Auto Body Painter Helper (Union)

Cox Automotive; Carleton (MI); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Cox Automotive in Michigan's Carleton area is hiring an Auto Body Painter Helper (Union) to support entry-level detailing and painting tasks. Under guidance, you will perform cleaning, prep, and basic refinishing work while learning automotive paint processes and safety procedures.

You'll document work orders, handle vehicle movement as needed, and strive for OEM-quality finishes. A valid driver's license and willingness to learn are required for this position.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in an auto body/paint shop, vocational, or automotive program.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record required.
• Ability to operate both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn automotive paint processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform vehicle cleaning and preparation, including washing, wheel cleaning, waxing, buffing, and polishing.
• Complete work order documentation.
• Prepare vehicle surfaces for buffing and refinishing.
• Remove imperfections and restore panels to OEM quality standards.
• Inspect finished body panels to ensure color match and consistent finish.
• Move vehicles as needed to support workflow throughout the detailing and painting process.
• Follow all safety guidelines and company procedures.

Skills

Auto body/paint shop experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Auto Body Painter Helper (Union)

Key Responsibilities

Serves as an entry-level technician. With guidance, performs Technician duties, including:

• Perform vehicle cleaning and preparation, including washing, wheel cleaning, waxing, buffing, and polishing.
• Completing work order documentation.
• Prepare vehicle surfaces for buffing and refinishing.
• Remove imperfections and restore panels to OEM quality standards.
• Inspect finished body panels to ensure proper color match and consistent finish texture.
• Remove compound and polish residue from buffed panels.
• Move vehicles as needed to support workflow throughout the detailing and painting process.
• Follow all safety guidelines and company procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 1+ years of experience in an auto body/paint shop, vocational, or technical school in automotive program.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record required.
• Ability to operate both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn automotive paint processes.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Regularly required to stand, walk, reach, talk, and hear.
• Frequently required to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, squat, and climb.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds (e.g., tools and materials).
• Ability to perform repetitive motions and maintain manual dexterity in a production environment.

SMCOX

Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.

EOE, including disability/vets