ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Paint Prepper Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Godfrey Marine

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

Bennington

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

Bennington

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

Godfrey Marine

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

Bennington

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

Bennington

Paint Prepper

Elkhart, IN · On-site

A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Paint Prepper

Anderson, IN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Paint Prepper

Anderson, IN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

Amaco

Painter/Prepper

Indianapolis, IN

$23 - $24/hr

The Painter/Prepper will set up and operate equipment to ... paint mechanical products. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Auto Paint Prepper

Anderson, IN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Paint Prepper

Angola, IN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers Competitive Pay ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Paint Prepper

Angola, IN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Auto Paint Prepper

Angola, IN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers * Competitive ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Paint Prepper

Anderson, IN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are seeking a qualified Auto Body Refinish Prepper to join our winning team. We offer ... Evaluate bodywork to ensure a quality paint job will result A Career with Us Offers Competitive Pay ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPaint Prepper JobsPaint Prepper Jobs in Indiana

Paint Prepper information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do paint prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint prepper in Indiana is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paint prepper?

A paint prepper prepares a vehicle body or other surface for painting. In this career, your job duties include all aspects of preparation. Your responsibilities involve steps such as the removal of dirt from the surface and parts due for painting. You may sand, polish, retouch, buff, degrease, or otherwise clean the surface. You may also mix color, blend paint, and load paint into spray-painting equipment. A paint prepper may sometimes need to apply primer to the surface to prepare and protect it until the painters perform their job.

What does a paint prepper do?

A Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing surfaces on vehicles or other items before they are painted. This includes tasks such as sanding, masking, cleaning, and sometimes applying primer to ensure the paint adheres properly and results in a smooth, flawless finish. Paint Preppers work closely with painters and follow strict safety and quality guidelines. Their work is essential in achieving a professional and durable paint job, especially in automotive collision repair and manufacturing settings.

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

To thrive as a Paint Prepper, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sanding tools, masking materials, chemical cleaners, and sometimes automotive paint systems is important. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently in team settings help individuals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure high-quality paint finishes, workplace safety, and efficient workflow in automotive or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges paint preppers face when preparing vehicles for painting, and how can they be managed?

Paint Preppers often encounter challenges such as identifying and removing hidden contaminants, achieving smooth surface finishes, and working efficiently under tight deadlines. Managing these challenges involves maintaining strict attention to detail during cleaning and sanding, using the proper tools and materials for each surface, and communicating closely with painters and body technicians to ensure all imperfections are addressed before painting. Staying organized and following standard operating procedures also helps minimize errors and rework, leading to better results and a smoother workflow.

What is the difference between Paint Prepper vs Painter?

AspectPaint PrepperPainter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic painting prep certificationsOSHA safety training, advanced painting certifications
Work EnvironmentPreparation areas, workshops, industrial sitesPainting surfaces, construction sites, residential and commercial buildings
Job ResponsibilitiesSurface cleaning, sanding, masking, primingApplying paint, finishing coats, touch-ups

Paint Prepper primarily focuses on surface preparation tasks to ensure quality paint application, while Painters execute the actual painting process. Both roles often work together but require different skill sets and certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the painting industry.

How much does a paint prepper make a year?

A paint prepper typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled prep workers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or commercial settings.
More about Paint Prepper jobs

What are popular job titles related to Paint Prepper jobs in Indiana?

For Paint Prepper jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Paint Prepper jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Paint Prepper jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Paint Prepper jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Paint Prepper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Paint Prepper jobs in IN?

For Paint Prepper jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Paint Prepper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paint Prepper job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,476 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Paint Prepper

Godfrey Marine

Elkhart, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

TITLE: Paint PrepperLOCATION: Bennington - Elkhart, INDEPARTMENT: ManufacturingREPORTS TO: Group Leader/Supervisor
JOB SUMMARY
Bennington is the market-leading pontoon boat manufacturer and a wholly owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries, a Fortune 500 company. We pride ourselves on delivering a boating experience that is second to none through our emphasis on innovation, design, product quality, and relentless focus on customer satisfaction. Our team members live that passion every day and have fueled our growth across multiple facilities in Elkhart, IN.
A Paint Prepper provides support to the manufacturing team by preparing components and surfaces for paint application. This position is responsible for sanding, masking, cleaning, inspecting, and preparing parts to ensure proper paint adhesion and finish quality. A successful Paint Prepper works safely and efficiently while maintaining the quality standards expected by Bennington customers.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Prepare boat components and related parts for paint application.
  • Sand, clean, mask, tape, and inspect surfaces prior to painting.
  • Remove contaminants, imperfections, and defects from painted surfaces.
  • Follow established paint preparation procedures and quality standards.
  • Verify components meet specifications before moving to paint operations.
  • Assist with material movement and workflow between preparation and paint areas.
  • Perform minor repairs and surface corrections as needed.
  • Maintain tools and equipment in proper working condition.
  • Conduct all work within company safety guidelines and requirements.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
  • Support multiple roles within the department as needed.
  • Participate in continuous improvement and quality initiatives.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous manufacturing, body shop, paint prep, or automotive experience preferred.
  • Ability to use hand tools, sanding equipment, and preparation materials safely.
  • Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Excellent organization and time-management skills.
  • Positive attitude and effective communication skills.
  • Willingness to cross-train and support departmental needs.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
  • Must be able to frequently lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Willingness to work overtime and Saturdays when necessary to meet production demands.

Apply