Collision Painter Helper - Paint Prepper

About the role

The Painter Prepper / Buffer prepares collision‑repaired vehicles and body panels for refinishing and supports the paint department through final finish work. This role performs sanding, masking, priming, surface preparation, buffing, and related refinish operations to help achieve a high‑quality paint finish. The Prepper works closely with painters and production teammates to ensure vehicles are prepared safely, accurately, and on schedule according to manufacturer and collision industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare repaired panels and vehicles for refinishing through sanding, feathering, masking, and cleaning.
• Apply primer and perform block sanding and final surface preparation as assigned.
• Assist with paint application and refinish processes within demonstrated skill level.
• Buff and polish finished surfaces to correct minor finish imperfections and achieve delivery‑ready quality.
• Use refinish products, abrasives, compounds, and materials according to manufacturer instructions.
• Support color tinting and paint‑material organization as assigned.
• Inspect prepared surfaces and communicate defects or additional repair needs before paint.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized paint‑preparation area and follow PPE requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of professional automotive refinish, paint preparation, or collision repair experience.
• Hands‑on experience sanding, masking, priming, and preparing automotive panels for paint.
• Working knowledge of automotive refinish procedures, paints, coatings, abrasives, and finishing compounds.
• Experience buffing and polishing freshly painted automotive surfaces.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing a high‑quality finish.
• Manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination required to safely operate refinish equipment.
• Ability to work efficiently as part of a skilled collision repair team.
• Valid driver’s license.

Benefits

• Top‑5% Benefits Plan in America – comprehensive health, financial well‑being, and future support.
• Earning potential with competitive compensation, including six‑figure earnings in select roles.
• Career growth through ongoing training, certifications, and advancement opportunities.
• Supportive team culture that values integrity, customer‑focused service, and continuous improvement.
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid holidays, vacation & sick days
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid training