Body Shop Technician - Painter

Kunes Auto Group; Sterling (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Kunes Auto Group in Sterling, IL is seeking a Body Shop Technician with strong painting and refinishing experience to join our CDJR Body Shop. The role focuses on high-quality collision repairs and OEM-grade refinishing to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of hands-on collision repair, expert color matching, and proficiency with spray equipment, paint booths, and frame machines.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of collision repair experience with hands-on paint/refinishing
• Proficiency in color matching, tinting, and blending across major paint systems
• Knowledge of modern vehicle construction, repair techniques, and safety standards
• Ability to weld, use frame machines, hand tools, spray equipment, and specialized body repair equipment
• I-CAR certifications preferred (including welding) and a clean driving license

Responsibilities

• Perform structural and non-structural repairs per OEM standards
• Complete bodywork including panel replacement, dent repair, welding, sanding, filling, aligning components
• Repair and refinishing body panels and parts as needed
• Prep surfaces and apply paint with color matching to OEM finishes
• Operate spray guns, paint booths, and mixing systems; apply clear coats and blend panels

Skills

Paint refinishing

Color matching

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Education

I-CAR certifications

I-CAR Welding certification

Tools

Spray equipment

Paint booth

Frame machines

Welding equipment

Hand tools

Job description

Description

Description

Kunes Auto Group, one of the fastest growing dealerships in the Midwest, is seeking a Body Shop Technician with strong painting/refinishing experience to join our Sterling CDJR Body Shop.

Position Summary

The Body Shop Technician is responsible for performing high-quality collision repairs and paint refinishing, ensuring vehicles are restored to pre-accident condition with precision, safety, and efficiency. This role requires strong technical and painting skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced repair environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural and non-structural repairs according to OEM and industry standards.
• Complete bodywork including panel replacement, dent repair, welding, sanding, filling, and aligning body components.
• Repair, replace, and refinish body panels and parts as needed.
• Prep surfaces (sanding, masking, priming) and mix, match, and apply paint using color-matching techniques to achieve OEM-quality finishes.
• Operate spray guns, paint booths, and mixing systems; apply clear coats and blend panels for seamless color matches.
• Conduct quality checks throughout the repair and paint process to ensure accuracy and craftsmanship.
• Work closely with estimators, painters, and parts personnel to maintain workflow and repair timelines.
• Follow repair orders, document work performed, and maintain proper repair records.
• Ensure tools, equipment, and workspaces (including paint booth and mixing room) are kept clean and maintained.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines, including proper use of PPE, respirators, and paint/spray equipment.
• Stay current on training, repair techniques, paint systems, and manufacturer procedures.

Requirements

Experience

• 5+ years of collision repair experience required, with hands-on paint/refinishing
• experience.
• Proficiency with color matching, tinting, and blending techniques across major paint systems.
• Knowledge of modern vehicle construction, repair techniques, and safety standards.
• Ability to weld, use frame machines, hand tools, spray equipment, and specialized body repair equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Valid drivers license with a clean driving record.
• I-CAR, I-CAR Welding, and paint/refinishing certifications preferred.

Compensation

• $50K - $75K based on experience

Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.