Sr. Automotive Painter

About Scout Motors

We're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history—a brand dating back to 1960 that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and trucks. Scout is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy steeped in exploration, caretaking, and hard work. We respect the past and the future by electrifying and digitizing an iconic American brand, loading it with innovation, including two powertrains: an all-electric option and the Harvester™ range extender with an estimated 500 miles of combined range. At Scout Motors, we empower inclusive, entrepreneurial teams to innovate and shape the future of transportation.

Responsibilities

• Perform dimensional inspections, equipment calibration, and measurement system verification to support manufacturing and quality operations.
• Work closely with engineers and production teams to ensure parts and assemblies meet design intent and GD&T requirements.
• Surface preparation: sanding, masking, priming, and cleaning surfaces before painting.
• Paint mixing and matching: achieve exact color matches using formulas and spectrophotometers.
• Spray gun operation: use spray guns and other tools for even and precise paint application.
• Apply paint application techniques, including base coats, clear coats, and Tutone finishes.
• Understand drying and curing processes, including heat lamps and baking booths.
• Buff and polish painted surfaces to remove imperfections.
• Repair body damage, including dents, scratches, and defects before painting.
• Maintain knowledge of solvent-based and water-based paints.
• Work on the production line and in paint rework areas.
• Understand and uphold quality standards for all paint defects and repair defects to target specifications.
• Adhere to safety protocols and contribute to a safe work environment.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance work processes and reduce material waste.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with peers, leads, and supervisors.
• Maintain professionalism, integrity, and accountability for work quality and conduct.
• Work any shift, including nights, weekends, and overtime as required.
• Train others and share technical knowledge with the team.

Requirements

• 4+ years of experience painting vehicles in an automotive collision repair or OEM production environment.
• Proficient in prepping, including sanding, masking, and priming.
• Experience with color management software, paint scales, and computerized color mixing.
• Proficient in spray gun operation and paint application techniques.
• Strong knowledge of drying and curing processes, adhesion characteristics, and paint layering systems.
• Experience in buffing and polishing to meet quality standards.
• Capable of performing minor scratch and dent repairs.
• Commitment to safety protocols and adherence to company and industry safety regulations.
• Vocational School Certificate in Paint Repair or Collision Repair preferred.
• I-CAR Refinish Technician Certification preferred.

Location & Travel

This role is based in Blythewood, South Carolina, and requires daily attendance. Occasional travel may be required to participate in company events.

Benefits

• Competitive insurance plans: medical, dental, vision, and income protection.
• 401(k) program with employer match and immediate vesting.
• Generous paid time off (planned and unplanned).
• Company holidays.
• Paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders.
• Paid leave for bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave.

Pay

This is a full-time, non-exempt position with a normal schedule of 40 hours per week. Overtime compensation is available consistent with applicable law and company policies. The position is eligible for an annual performance bonus program.

Competitive hourly wages range from $26.00 to $34.00, dependent on skills and experience. An additional $0.75/hour is earned after 6 months.

Schedule

Flexibility to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and overtime as required by business needs.