Paint Prep Technician

Total Recon Auto Center • Rockville, MD

16h

About The Position

The Paint Prep Technician prepares vehicles for high-quality refinishing, ensuring surfaces are paint-ready and meet manufacturer specifications and shop quality standards. The role works alongside Auto Painters and supports an efficient refinishing workflow, with a focus on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and timely completion of repairs.

Work includes washing, sanding, feather-edging, filling minor imperfections, masking, cleaning, applying preparatory coatings as directed, inspecting repaired panels, and completing final cleaning before vehicles enter the paint booth. The technician also protects vehicle components from overspray, maintains prep areas and equipment, and safely handles tools and refinishing materials in accordance with environmental and safety regulations.

The position involves extended standing and hands-on work in a noisy, fast-paced automotive shop, including working around paints, primers, and solvents. Strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment are required.

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.
• 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 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 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 to prevent overspray and damage.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas, tools, and equipment.
• 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.
• Safely handle sanding equipment, power tools, primers, solvents, and related materials in compliance 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