, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Keep area clean with covering trim, floors, furniture and other surfaces with masking tape, drop clothes and other protective coverings to keep them free of paint. * Assist the Director of Plant ...

PAINTER

Rosemead, CA

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Keep area clean with covering trim, floors, furniture and other surfaces with masking tape, drop clothes and other protective coverings to keep them free of paint. * Assist the Director of Plant ...

Apply caulk and patch materials to fill cracks, holes, and imperfections prior to painting. * Assist with basic drywall-related prep work as needed to support painting activities. * Maintain a clean ...

New

Key Responsibilities * Assist customers with paint selection and provide expert advice on coatings and finishes * Manage the paint counter efficiently, ensuring excellent customer service * Support ...

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Paint Assistant information

What are Paint Assistants?

Paint Assistants are professionals who support painters and painting teams by preparing surfaces, mixing paints, masking areas, cleaning equipment, and ensuring a safe and organized workspace. They play a crucial role in the painting process by handling the preparatory and support tasks, allowing painters to focus on the application. Paint Assistants may work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, and their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific job requirements. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions are important qualities for this role.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Paint Assistant roles are unlikely to disappear entirely by 2030, but automation and advanced tools like spray systems may reduce the need for manual painting assistants. Jobs involving repetitive tasks or manual labor are expected to decline as technology and robotics become more integrated into the industry. However, roles requiring oversight, quality control, or specialized skills will continue to exist.

What does a painting assistant do?

A painting assistant helps with preparing surfaces, mixing paints, applying primer, and assisting with painting tasks under the supervision of a lead painter. They often use brushes, rollers, and spray equipment and may need to follow safety protocols and wear protective gear. The role supports efficient completion of painting projects in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.

What is the difference between Paint Assistant vs Painter Helper?

AspectPaint AssistantPainter Helper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsConstruction sites, residential and commercial projects
Employer & Industry UsagePainting contractors, construction companiesPainting contractors, construction companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Paint Assistant and a Painter Helper is often minimal, with both roles supporting painters in preparation and cleanup tasks. However, 'Paint Assistant' may imply a slightly more formal or specialized position, sometimes with additional responsibilities or certifications. Both roles are essential in painting projects, working in similar environments and industries.

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

To thrive as a Paint Assistant, you need knowledge of surface preparation, paint mixing, and application techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with spray booths, sanding equipment, and basic safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality finishes, safety compliance, and smooth workflow in painting and refinishing environments.

How much do painter assistants make?

Painter assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced assistants or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages. Many painter assistants also receive benefits such as paid time off and overtime pay.

What is a painter's hourly rate?

A painter's hourly rate typically ranges from $15 to $40, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled paint assistants or apprentices may earn towards the lower end, while experienced painters or those working in high-cost areas may charge higher rates. Rates can also vary based on whether the work is residential or commercial and if additional tools or preparation are required.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Paint Assistant in an automotive repair shop?

As a Paint Assistant in an automotive repair shop, your daily tasks typically include preparing vehicles for painting by sanding, masking, and cleaning surfaces, mixing paint according to specifications, and assisting the lead painter with equipment setup and cleanup. You may also be responsible for maintaining a clean and organized workspace, tracking inventory of painting supplies, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. This role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work well with a team to deliver high-quality results under tight deadlines.
What are the most commonly searched types of Paint jobs in California? The most popular types of Paint jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Paint Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Paint Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Paint Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Paint Assistant 1 2nd Shift

Valence Surface Technologies

Lynwood, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Valence Surface Technologies rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Status: Temp to hire

Schedule: 2nd Shift 2:00pm - 10:30pm (weekends as needed) 

Location: Lynwood CA 90262

Pay Range$ 17.23 - $20.00

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


Essential Functions Statement(s)

  • Assist the Painter in daily activities not involving actual spraying of paint
  • Prepare parts by hand sanding and solvent cleaning
  • Mix a variety of chromate and non-chromated primers and topcoats
  • Lay parts out and maneuver for eased application of paint
  • Complete work order and necessary paperwork during paint process
  • Accurately process and document oven charts and temperatures
  • Sweeping and cleaning the paint shop as necessary
  • Observe safety regulations and wear protective masks and clothing while performing daily activities
  • Manage hazardous materials safely and in accordance with state and federal regulations
  • Setup and label cubic yard hazardous waste storage boxes
  • Other duties as assigned

Competency Statement(s)

  • Accountability - Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
  • Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
  • Ambition - The drive to achieve personal advancement.
  • Applied Learning - Ability to participate in needed learning activities in a way that makes the most of the learning experience.
  • Communication, Oral - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word.
  • Customer Oriented - Ability to take care of the customers’ needs while following company procedures.
  • Ethical - Ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted standards.
  • Goal Oriented - Ability to focus on a goal and obtain a pre-determined result.
  • Honesty / Integrity - Ability to be truthful and be seen as credible in the workplace.
  • Initiative - Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
  • Motivation - Ability to inspire oneself and others to reach a goal and/or perform to the best of their ability.
  • Persistence - Ability to complete tasks or continue in a course of action in spite of opposition or discouragement.
  • Safety Awareness - Ability to identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.
  • Self Motivated - Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of ones ability using his or her own drive or initiative.
  • Working Under Pressure - Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations.
  • Time Management - Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.
  • Reliability - The trait of being dependable and trustworthy.
  • Responsible - Ability to be held accountable or answerable for one’s conduct.

SKILLS & ABILITIES
Education: High School Graduate or General Education Degree (GED): (preferred) 
Experience: 6 months of working in processing aerospace company (preferred) 

Other Physical Requirements
•Vision (Near, Distance)
•Sense of Sound - Able to hear in normal audio range
•Sense of Touch
•Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Safety Glasses

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in shop conditions and can be in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit

This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status. ITAR defines U.S. person as an U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e., 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

About Valence Surface Technologies

 Valence Surface Technologies is a full-service surface finishing company specializing in the commercial aerospace, defense, space and satellite industries. With ten strategically located sites across the United States, Valence provides a start to finish solution from NDT and chemical processing, to paint and sub-assembly.

Traditionally, the aerospace supply chain has been a fragmented system comprised of many different suppliers completing a different step of the chain. One company may be responsible for the initial inspection and shot peening, and then another anodizes, while another has responsibility for the paint, and so on and so forth. These processes may take place spread across the country, at great cost due to unnecessary lead time, inventory, risk, and management resources.

 Valence exists to change the supply chain. By providing an all-inclusive solution in every region of the country, we reduce costs, the number of suppliers, the distance parts must travel, lead times, while maintaining the capacity to grow with new programs. We do this by maintaining over 3,500 approvals, for every prime and program in existence today.


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