Paint Prep Technician

Total Recon Auto Center • Laurel, MD

2d

About The Position

The Paint Prep Technician prepares vehicles for high-quality refinishing, ensuring surfaces are paint-ready and supporting the shop’s craftsmanship, efficiency, and attention to detail. The role includes preparing vehicle surfaces, applying preparatory coatings as directed, inspecting repaired panels, protecting vehicle components, and completing final cleaning before vehicles enter the paint booth. The technician also assists Auto Painters and follows OEM procedures, shop quality standards, production schedules, and safety requirements.

Requirements

• Knowledge of automotive surface preparation techniques, sanding methods, masking procedures, and primer application.
• Familiarity with OEM repair procedures and automotive refinishing processes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing paint-ready surfaces.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment while maintaining quality standards.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform hands-on work in a shop environment.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive movements throughout the workday.
• Ability to use hand tools, power sanders, and masking equipment for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience as a Paint Prep Technician, Auto Body Prep Technician, or in an automotive collision repair environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare vehicle surfaces for painting by washing, sanding, feather-edging, filling minor imperfections, masking, and cleaning according to manufacturer specifications.
• Apply primers, sealers, and other preparatory coatings as directed to support paint adhesion and finish quality.
• Inspect repaired panels for imperfections and perform final surface preparation before vehicles enter the paint booth.
• Remove, mask, or protect vehicle trim, glass, moldings, and other components from overspray and damage.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas, tools, and equipment.
• Assist Auto Painters with vehicle staging, material preparation, and moving vehicles through the refinishing process.
• Follow OEM repair procedures, shop quality standards, and production schedules.
• Safely handle sanding equipment, power tools, primers, solvents, and related materials while complying with environmental and safety regulations.
• Perform final cleaning and tack-off procedures before transferring vehicles into the paint booth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed