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Paint Shop Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Paint Technician

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

General knowledge of hand tools & paint shop equipment operation. Skills/Requirements * Proven experience in painting or a related field. * Strong mechanical knowledge and ability to use hand tools ...

Paint Prepper/Detailer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Ensure organization for shop supplies and equipment by utilizing dedicated spaces. * Maintain ... Paint Gross Profit of 60% or higher with efficient paint usage and limited overuse * Customer ...

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Paint Shop information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do paint shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint shop in California is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paint shop?

A paint shop is a facility or department where surfaces such as vehicles, machinery, furniture, or parts are coated with paint, varnish, or finishes for protection and appearance. In industries like automotive or manufacturing, paint shops use specialized equipment and processes to ensure quality and durability of the coatings. Workers in a paint shop may prepare surfaces, mix paints, operate spray booths, and monitor drying and curing processes. Safety and environmental regulations are important aspects of paint shop operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a paint shop, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in a paint shop often face challenges such as maintaining a dust-free environment, ensuring consistent color matching, and adhering to safety protocols when handling chemicals. To address these, shops typically implement strict cleanliness standards, use high-quality ventilation and filtration systems, and provide ongoing training in safety and application techniques. Team members often collaborate closely to inspect finishes, troubleshoot issues, and meet production deadlines, ensuring quality and efficiency in their work.

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

To thrive as a Paint Shop Technician, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation, paint application techniques, and safety standards, often supported by vocational training or relevant certification. Familiarity with spray guns, paint booths, color-matching systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help maintain quality and efficiency. These skills ensure consistent, high-quality finishes, workplace safety, and effective collaboration in a production environment.

What is the difference between Paint Shop vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectPaint ShopAuto Body Technician
CertificationsAutomotive painting certifications, spray painting licensesCollision repair certifications, I-CAR certifications
Work EnvironmentPaint booths, spray stations, automotive shopsRepair bays, collision centers, auto repair shops
Industry UsageVehicle painting, refinishing, custom paint jobsBody repairs, dent removal, collision damage repair

While both roles work within automotive repair facilities, a Paint Shop primarily focuses on applying paint and finishes to vehicles, often involving spray painting and refinishing. An Auto Body Technician handles broader collision repairs, including bodywork, dent removal, and structural repairs. Both roles require similar certifications and work in automotive environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and specialization.

Do paint shop painters earn good money?

Paint shop painters typically earn wages that are competitive within the manufacturing and automotive industries, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled painters who work with specialized equipment or certifications may have higher earning potential, and overtime or shift work can also increase income. Overall, the pay is generally considered fair for the skilled labor involved in automotive or industrial painting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paint Shop jobs in California?

The most popular types of Paint Shop jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Paint Shop jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Paint Shop jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Paint Shop jobs?

Cities in California with the most Paint Shop job openings:

Infographic showing various Paint Shop job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,651 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Paint Shop Craftsperson

Karma Automotive

Moreno Valley, CA

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description


Paint Shop Craftsperson

The Paint Shop Craftsperson is responsible for working in any area on any day. They will be assigned to a home team in Paint. They are to support the Paint manufacturing where there is a need. They will perform standardized work according to work instructions or PADS. They will be cross trained within their team and other processes so that they can be utilized across the paint shop when needed. They will also be required to perform other miscellaneous tasks, as assigned by their Team Leader or Group Leader.

This is a temporary assignment anticipated to continue through March 2027, with the opportunity to convert to a regular full-time position based on business needs, individual performance, and attendance.

Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., as scheduled. Overtime may be required, with shifts not exceeding 12 hours.


Responsibilities (include, but are not limited):

  • Ensure work is done safely and meets quality standards.
  • Follow, create, and help maintain VSOPS, PADS, and other Procedure Specifications.
  • Operate machinery used in the production process or assist machine operators.
  • Complete job elements as instructed by Team Leader and Group Leader.
  • Keep work areas clean and organized and take proper care of all equipment and facilities.
  • Follow all company rules and policies.
  • Provide a great level of attention to detail and focus on the given task.
  • Escalate issues to Team Leader and Group Leader that do not meet our standards.
  • Work with team members to maximize productivity and efficiency.
  • Prepare product for shipment or complete inspections to ensure Quality in Station.
  • Uphold all ISO and OSHA standards applicable to the responsibilities above.
  • Assist in the implementation of Kaizen projects and participate in suggestion program.
  • Check finished paint processes to ensure that it is done according to quality standards.
  • Inspect vehicles for proper functioning, completion of work, dimensional accuracy, and overall
    appearance of paint job, and test drive vehicles to ensure proper alignment and handling.
  • Keep equipment operational by completing Total Preventive Maintenance (TPM) requirements, following manufacturer's instructions troubleshooting malfunctions, and calling for repairs.
  • Assume extra duties as specified by Team Leader or Group Leader.
  • Other duties, as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma or GED minimum.
  • Experience: 1 to 3 years in a Paint Shop.
  • Preferred Certifications: Technical or trade school in paint, body, or ASE certification
  • Computer skills for running necessary programs.
  • Paintless dent repair skill preferred.
  • Experience working in a custom body shop preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001:2015) and Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001:2015), as applicable.

Physical Requirements:

Note: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee should have the:

  • Ability to use or operate assembly tools, i.e., electric powered dynamic torque tools.
  • Ability to walk or move - to regularly move about inside the office or onto the facility.
  • Ability to see or detect, identify, recognize, or assess surroundings while in the office or
    warehouse areas.
  • Ability to bend, turn, and stoop occasionally.
  • Ability to sit or be stationary for brief periods of time.
  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time.
  • Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time, duration of the shift.
  • Ability to constantly lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. and periodically 50 lbs.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing their job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will spend approximately 100% (excluding breaks and meal periods) of time in a manufacturing/ warehouse environment. When working in the facility, it requires the use of personal protective equipment, including (but not limited to) steel toe shoes, bump caps, and safety goggles. Reflective colored vest and ear protection is required in certain areas.

Total Rewards (Benefits, Perks & Compensation)
Benefits & Perks:
In addition to your competitive compensation, you will also be eligible for the following at Karma:

  • Medical Plan
  • 401(K) with Employer Match
  • Sick Time

Compensation:
$20.00/per hour - $24.00/per hour. Compensation will vary DOE.
At Karma, our base pay is one part of our total rewards package.
Compensation offered may vary on multiple factors, including market location, education, skills and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position being offered.

Karma Automotive, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender identity and expression, color, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), national origin/ancestry, religion, military/veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status, intersectionality or any other characteristic and group protected by applicable law. Karma Automotive, Inc complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability. Valid driver's license may be required based on essential duties.