1

Paint Prepper Jobs in Gilbert, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Paint Prepper This role supports a high-volume industrial painting operation by performing detailed paint preparation and basic paint application on HVAC components and related systems.

Industrial Paint Prepper This role supports a high-volume industrial painting operation by performing detailed paint preparation and basic paint application on HVAC components and related systems.

As an Auto Body Prepper, you'll be expected to prep vehicles for paint , including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing. At Carvana, you'll receive a competitive wage ...

As an Auto Body Prepper, you'll be expected to prep vehicles for paint , including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing. At Carvana, you'll receive a competitive wage ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Paint Prepper information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do paint prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint prepper in Gilbert, AZ is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.18 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.

What are popular job titles related to Paint Prepper jobs in Gilbert, AZ?

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

What job categories do people searching Paint Prepper jobs in Gilbert, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Paint Prepper jobs in Gilbert, AZ are:

What cities near Gilbert, AZ are hiring for Paint Prepper jobs?

Cities near Gilbert, AZ with the most Paint Prepper job openings:

Infographic showing various Paint Prepper job openings in Gilbert, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,162 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Paint Prepper

Aerotek

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Industrial Paint Prepper

Job Description

This role supports a high-volume industrial painting operation by performing detailed paint preparation and basic paint application on HVAC components and related systems. You will work closely with experienced painters to prepare surfaces, apply coatings, and ensure high-quality, durable finishes in a clean, air-conditioned manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

  • Support the painting team by performing basic preparation duties, including masking, taping, sanding, finishing, deburring, and basic paint work.
  • Inspect HVAC components and systems to determine the best approach for painting, including assessing surface preparation needs, selecting appropriate coatings, and choosing suitable application techniques.
  • Perform complex painting tasks such as intricate detailing, high-durability coatings, and protective finishes when required.
  • Conduct quality control inspections to ensure finished surfaces meet aesthetic, functional, and durability standards.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot painting equipment, ensuring it remains in proper working condition and performing preventive maintenance as needed.
  • Stay current with new painting technologies, materials, and industry best practices, and help implement process improvements when appropriate.
  • Follow instructions and work under the supervision and guidance of more experienced painters.
  • Adhere to lean manufacturing guidelines and contribute continuous improvement suggestions to increase efficiency and quality.
  • Use spray guns and related paint systems in paint booths, body shop-style environments, and industrial painting setups.
  • Assist with masking and paint prep for trucks, boats, and other large industrial components as needed.

Essential Skills

  • At least 6 months of industrial paint prep experience.
  • Hands-on experience with paint prep activities such as masking, taping, sanding, finishing, deburring, and basic paint work.
  • Experience working with industrial paint systems, paint shops, paint booths, and body shop or automotive-style environments.
  • Practical knowledge of painting techniques, coatings, and surface preparation methods used in industrial settings.
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to deliver high-quality, durable finishes.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and blueprints.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations, environmental controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements in industrial painting.
  • Ability to use spray guns and related paint equipment safely and effectively.
  • Capability to perform quality control checks on painted surfaces.
  • Ability to follow lean manufacturing practices and standard work instructions.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience in industrial painting, automotive painting, truck painting, boat painting, or similar heavy/industrial paint environments.
  • Experience working in paint prepper or paint helper roles in paint shops or body shops.
  • Familiarity with working in an organized, modern manufacturing facility.
  • Comfort working on 1st or 2nd shift in a production environment.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with a team of painters and production staff.
  • Willingness to learn new painting technologies and participate in specialty training and skill development.

Why Work Here?

You join a fast-growing, modern manufacturing organization that invests heavily in its paint operations and technology. The facility offers better conditions than a typical body shop, including a clean, air-conditioned, and well-organized environment with consistent shifts and voluntary overtime options. You benefit from competitive compensation, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k), paid time off, and an employee assistance program. The culture values continuous improvement, internal promotion, and an entrepreneurial spirit, providing clear opportunities for career growth and specialty training. You work with industry 4.0 technology in a state-of-the-art facility, contribute to a green industry transformation, and become part of an inclusive, diversity-friendly team environment supported by modern amenities such as electric charging stations.

Work Environment

The role is based in a modern, air-conditioned manufacturing facility that is very clean, organized, and designed for high-volume industrial painting work. The environment includes paint booths, paint shops, and advanced paint equipment, with a strong focus on safety and lean manufacturing practices. There are openings on both 1st and 2nd shifts, with consistent schedules and opportunities for voluntary overtime. The work involves standing and walking for extended periods, as well as stooping, kneeling, crouching, and climbing portable ladders when needed. You must be able to lift and move up to 35 pounds and have good manual dexterity and multi-limb coordination to handle tools, spray guns, and components safely. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required and regularly used. The facility operates as a dynamic, fast-growing environment with a focus on advanced technology, quality finishes, and continuous improvement.E

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Mesa, AZ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $26.40/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Mesa,AZ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 28, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.


Aerotek logo

About Aerotek

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our "people are everything" spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and travel arrangement services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US