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Paint Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Caliber Collision

Auto Painter Helper

Naperville, IL

$17 - $19/hr

Duties may include sanding and buffing and maintenance of paint booth and workspace. Auto Painter Helpers will be required to repair vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in accordance with ...

Caliber Collision

Auto Painter Helper

Naperville, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Duties may include sanding and buffing and maintenance of paint booth and workspace. Auto Painter Helpers will be required to repair vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in accordance with ...

Eakas Corporation

Be Seen First

Paint Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Any additional analysis, help and/or assistance as required. * Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches paint defected appearance data; uses experience to ...

Five Star Painting

Paint Contractor

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Five Star Painting LLC is NOT the employer seeking help. The only employer is the independent franchisee who has listed its available positions on this website. *Acknowledgement I acknowledge that ...

Aspen Guard LLC

Paint Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.20/hr

As a Paint Technician at Folding Guard, you will be responsible for preparing and applying paint ... Enrollment in our dental insurance plan, helping you maintain your oral health. * Vision:

Aspen Guard LLC

Paint Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.20/hr

As a Paint Technician at Folding Guard, you will be responsible for preparing and applying paint ... Enrollment in our dental insurance plan, helping you maintain your oral health. * Vision:

Painters USA

Painter Technician

Glendale Heights, IL · On-site

$20 - $20.25/hr

Support painting/coatings crews on commercial & industrial job sites * Follow safety guidelines and ... Help maintain clean, organized, and safe job sites * Learn hands-on skills from experienced team ...

Acme Finishing

Paint Sprayer

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

We are actively building a culture of high performance that rewards those who help move the company ... Applies paint using conventional or electrostatic spray guns to various parts and objects. Cleans ...

Five Star Painting

Painting Subcontractor

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Must be willing to undergo and pass a criminal background check Behind every excellent paint job, are the people who get to know the homeowner, help craft the design, improve the look and feel and ...

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All JobsPaint Helper JobsPaint Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL

Paint Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do paint helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint helper in Chicago, IL is $18.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paint helper?

Paint Helpers are entry-level workers who assist painters in preparing surfaces, mixing paints, setting up equipment, and cleaning up job sites. They play a crucial role in ensuring that painting projects run smoothly and efficiently by handling tasks such as masking, sanding, scraping, and moving materials. Paint Helpers often work under the supervision of more experienced painters and may learn the trade on the job, making this position a good starting point for a career in painting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paint helper?

To thrive as a Paint Helper, you need basic knowledge of surface preparation, safety procedures, and familiarity with painting materials, often gained through on-the-job training or a high school diploma. Experience with tools like sanders, sprayers, and protective equipment, as well as adherence to OSHA safety standards, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability help ensure tasks are completed accurately and on schedule. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high-quality finishes, workplace safety, and efficient project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by paint helpers when working in a fast-paced automotive shop?

Paint Helpers in automotive shops often work under tight deadlines to prepare and finish vehicles for painting, which requires strong attention to detail and the ability to multitask. A common challenge is ensuring surfaces are properly prepped and masked to prevent paint defects, while also coordinating with painters and body technicians to maintain workflow efficiency. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as priorities may shift quickly to meet customer demands or address unexpected issues. With experience, Paint Helpers can develop advanced techniques and may have opportunities to advance to painter or supervisor roles.

What is the difference between Paint Helper vs Painter?

AspectPaint HelperPainter
CredentialsNone required or basic certificationsHigh school diploma; apprenticeship or licensing often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssist in painting projects, prep work, cleanupPerform actual painting, surface preparation, finishing
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, renovation, maintenanceCommercial, residential, industrial painting
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, support roles in paintingSkilled painting work, career advancement

The main difference between a Paint Helper and a Painter is that the Paint Helper assists with prep work, cleanup, and support tasks, while the Painter performs the actual painting and finishing. The Paint Helper role is ideal for those starting in the industry, gaining experience before becoming a Painter. Both roles are essential in painting projects, with the Helper providing valuable support to ensure quality and efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paint jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Paint jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Paint Helper jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Paint Helper job openings:

Paint Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paint Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,996 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Auto Painter Helper

Caliber Collision

Naperville, IL

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Caliber Collision rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 369 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

Service Center

Naperville

JOB SUMMARY

Caliber Collision has an immediate job opening for an Auto Painter Helper to efficiently prepare vehicles for painting in cooperation with the Auto Painter to ensure efficient workflow. Duties may include sanding and buffing and maintenance of paint booth and workspace. Auto Painter Helpers will be required to repair vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in accordance with Caliber and OEM standards using our state-of-the-art equipment.

OUR AUTO PAINTER HELPERS FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO:

  • $17-$19/Flag hour!

BENEFITS OF JOINING THE CALIBER FAMILY

  • Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision
  • Industry Comparable Pay - Paid weekly and eligible for overtime (if hourly)
  • State of the Art Products - 3M Collision Repair Products
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays - Begin accruing day 1
  • Career growth opportunities - We promote from within!
  • Paid Skilled Trainings and Certifications - I-CAR and ASE
  • A career for life: You'll gain hands-on experience within a production shop

REQUIREMENTS

  • 1+ years of experience in paint operations within a collision center
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid driver's license and be eligible for coverage under Caliber's insurance policy
  • Nice to have, but not required: Previous collision experience and/or Collision Vo-Tech certification

ABILITES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE

  • Ability to do consistent physical activity - reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and squatting, and lifting objects over 50 lbs.
  • Be able to understand instructions - written and verbal
  • Can prioritize competing tasks and adapt easily to a fast-paced environment

Caliber is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Caliber uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. with no restrictions.

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