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Painter Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. * Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. * Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. * Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. * Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

... paint or agreed-upon equivalent. Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

All JobsPainter Apprentice JobsPainter Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA

Painter Apprentice information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do painter apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for painter apprentice in Merced, CA is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a painter apprentice?

Painter Apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of painting by working under the supervision of experienced painters. They assist with preparing surfaces, mixing paints, and applying coatings on various structures while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeships typically involve both on-the-job training and classroom instruction to teach safety, techniques, and industry standards. The goal is to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become a professional painter. This entry-level position is often the first step towards a career in the painting and decorating industry.

What does a painter apprentice do?

The duties of a painter apprentice are to learn and perform painting techniques and other essential tasks under the supervision of an experienced painter. Typically, their responsibilities involve prep, such as masking, sanding, and laying drop sheets, and then applying paint under the direction of a supervisor. Other responsibilities include caulking, finishing, and touch-up work. After you gain experience and skills through training and instruction, you can become a journeyman. Qualifications to be a painter apprentice vary, but often include a high school diploma or GED. Some prior experience in painting or construction is useful.

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

To thrive as a Painter Apprentice, you need basic knowledge of surface preparation, paint application techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like brushes, rollers, sprayers, sanders, and personal protective equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively are important soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality results, workplace safety, and effective teamwork as you develop expertise in the trade.

What are the most common challenges painter apprentices face during their first year on the job?

During their first year, Painter Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering proper surface preparation techniques, learning to work efficiently with different types of paints and finishes, and adapting to physically demanding tasks like working on ladders or scaffolding. They may also need to quickly develop attention to detail to ensure clean lines and smooth finishes, as well as learn to follow safety protocols in various environments. Building effective communication with experienced painters and other team members is crucial for growth and a positive work experience.

What is the difference between Painter Apprentice vs Painter Helper?

AspectPainter ApprenticePainter Helper
Required CredentialsBasic high school diploma; on-the-job trainingMinimal; often no formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsAssist with prep work and cleanup, similar environments
Job RoleLearn painting techniques, assist skilled paintersSupport painters with prep, cleanup, and material handling

Painter apprentices are in training to become skilled painters, learning techniques and gaining experience. Painter helpers assist experienced painters with basic tasks, often without formal training. While both roles work in similar environments, apprentices focus on skill development, whereas helpers support daily operations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career progression in the painting industry.

Can you do a painter apprenticeship?

Yes, a painter apprenticeship is available and typically involves working under experienced painters to learn skills such as surface preparation, painting techniques, and safety procedures. Apprenticeships often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may include classroom instruction combined with on-the-job training, lasting from one to four years depending on the program.

How do you become a painter apprentice?

To become a painter apprentice, individuals typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and often complete an application or interview process. Apprenticeship programs are usually offered through unions, trade schools, or painting contractors and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, focusing on skills like surface preparation, painting techniques, and safety procedures.
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For Painter Apprentice jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Painter Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Painter Apprentice job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,992 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Auto Body Technician

The Boyd Group

Merced, CA • On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company: Gerber Collision & Glass

Great Teams Don’t Happen by Accident

Built with Intent. Driven by YOU.

At the Gerber Collision & Glass, our teams work to provide the elite infrastructure and supportive environment you need to Be the Best and outperform at every touchpoint in collision and glass services. As we continue to grow and lead the industry, we ensure you have the resources and the team behind you to move your career forward.


Ready to grow with a team that’s built for your success? Apply today.


Our Commitment:

The Boyd Group welcomes unique talents from all backgrounds and characteristics. We act with integrity and appreciate the diverse perspectives that make our "Greater Team" exceptional. Qualified individuals, including those with disabilities and Protected Veterans, are encouraged to apply.


Job Description:

The Auto Body Technician’s primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an exceptional and successful customer experience through the meticulous assessment and quality repair of each customer’s vehicle to restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company’s promise of speed, quality and customer excellence. The Auto Body Technician works in alignment with all team members in achieving the repair facilities KPIs and is committed to being a dedicated Brand Ambassador of The Boyd Group at all times.

Key Job Responsibilities

  • Ensure consistent execution of WOW (Wow Operating Way) plan.

  • Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers.  Uses various tools such as cutting guns, plasma cutters, hydraulic jacks, hammers, and pliers to repair sections of a vehicle.

  • Hammers out dents, dimples, and other minor body damage if possible; mixes and applies filler resins to repair  dents when other methods are not feasible.

  • Realigns car chassis and frames to repair structural damage.

  • Removes damaged sections of vehicles and replaces them with new or aftermarket parts. Replaces or repairs glass and windshields as needed.

  • Replaces or repairs interior parts as needed.

  • Welds and otherwise attaches or fits parts into place and Prepares and repaints vehicles with factory-specified paint or agreed-upon equivalent. 

  • Attempts to complete work orders within labor time guidelines.  Ensures all work has been executed correctly by inspecting vehicles after repair.

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body repairer.  

Required Skills/Abilities 

  • Ability to read job orders and work with very little supervision.

  • Ability to work with other repairers within an auto body shop. 

  • Thorough understanding of methods and procedures to repair vehicle bodies.   

  • Thorough understanding of how to use tools required for the trade.  

Other Requirements

  • Must be able to work safely in a noisy area with many odors present.

  • Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds at times.

  • Must be able to visually inspect vehicle damage in a variety of weather conditions.

  • Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel, and squat to perform repairs and inspections.  

Please note, this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The physical demands of your job must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.

#ABTWEST

Benefits That Drive Your Success
Gerber offers the comprehensive benefits you expect from an industry leader, including:

  • Annual Paid Time Off (PTO) plans

  • 2 weeks of Paid Parental Leave for Full time Employees who work a minimum of 30 hours per week

  • 6 paid holidays annually

  • Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental & Vision Insurance effective Day 1

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match

  • Employer Paid Short-Term Disability & Life Insurance

  • Additional Voluntary Life Insurance

  • Continuing Education Opportunities

  • Free Prescription or Non-Prescription Safety Glasses annually

  • Annual Voluntary Uniform Stipend

  • Voluntary Daily Pay option available 

About Us
Gerber Collision & Glass has been WOWing customers with our collision repair services for over 80 years. Please visit gerbercareers.com to learn more about our company.

AI Disclosure Statement:
At The Boyd Group and all affiliated companies, we do not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated tools to screen, assess, or select applicants for employment. All hiring decisions are made by real people who review each application individually.

Compensation Details:

FLAT RATE

$26 - $36 / Hour Flat Rate

Flat Rate Compensation is a performance-based structure directly tied to turned hours, also referred to as booked hours. In the event that total compensation in a pay period is less than minimum wage, clocked hours will be calculated with a guarantee of applicable local or state minimum wage, whichever is greater. 

Compensation is commensurate with skill, education and experience. 

Supplemental Pay: 

This position may also be eligible for Bonus opportunities tied to individual or business initiatives.

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