Automotive Detailer

TruBlue Home Service Ally; Hillside (IL); On-site; USD 27,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

TruBlue Home Service Ally is seeking a meticulous Automotive Detailer to refresh vehicles inside and out at our Hillside facility. You will use a range of cleaning equipment and techniques to restore paint, remove defects, and leave vehicles looking brand new.

A strong work ethic and eye for detail are essential; prior detailing experience is preferred but training is available for the right candidate. We prioritize safety, efficiency, and quality control, including thorough inspections before

Qualifications

• 1+ years of professional automotive detailing experience preferred, with a willingness to train strong candidates.
• A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is required.
• Must be able to stand, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Wash, rinse, and dry vehicle exteriors including wheels and glass.
• Apply wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings and restore shine.
• Remove scratches, oxidation, swirls, and fallout using clay and compounding.
• Clean and dress exterior trim, plastics, chrome, and tires.
• Vacuum, steam clean, and shampoo carpets and upholstery.
• Clean, condition, and protect leather, vinyl, and plastics.
• Clean interior windows, mirrors, and panels to a streak-free finish.
• Apply deodorizers or use odor-control methods.
• Perform quality inspections before handoff to customer.
• Maintain and store detailing tools safely.
• Follow OSHA and SDS guidelines for chemical use.

Skills

Automotive detailing

Driver's license

Tools

High-speed buffers

Polishers

Steam extractors

Job description

We are seeking a meticulous and hard-working Automotive Detailer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for restoring vehicles to their optimal aesthetic condition, both inside and out. A successful candidate has a keen eye for detail, a strong work ethic, and a passion for automotive excellence. You will use a variety of specialized cleaning equipment and products to ensure every vehicle leaves our facility looking brand new.

Key Responsibilities

Wash and Prep: Thoroughly wash, rinse, and dry vehicle exteriors, including wheels, tires, wheel wells, and glass.

Paint Correction & Protection: Apply wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings by hand or using rotary/dual-action buffers to protect paint and restore shine.

Defect Removal: Utilize clay bars and compounding techniques to remove light scratches, oxidation, swirls, and industrial fallout.

Finishing Touches: Clean and dress exterior trim, plastics, chrome, and tires.

Deep Cleaning: Vacuum, steam clean, and shampoo carpets, floor mats, and upholstery to remove dirt and stains.

Surface Care: Clean, condition, and protect leather, vinyl, and plastic surfaces (dashboard, console, door panels).

Glass & Trims: Clean all interior windows, mirrors, and instrument panels to a streak-free shine.

Odor Elimination: Apply deodorizers or use ozone machines to eliminate smoke, pet, or mold odors.

Shop Operations & Quality Control

Inspection: Conduct quality walks to ensure the vehicle meets company standards before turning it over to the customer or sales team.

Equipment Maintenance: Properly maintain, clean, and store all detailing tools (buffers, extractors, pressure washers).

Safety & Compliance: Safely handle and dilute chemical cleaning agents according to OSHA and SDS guidelines.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

Experience: 1+ years of professional automotive detailing experience preferred (though we are willing to train the right candidate with a strong work ethic).

License: A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (to safely move vehicles around the lot/shop).

Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, bend, kneel, squat, and lift up to 50 lbs for extended periods.

Preferred Skills:

Experience operating high-speed buffers, polishers, and steam extractors.

Knowledge of different paint types and appropriate chemical usage.

Strong time-management skills with the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.