1

Paint Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Paint helpers are responsible for preparing a variety of parts for painting. * Assist the Painter in daily activities not involving actual spraying of paint * Prepare parts by hand sanding and ...

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 ...

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 ...

Painter Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $20.75/hr

Painter Assistant Move Forward with Volt! Volt is immediately hiring multiple Industrial Painter ... Applies paint to all specified tolerances in all areas. * Removes masking and cleans parts prior to ...

Painter Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $20.75/hr

Painter Assistant Move Forward with Volt! Volt is immediately hiring multiple Industrial Painter ... Applies paint to all specified tolerances in all areas. * Removes masking and cleans parts prior to ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist Paint Technician by preparing vehicles and parts for painting using proper techniques, equipment and materials. * Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from vehicle ...

New

Paint Prepper/Detailer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Paint Prepper with Detail Duties Auto Paint Prepper with Detailer Duties The Automotive Paint ... * Assist in the cleanliness of the shop by picking up trash and putting things back in place ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Paint Assistant information

What is a paint assistant?

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 are the typical daily responsibilities of a paint assistant?

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 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.

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.

How to become a paint assistant?

To become a paint assistant, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with painting or related manual work. Skills in handling painting tools, understanding safety procedures, and working in a team environment are important; on-the-job training is common, and some employers may prefer candidates with basic knowledge of paints and surface preparation.

What does a paint assistant do?

A paint assistant helps with preparing surfaces, mixing paints, and applying paint under the supervision of a painter or supervisor. They may also clean tools, set up equipment, and ensure safety protocols are followed in the painting environment. Basic knowledge of painting techniques and safety procedures is often required.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Paint Assistant 1 (2nd Shift)

Valence Surface Technologies

Garden Grove, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 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 Overview 

   Reports to: Department Supervisor

    Location: Garden Grove, CA

    Type: Full-Time

     Schedule: 2nd Shift 

Job Summary:

Paint helpers are responsible for preparing a variety of parts for painting.

  • 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

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

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.
  • 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.
  • Judgment -The ability to formulate 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.a sound decision using the available information.
  • Responsible -Ability to be held accountable or answerable for one’s conduct.
  • Reliability -The trait of being dependable and trustworthy.
  • 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.

Physical Demands: Must be able to consistently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50-75 lbs. This is a physically active job. That requires vision, average sight, touch, and MUST be able to wear PPE. Standing for long periods of time.

Education: High School Graduate or General Education Degree (required) 

Experience: None 

Benefits: 

  • Compensation Range $16.90 to $ 19.60 per hour (DOE) + Shift Differential
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Employer Paid Basic Life, Supplemental Life Insurance, 401k with a Employer Match
  • Generous Paid Time Off program
  • 8 Holidays and 1 Floater Holiday
  • On-the-job training, no experience required

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The majority of work is performed in a manufacturing setting.

Valence Surface Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.  Additionally, Valence Surface Technologies participates in the E-Verify program to ensure employment eligibility of newly hired employees where required.

This position requires access to knowledge and technical data regulated by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Valence Surface Technologies is required to verify that applicants meet ITAR requirements prior to employment for this role.


What Valence Surface Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom