Body Shop Painter

About the Role

The Body Shop Painter is responsible for preparing, painting, and refinishing vehicles to meet OEM, insurance, and dealership quality standards. This role ensures color accuracy, finish quality, and efficient turnaround while supporting overall body shop production goals. The Painter works closely with estimators, technicians, and the Body Shop Manager to deliver high-quality collision repairs and customer satisfaction.

Essential Functions / Key Responsibilities

Paint Preparation & Application

• Prepare vehicle surfaces for painting, including sanding, masking, priming, and cleaning.
• Mix and match paint colors using computerized paint-matching systems.
• Apply paint, clear coat, and finishes according to OEM and manufacturer specifications.
• Ensure proper curing, drying, and finishing of painted surfaces.
• Inspect completed work for quality, color match, and finish consistency.

Quality Control & Rework Prevention

• Identify and correct paint defects such as runs, sags, fisheyes, or mismatches.
• Ensure repairs meet dealership quality standards before vehicle delivery.
• Minimize rework through proper preparation, application, and inspection processes.

Equipment, Materials & Safety

• Maintain spray booths, paint guns, and related equipment in proper working condition.
• Follow all safety procedures related to paint materials, PPE, and ventilation systems.
• Properly store, label, and dispose of paint materials according to environmental regulations.

Workflow & Team Collaboration

• Coordinate with body technicians and estimators to ensure efficient workflow.
• Communicate repair status and completion timelines to the Body Shop Manager.
• Support overall shop productivity by meeting established cycle-time expectations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with general shop cleanup and organization.
• Support other painters or technicians during high-volume periods.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of automotive painting or refinishing experience preferred.
• Knowledge of OEM paint systems and refinishing procedures.
• Experience using computerized color-matching systems.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.

Work Environment

Body shop environment with exposure to paint materials, spray booths, equipment, and shop noise.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Frequent bending, lifting, and reaching.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Schedule

Full-time; may include extended hours based on shop workload.

KPIs

• Paint Quality & Color Match Accuracy
• Rework Rate
• Cycle Time Performance
• Compliance with Safety & Quality Standards

Compensation

$28-$50/hr (based on experience and performance)