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Prepper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper - 2nd Shift

Roseville, CA

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper - 2nd Shift

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper - 2nd Shift

Rocklin, CA

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper - 2nd Shift

Rocklin, CA

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

Carvana

Auto Body Prepper - 2nd Shift

Sacramento, CA

$21 - $23/hr

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 ...

GAREZ INC

Preppers, Reglazers needed

Brentwood, CA

$13 - $25/hr

***DRIVER/PREPPER NEEDED IMMEDIATLY***WILL TRAIN*** ***REGLAZERS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY***WILL TRAIN*** POSITIONS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT ENTIRE BAY AREA*SOUTH BAY*EAST BAY* PENINSULA* OTHER* REGLAZING COMPANY ...

GAREZ INC

Preppers, Reglazers needed

Brentwood, CA

$13 - $25/hr

***DRIVER/PREPPER NEEDED IMMEDIATLY***WILL TRAIN*** ***REGLAZERS NEEDED IMMEDIATELY***WILL TRAIN*** POSITIONS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT ENTIRE BAY AREA*SOUTH BAY*EAST BAY* PENINSULA* OTHER* REGLAZING COMPANY ...

Calvin Wayne Cox

Automotive Prepper/Painter

Exeter, CA · On-site

$18 - $32/hr

Benefits: * 401(k) * Employee discounts * Paid time off Benefits/Perks * Careers Advancement Opportunities * Flexible Scheduling * Competitive Compensation Job Summary We are looking for an ...

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All JobsPrepper JobsPrepper Jobs in California

Prepper information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for prepper in California is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid painting job?

In the painting industry, commercial and industrial painters tend to earn higher wages than residential painters, especially when working on large-scale projects or in specialized fields like aerospace or marine painting. Master painters with extensive experience, certifications, and skills in spray techniques or safety standards can also command higher salaries. Overall, unionized or contract-based painting jobs often offer the highest pay rates.

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

To thrive as a Prepper, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience with inventory management, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and safety protocols is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities help ensure accurate and timely preparation of products, contributing to smooth warehouse operations and customer satisfaction.

What does a paint prepper do?

A paint prepper prepares surfaces for painting by cleaning, sanding, and applying primers to ensure proper adhesion and finish. They may also handle masking, mixing paints, and using tools like sanders and sprayers, often working in industrial or commercial environments. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety procedures are important in this role.

What are preppers and what do they do?

Preppers are individuals who actively prepare for emergencies, disasters, or disruptions by stockpiling supplies, learning survival skills, and making contingency plans. Their goal is to be self-sufficient and ready to handle situations like natural disasters, economic crises, or grid failures. Preppers often focus on food and water storage, first aid knowledge, and developing skills such as gardening, self-defense, and alternative energy use. The level of preparation can vary from basic readiness for short-term emergencies to extensive planning for long-term self-reliance.

What are some common challenges Preppers face when managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced kitchen environment?

Preppers often work in dynamic kitchens where they must juggle multiple responsibilities, such as preparing ingredients, restocking supplies, and maintaining cleanliness, all while supporting chefs and line cooks. A common challenge is prioritizing tasks efficiently during busy periods to ensure the kitchen runs smoothly without delays. Effective communication with team members and strong organizational skills are essential to handle sudden changes in demand or last-minute requests. Adapting quickly and maintaining a positive attitude under pressure contribute significantly to success in this role.

How much do body paint models get paid?

Body paint models typically earn between $50 and $200 per hour, depending on the event, location, and experience. Rates can vary widely, especially for high-profile projects or commercial work, and may include additional compensation for photoshoots or promotional appearances.

What is the difference between Prepper vs Survivalist?

AspectPrepperSurvivalist
Credentials/CertificationsMinimal formal certifications; self-education commonSimilar; often self-taught or informal knowledge
Work EnvironmentHome-based, personal preparednessOutdoor, field-based, often remote
Employer/Industry UsageIndividuals, emergency preparedness industryIndividuals, outdoor and survival communities
Search/Comparison IntentPreparing for emergencies, self-sufficiencyOutdoor survival skills, wilderness readiness

Prepper and survivalist roles overlap in self-sufficiency and emergency readiness. While preppers focus on home-based preparedness for disasters, survivalists often emphasize outdoor survival skills in wilderness settings. Both may share similar knowledge and certifications, but their work environments and primary goals differ slightly.

What is the highest paying job in auto body?

The highest paying jobs in auto body repair typically include auto body shop owners and specialized collision repair technicians with advanced certifications. Experienced estimators and managers also earn higher salaries, especially in large or high-end repair shops. These roles often require technical skills, certifications, and experience in the industry.
What are popular job titles related to Prepper jobs in California? For Prepper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Prepper jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Prepper jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Prepper jobs? Cities in California with the most Prepper job openings:
Prepper jobs near you
Automotive Paint Prepper - Experienced

Automotive Paint Prepper - Experienced

Dent Wizard

San Jose, CA • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Dent Wizard rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 335 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

For a quick application text APPLY1 to 82174
About Dent Wizard
Dent Wizard is the nation's undisputed leader in automotive reconditioning services and vehicle protection products - and our success is the result of the great people who serve our customers. We're stable, growing and have a strong business model, with opportunities in 43 states, 2.5 million vehicles repaired every year and more than 3,000 highly skilled employees. Help us reach new heights and receive the respect, rewards and recognition you deserve.
As a Tech - Paint Prepper, your essential job functions include:
Supporting one or more of our Paint Technicians, you will wash vehicles, locate, and remove imperfections on panels and treat scratches and chips with plastic or liquid filler. You'll tape up the cars, so we paint only the parts of the car that are intended, and smooth rough spots. After painting, you'll remove the tape, clean the vehicle, and prepare it for buffing.
Perform the following items (60%)
Surface Preparation:
  • Thoroughly inspect wheels for damage, cracks, bends, or other issues.

  • Evaluate the extent of damage to determine the repair or refurbishment required.

  • Inspect surfaces to be painted and assess their condition.

  • Remove dirt, dust, and contaminants from surfaces using cleaning agents, solvents, and other appropriate methods.

Sanding and Smoothing:
  • Sand surfaces create a smooth and uniform texture, ensuring proper adhesion for paint.

  • Repair minor imperfections or damage in surfaces, such as dents or scratches.

Masking and Taping:
  • Apply masking tape, paper, or other protective materials to areas that should not be painted.

  • Cover windows, trim, or any parts that need to be shielded from paint.

Priming:
  • Apply primer to surfaces to enhance paint adhesion and corrosion resistance.

  • Sand primed surfaces to achieve a smooth finish.

Quality Control and Service Excellence (30%)
  • Clean and maintain painting equipment, including spray guns, paint booths, and related tools.

  • Follow safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure a safe work environment.

  • Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with safety regulations.

Serve as SME Technician for the Division (10%)
  • Maintain records of preparation processes, materials used, and any issues or defects encountered.

Other Duties as Assigned
Competencies Required
  • Teamwork and Collaboration

  • Customer Focus

  • Communication Skills

  • Process and Planning Orientation

Position Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Previous experience in wheel refurbishing or automotive repair is preferred but not required

  • Previous experience in paint preparation, automotive refinishing, or a related field is advantageous.

  • Knowledge of painting and surface preparation techniques.

  • Proficiency with hand and power tools.

  • Strong work ethic, self-motivation and the ability to work independently

  • Toughness and grit to work outside in all kinds of weather

  • Valid driver's license and good driving record

Physical Job Requirements
  • Work in well-ventilated automotive repair shops or refurbishing facilities

  • Physical stamina to frequently kneel, bend and squat, as well as lift up to 45 pounds

Drug Policy
  • All applicants being considered for employment must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.

The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
The starting compensation is expected to be:
$ 60,000-$80,000/year
We offer a competitive & comprehensive benefit package including: paid time off, medical, dental, vision, and 401k match (50% on the dollar up to 7% of employee contribution). For more information on our benefit offerings, please visit our Dealer Tire Family of Companies Benefits Highlights Booklet.
EOE Statement: Dent Wizard is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act*), or any other legally protected status, with respect to employment opportunities.
*ADA Disclosure: Any candidate who feels that they may need an accommodation to complete this application, or any portions of same, based on the impact of a disability should contact Dent Wizard's Human Resources Department to discuss your specific needs. Please feel free to contact us at recruiting@dentwizard.com.

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