Paint Prep Technician

Total Recon Auto Center • Rockville, MD

1d • $18 - $25

About The Position

The Paint Prep Technician prepares vehicles for high-quality refinishing by completing surface preparation and related tasks before vehicles enter the paint booth. The role works alongside Auto Painters and supports vehicle staging, material preparation, and movement through the refinishing process. It requires attention to detail, efficient work in a fast-paced production environment, and adherence to OEM repair procedures, shop standards, production schedules, and safety requirements.

The work involves standing for extended periods, preparing vehicle surfaces, using pneumatic and power tools, and working around automotive paints, primers, solvents, and related materials. The environment may be noisy and fast-paced and requires strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

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.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing using virtual meeting and communication tools such as email, Google Meet, and Slack.

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 ensure proper 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 to prevent overspray and damage.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas, tools, and equipment to support an efficient workflow.
• Assist Auto Painters with vehicle staging, material preparation, and movement of vehicles through the refinishing process.
• Follow OEM repair procedures, shop quality standards, and production schedules to ensure timely completion of repairs.
• 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 vehicles are transferred into the paint booth.

What This Job Offers

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