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Paint Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carstar

Paint Prepper

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing repaired vehicles for refinishing and ... This site contains postings for jobs at independently owned and operated franchises. Only the ...

Puget Collision

Paint Prepper/Detailer

Corona, CA · On-site

Capable of operating Spray Booth & other paint related equipment * Ability to mask and apply protection for a vehicle appropriately. * Knowledgeable in cleaning and sand prepping the area for ...

Puget Collision

Paint Prepper/Detailer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Capable of operating Spray Booth & other paint related equipment * Ability to mask and apply protection for a vehicle appropriately. * Knowledgeable in cleaning and sand prepping the area for ...

Crash Champions

Paint Prepper

La Habra, CA · On-site

$42K - $100K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from vehicle surfaces in preparation for paint application ...

Crash Champions

Paint Prepper

La Habra, CA · On-site

$42K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from vehicle surfaces in preparation for paint application ...

Crash Champions

Paint Prepper

La Habra, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... Remove grease, dirt, paint, or rust from vehicle surfaces in preparation for paint application ...

Karman Space & Defense

Painter

Brea, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Your expertise in paint processes, materials, and equipment will help ensure consistent finishes ... paints, operating HVLP and airless equipment, keeping environmental compliance records, and ...

Crash Champions

Paint Technician

Covina, CA · On-site

$80K - $195K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... We Champion People. • Performs all refinish work according to specs. • Match colors of paint ...

Posted today

Scott Robinson Honda

Paint Shop Apprentice

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Paint Shop Apprentice Scott Robinson Honda Service Center is seeking an experienced and highly ... Scott Robinson Honda Service Center is a family-owned and operated business serving the South Bay ...

Scott Robinson Honda

Paint Shop Apprentice

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Paint Shop Apprentice Scott Robinson Honda Service Center is seeking an experienced and highly ... Scott Robinson Honda Service Center is a family-owned and operated business serving the South Bay ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPaint Operator JobsPaint Operator Jobs in California

Paint Operator information

What is the difference between Paint Operator vs Spray Painter?

AspectPaint OperatorSpray Painter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial settingsAuto body shops, manufacturing, industrial facilities
Job DutiesOperate paint equipment, prep surfaces, ensure qualityApply paint using spray guns, surface prep, finishing
Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospaceAutomotive, furniture, industrial equipment

Paint Operators and Spray Painters share similar skills and work environments, often requiring safety training and surface preparation. However, Paint Operators typically focus on operating paint systems in manufacturing settings, while Spray Painters are more involved in applying paint directly to surfaces, especially in auto body or finishing shops.

How much do paint operator make?

Paint operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or industrial settings with shift work. Wages can also vary based on the complexity of the equipment and safety requirements.

What does a paint operator do?

A paint operator is responsible for operating and maintaining painting equipment to apply coatings to products or surfaces. They prepare surfaces, mix paints or coatings, monitor application processes, and ensure quality standards are met. The role often requires knowledge of safety procedures, proper use of tools, and sometimes certifications in handling hazardous materials.

What cities in California are hiring for Paint Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Paint Operator job openings:

Paint Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paint Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Paint Prepper

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

Carstar
See more jobs at Carstarexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Carstar rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 375 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing repaired vehicles for refinishing and assisting Paint Technicians' with their work. Duties include sanding, masking, priming vehicle parts and keeping Paint Technicians aware of work progress. Must adhere to safety/OSHA guidelines and use required safety protection.
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 surfaces in preparation for paint application.
  • Apply paper and masking tape to protect non-painted surfaces (windows, bumpers, trim, etc.).
  • May assist Paint Technician with blending as needed.
  • Works with paint team to keep all vehicles on schedule for on-time delivery.
  • Maintain all tools and equipment, keep workspace clean and organized.
  • Disassemble, clean, and reassemble sprayers and power equipment.
  • Ensure paint area (prep station, paint booth, etc.) and paint mix/storage rooms are clean and all refinish products are stored as directed.
  • May help with general maintenance of paint booths.
  • Help with reassembly of vehicle - replace final moldings, trim and detail pieces.
  • Utilize all required safety equipment and follow proper refinishing procedures in compliance with OSHA and CARSTAR safety guidelines. Wear and use required safety equipment (respirator, eye and skin protectors), handle and dispose of hazardous waste properly.
  • Attend daily release meetings.
  • Other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE / SKILL REQUIREMENTS
  • Prior automotive painting and refinishing process experience required.
  • Prior paint-prep experience preferred - sanding, masking, prepping and blending.
  • High School diploma/GED preferred. Collision tech graduate preferred.
  • I-CAR or ASE refinishing certification preferred.
  • Knowledge of auto manufacturers' repair/refinishing processes.
  • Ability to receive direction and work well with others.
  • Valid driver's license and insurable driving record.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Essential physical requirements include:
  • Ability to stoop, bend and kneel, squat, kneel and pulling
  • Extended periods of kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping
  • Carry and lift heavy objects (up to 50lbs)
  • Standing, sitting and walking
  • Performing repetitive motions
  • Visual acuity for color matching

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Exposure to:
  • Paint, fumes and particles
  • Dirt / Dust
  • Chemicals / Toxins
  • Varying heat / cold
  • Intermittent noise

*All duties, responsibilities and experience are subject to change by location
**This site contains postings for jobs at independently owned and operated franchises. Only the franchisee that you apply to work for is responsible for employment matters at the locations, including hiring, firing, discipline, supervisions, staffing, and scheduling employees. CARSTAR Franchisor SPV LLC has no control over employment matters at the location. CARSTAR Franchisor SPV LLC will not receive a copy of your employment application and it will have no involvement in any employment decisions, including whether you receive an interview for the job or whether you are hired.

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