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Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Portland, OR

Puget Collision

Paint Prepper

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Auto Body Collision Repair: Paint Prepper Auto Paint Prepper The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of a Lead ...

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All JobsAuto Body Paint Prepper JobsTemporary Auto Body Paint Prepper JobsTemporary Auto Body Paint Prepper Jobs in Portland, OR

Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$19

$25

How much do temporary auto body paint prepper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary auto body paint prepper in Portland, OR is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary auto body paint prepper?

Temporary Auto Body Paint Preppers are automotive workers hired on a short-term basis to prepare vehicle surfaces for painting in auto body shops. Their responsibilities typically include sanding, masking, cleaning, and priming vehicles to ensure the paint adheres properly and looks professional. They work closely with painters and other technicians, following safety protocols and using specialized equipment. Temporary positions may be offered to meet increased workload or to cover staff shortages.

What does a temporary auto body paint prepper do?

As a Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper, your primary responsibilities include preparing vehicle surfaces for painting by sanding, masking, cleaning, and applying primers. You’ll need to pay close attention to detail to ensure that all areas are properly prepped and protected, which helps achieve a flawless paint finish. One common challenge is working efficiently under tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards, especially in busy auto body shops. Collaboration with painters and technicians is essential, as clear communication helps prevent errors and keeps the workflow smooth. This role offers valuable hands-on experience in auto body repair, which can be a stepping stone toward more advanced positions in the industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a temporary auto body paint prepper?

To excel as a Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation techniques, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of automotive refinishing processes, typically acquired through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with sanding tools, masking materials, paint booths, and safety equipment is important, and OSHA safety certification is often preferred. Strong time management, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure vehicles are properly prepped for painting, which is crucial for achieving high-quality finishes and efficient workflow in auto body shops.

What is the difference between Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper vs Auto Body Painter?

AspectTemporary Auto Body Paint PrepperAuto Body Painter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, specialized training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, collision centersAuto body shops, collision repair facilities
Job FocusPreparing surfaces, sanding, maskingApplying paint, finishing coats
Common Search IntentSurface prep, masking, sandingPainting, finishing, color matching

The main difference is that a Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper focuses on preparing vehicle surfaces through sanding and masking, while an Auto Body Painter specializes in applying paint and finishing coats. Both roles often work together in collision repair shops, but their core responsibilities differ, with the prepper ensuring surfaces are ready for painting and the painter executing the actual paint application.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs in Portland, OR are:

Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Auto Body Paint Prepper job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,537 per year, or $19 per hour.

Paint Prepper

Puget Collision

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Auto Body Collision Repair: Paint Prepper

Job Description: Auto Paint Prepper


The Automotive Paint Prepper is responsible for accurate paint application for every vehicle repaired under the supervision of a Lead Painter. The paint helper must ensure quality in protection of vehicle and paint application while providing a timely delivery to meet repair target dates.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Work Location: Full Time Hourly

Job Responsibilities:

  • Inspect quality of repairs, received by the Body Department before painting begins.
  • Ensures safe and organized vehicle flow in and out for the Paint department
  • Adhere to paint production schedule as designated by Lead Painter
  • Capable of operating Spray Booth & other paint related equipment
  • Ability to mask and apply protection for a vehicle appropriately.
  • Knowledgeable in cleaning and sand prepping the area for spraying.
  • Accurately selects paint materials and mixes paint accurately to color code.
  • Ability to spot paint accurately, seeing details at a close range and judging colors accurately.
  • Skilled in applying paint that is corrosion resistant and creates a smooth, consistent finish.
  • Ability to disassemble, clean and reassemble painting equipment
  • Return spray booth and mix room to pre-paint condition after each repair.
  • Ensures a clean and safe work area, utilizing PPE equipment effectively, hazardous waste compliance is followed.
  • Bring shortages of supplies to the attention of the Lead Painter for replenishment
  • Adhere to company standard for paint supplies and product.

Key Performance Metrics

  • Paint Gross Profit of 60% or higher with efficient paint usage and limited overuse
  • Customer Service Index Score 95+ for Quality, Done on Time, and Net Promoter Score
  • Cycle Time Efficiency

Skills/Technical Qualifications:

  • I-CAR Certification required withing 1st year of employment.
  • Basic understanding of all facets of paint application for automobile collision repair.
  • The ability to read, understand, and perform written instructions accurately and consistently and to work independently as well as with others in an organized manner.


Behavioral Excellence Required:

  • Perform all assigned responsibilities according to the Company Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Participate in training programs as required to maintain the technical and professional skills and techniques necessary for this position
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area always, adhering to 5S organization.
  • Extend normal working hours as necessary to accommodate workload and customer requirements.


Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to work in an automotive collision repair and paint shop environment for extended periods.
  • Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods throughout the workday.
  • Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and reach while preparing vehicle surfaces for paint.
  • Ability to work in various positions, including above shoulder level, below waist level, and in confined spaces.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds occasionally and up to 25 pounds frequently.
  • Ability to use hands and fingers for repetitive sanding, masking, cleaning, taping, buffing, and operation of hand and power tools.
  • Ability to safely operate sanding equipment, spray guns, buffers, grinders, and other paint preparation tools and equipment.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions for extended periods while maintaining quality and productivity standards.
  • Ability to visually inspect vehicle surfaces for dents, imperfections, contaminants, paint defects, and repair quality, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision.
  • Ability to distinguish colors and color variations for paint preparation and quality control purposes.
  • Ability to enter, exit, and maneuver around vehicles of various sizes and configurations.
  • Ability to safely navigate around moving vehicles, equipment, tools, and active repair operations.
  • Ability to tolerate exposure to noise, dust, paint fumes, solvents, chemicals, and varying temperatures while utilizing required personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators when necessary.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with painters, technicians, supervisors, and coworkers regarding repair status, quality concerns, and production needs.
  • Ability to maintain a clean and organized work area and follow all safety procedures in a fast-paced production environment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.