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Professional Detailer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automobile Detailer

Earle, AR · On-site

$12 - $24/hr

CarMax customers expect vehicles that look exceptional, and you'll make that happen by performing professional detailing services--from paint retouching and interior cleaning to waxing and buffing.

Detailer

Lake Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Detailers Be sure to display friendly and efficient customer service Work closely with team members and follow our policies & procedures Maintain a clean professional appearance according to our ...

Detailer/Porter Specialist

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

The Detailer/Porter Specialist performs professional detailing services, conducts quality inspections, and prepares vehicles for delivery and member use. This role also supports daily operations by ...

Detailer

Lake Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

... professional appearance according to our standardsMust be observant, hard-working and detail ... orientedClean and detail vehicles,What We OfferWork in a Fast Paced Friendly environmentExcellent ...

Auto Detailer

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Experienced Auto Detailer Smithfield Detailing Smithfield Detailing is seeking an experienced, professional auto detailer to join our detailing team. We are looking for someone who takes pride in ...

CarMax customers expect vehicles that look exceptional, and you'll make that happen by performing professional detailing services--from paint retouching and interior cleaning to waxing and buffing.

Car Detailer

Warrington, PA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Communicate professionally with customers * Follow company quality standards and processes Requirements: * Valid driver's license * Reliable transportation * Strong attention to detail * Ability to ...

Auto Detailer

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... professionally clean cars, trucks, SUV and commercial vehicles this is the job for you. No ... Immediate full-time position available at auto detailing company in St. Peters, MO area. This is ...

Auto Detailer

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... professionally clean cars, trucks, SUV and commercial vehicles this is the job for you. No ... Immediate full-time position available at auto detailing company in St. Peters, MO area. This is ...

Showing results 41-60

Professional Detailer information

See salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do professional detailer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional detailer in the United States is $16.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional detailer?

Professional detailers are specialists who clean, restore, and protect vehicles to a high standard, often beyond what a typical car wash provides. They perform thorough cleaning of both the exterior and interior of vehicles, including washing, waxing, polishing, vacuuming, and treating surfaces like leather and vinyl. Their goal is to enhance the appearance and maintain the value of the vehicle. Professional detailers may also offer services such as paint correction, headlight restoration, and odor removal. Many work for detailing shops, dealerships, or operate their own businesses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional detailer?

To thrive as a Professional Detailer, you need thorough knowledge of automotive cleaning techniques, surface materials, and detailing products, often supported by on-the-job training or professional certifications. Familiarity with tools such as polishers, steam cleaners, extractors, and specialized chemicals is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and strong customer service skills help set top detailers apart. These abilities ensure high-quality results, customer satisfaction, and repeat business in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges professional detailers face when working on different types of vehicles?

Professional Detailers often encounter challenges such as removing deeply embedded stains, dealing with heavily oxidized paint, or addressing pet hair and odors in vehicle interiors. Each vehicle can present unique surfaces and materials, requiring a tailored approach and use of specific products or tools. Additionally, time management is essential, as detailing can be labor-intensive, and meeting customer expectations for perfection can be demanding. Collaborating with other team members, such as mechanics or painters in larger shops, is often necessary to deliver comprehensive results.

What is the difference between Professional Detailer vs Car Wash Technician?

AspectProfessional DetailerCar Wash Technician
CredentialsOften no formal certification, but may have training in detailing techniquesTypically no certification required
Work EnvironmentIndoor detailing bays, garages, or mobile settingsCar wash facilities, automated or manual stations
Job FocusIn-depth cleaning, polishing, waxing, interior restorationExterior washing, basic cleaning, and drying
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, luxury, and specialty vehicle sectorsCommon in high-volume car wash businesses

The main difference between a Professional Detailer and a Car Wash Technician lies in the scope of services and expertise. Professional Detailers provide comprehensive cleaning, polishing, and restoration services, often requiring specialized skills. Car Wash Technicians focus primarily on exterior washing and basic cleaning tasks, typically in high-volume settings. Both roles are essential in the automotive cleaning industry but serve different customer needs and service levels.

Do professional detailers make good money?

Professional detailers can earn a wide range of income depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a company. On average, they make between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced detailers or those running their own businesses potentially earning more. Income can also be influenced by skills, certifications, and the quality of service provided.

What do you need to be a professional detailer?

To become a professional detailer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good attention to detail, and physical stamina. Skills in cleaning, polishing, and using detailing tools and products are essential, and some employers may prefer certification or training in auto detailing techniques.

What cities are hiring for Professional Detailer jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Detailer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Detailer jobs?

The most popular types of Detailer jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Detailer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Detailer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Professional Detailer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,213 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Automobile Detailer

Carmax

Earle, AR • On-site

$12 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform thorough cosmetic inspections to identify detailing needs and ensure vehicles meet CarMax quality standards.

  • Execute paint retouching, waxing, buffing, and post-paint finishing to CarMax quality standards.

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, following CarMax's safety protocols.


CarMax rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 375 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 739 rated retailers


Job description

7218 - Memphis - 7771 Highway 64, Memphis, Tennessee, 38133

CarMax, the way your career should be! 

 

Position Overview

As an Automotive Detailer at CarMax, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring every vehicle meets our best-in-class standards for quality and appearance. CarMax customers expect vehicles that look exceptional, and you’ll make that happen by performing professional detailing services—from paint retouching and interior cleaning to waxing and buffing. Working in a modern, climate-controlled facility, you’ll enjoy a comfortable environment year-round while collaborating with a team of skilled technicians. Plus, you’ll benefit from paid vacation, comprehensive medical coverage, retirement plans, and exclusive car purchase discounts—because we believe in taking care of our people as much as our cars.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Perform thorough cosmetic inspections to identify detailing needs and ensure vehicles meet CarMax quality standards.
  • Repair and replace small parts to maintain full functionality and appearance.
  • Execute paint retouching, waxing, buffing, and post-paint finishing to CarMax quality standards.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, following CarMax’s safety protocols.
  • Collaborate with team members to deliver exceptional results and meet production goals.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Strong manual dexterity and physical stamina, with the ability to lift heavy objects and stand for extended periods.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and customer-focused mindset.
  • Valid driver’s license required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Hands-on experience in automotive detailing, including washing, waxing, buffing, masking, sanding, grinding, and paint application.
  • Ability to perform minor repairs and replace small parts efficiently.

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$12.00 - $24.00

Commissions:

This position is eligible for commission.

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commissioned are eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company. 
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday.  If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay. 

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval. 

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


What CarMax employees say

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About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US