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Refinish Helper Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Painter Helper

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Summary/Objective The Painter Helper assists in the refinishing of damaged body parts and bodies of vehicles in accordance with manufacturer and dealership quality specifications and time standards.

... help you succeed--whether you're an experienced automotive salesperson or coming from another ... Repair, replace, and refinish body panels and parts as needed * Prep surfaces (sanding, masking ...

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Auto Body Techician

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$55K - $120K/yr

... also do refinishing of repairs to a flawless finish. Will work with team members to ensure ... proud to help you with all of your auto body repair, customization and restoration needs. Our ...

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Refinish Helper information

What is a refinish helper?

Refinish Helpers are entry-level workers who assist in the process of restoring and refinishing surfaces, often in automotive, furniture, or construction industries. They support skilled refinishers by preparing surfaces, mixing materials, masking areas, sanding, and cleaning workspaces. Their primary role is to ensure that surfaces are ready for painting or finishing, helping the team work efficiently and maintain high-quality standards. Refinish Helpers often learn on the job and may progress to more specialized roles over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refinish helper?

To thrive as a Refinish Helper, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation, masking, sanding, and basic refinishing techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with tools such as spray guns, sanders, and paint mixing systems, as well as adherence to safety protocols, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality finishes, efficient workflow, and a safe, productive workplace in automotive or industrial refinishing settings.

What are some common challenges refinish helpers face when assisting in automotive refinishing projects?

Refinish Helpers often face challenges such as maintaining a clean and dust-free environment, which is crucial for achieving a high-quality paint finish. They must also manage time efficiently while preparing surfaces, masking vehicles, and handling materials to keep up with tight project schedules. Additionally, coordinating closely with refinish technicians and following safety protocols around hazardous chemicals are essential aspects of the role. Developing strong communication and attention to detail can help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful refinishing results.

What is the difference between Refinish Helper vs Auto Body Painter?

AspectRefinish HelperAuto Body Painter
CredentialsNone required, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or apprenticeship often preferred
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, collision centersAuto body shops, collision repair facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with prep work, masking, sanding, cleaningApplying paint, finishing coats, color matching

Refinish Helpers assist Auto Body Painters by preparing surfaces and performing basic tasks, while Auto Body Painters handle the actual painting process. Both roles are essential in collision repair, with Refinish Helpers typically requiring less experience and certification. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position based on skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Refinish Helper jobs in Minnesota?

For Refinish Helper jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinish Helper jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinish Helper jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Refinish Helper job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Penske Automotive Group rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

Summary/Objective
The Painter Helper assists in the refinishing of damaged body parts and bodies of vehicles in accordance with manufacturer and dealership quality specifications and time standards.
Pay for this position is $20 - $23 per hour.
Essential Functions
  • Performs vehicle inspections, marks areas for dent repair, body work, refinishing, buffing, waxing and painting
  • Removes rust from metal, and grease and dirt from work surface prior to painting
  • Masks and protects parts that are not to be painted or coated
  • Fills cavities and dents with appropriate filler material to attain smooth surface
  • Mixes paint according to manufacturer's specifications
  • Selects and mixes coating liquid to produce desired color
  • Paints surface using sprayer or brush as appropriate to achieve quality repair
  • Inspects painted units for quality of workmanship, noting any runs, sags, and unpainted area and corrects
  • Heats and sprays wax or other appropriate coatings onto vehicles and products after they are tested
  • Operates all required equipment to perform necessary repairs in a safe manner and in accordance with company policies and applicable local, state and federal regulations
  • Maintains and wears all required safety and health personal protective equipment, including respirator, in the manner recommended by the equipment manufacturer and in accordance with company policies
  • Complies with all laws and regulations pertaining to paint, thinners, and other hazardous materials. Reports any deviations to management immediately
  • Communicates with service advisor and/or dispatcher if additional work is needed
  • Ensures that customer vehicles kept clean during repair process
  • Examines assigned vehicle to determine if further safety or service work is required or recommended and communicates this information as needed to appropriate body shop or service personnel
  • Verifies that repairs and painting are complete and to quality standards prior to submitting for final approval
  • Contains costs by using warranty or insurance as needed; evaluating service and parts options for repairs
  • Keeps supplies ready by inventorying stock; placing orders; verifying receipt of parts, paints and supplies
  • Maintain a clean, efficient work area and assist in keeping the shop neat and organized
  • Documents all work performed and recommended on the repair order in accordance with operating procedures
  • Understands the terminology of the automobile business and keep abreast of technology changes
  • Follows all attendance and punctuality standards with adherences to timekeeping standards; Employees are required to record the beginning and ending times of any shift, break or departure from work for personal reasons
  • Follows the Company Code of Business Ethics and Conduct
  • Understands and follow all work rules and procedures and follows lawful directions from Supervisors
  • Upholds the company's non-disclosure and confidentiality policies and agreements
  • Maintains a professional appearance in accordance with company policy
  • Attends pertinent training on request
  • Attends company meetings as required
  • Other duties as assigned

Other Duties
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
EEO Statement
The Company is committed to hiring a diverse and qualified workforce. We will not consider any characteristic or category protected by state or federal law in hiring or employment decisions, including but not limited to race, national origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, status as a parent, or genetic information.
Competencies
  • Able to wear all required safety and health personal protective equipment, including respirator, in the manner recommended by the equipment manufacturer
  • Able to perform quality refinishing of vehicle in accordance with company standards
  • Good communication skills including the ability to listen to customers and determine how to assist them
  • Ability to work well in a team environment
  • Knowledge of automotive systems, tools and repair processes
  • Outstanding attention to detail with an commitment to quality
  • Ability to use technical reference materials and technical manuals in written and online formats
  • Ability to communicate technical terms to non-technical audience
  • Ability to follow processes to ensure quality and safety
  • Effective time management skills and ability to prioritize
Supervisory Responsibility
None
Work Environment/ Physical Demands
Will primarily work in an automotive shop environment. Workspace is covered but may involve various weather conditions such as heat and cold as well as safety hazards due to the nature of work. May experience loud noise on a regular basis.
Medium/Heavy Work---Will lift over 50 pounds with assistance device required and/or frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to or over 35 pounds with assistance device available as needed.
This position will require the employee to be standing for prolonged periods of time. This position requires the ability to push, pull, climb, stoop, kneel, reach, grasp, and walk on a regular basis.
This position involves repetitive motion.
This position requires the ability to talk and hear.
Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
Work evening, weekend and holiday work hours as required.
Required Education and Experience
High school diploma or the equivalent and 6 months related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Education and Experience
Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year College or technical school; and two-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications (Certification/Licenses/Registrations)
ASE Certification is preferred

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About Penske Automotive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

About Us Penske Automotive Group (PAG) is an industry leading transportation services company operating more than 350 automotive retail and service locations across the globe. With over $20 billion in annual revenue we are a proud member of Fortune's 150 largest companies. While we sell and service the best brands in our World-class facilities, our strength and continued growth is fueled by more than 24,000 employees and the values they share. The collective dedication to hard work, integrity and customer service -- our human capital -- has positioned us as the World's premier automotive retailer.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bloomfield Hills, MI, US