Body Shop Technician - Painter

Delavanchevy; 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/refinishing experience to join our Sterling CDJR Body Shop. This role is responsible for high-quality collision repairs and paint refinishing to restore vehicles to pre-accident condition.

The technician will perform bodywork, blending, color matching, and refinishing, while maintaining safety and efficiency in a fast-paced shop environment. A strong eye for detail is essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of collision repair experience with hands-on paint/refinishing.
• Proficiency with 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, I-CAR Welding, and paint/refinishing certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural and non-structural repairs according to OEM standards.
• Repair, refinish body panels and parts with OEM-quality finishes.
• Prep surfaces, mix and apply paint, and ensure color accuracy.
• Operate spray equipment and maintain paint booth safety.
• Conduct quality checks and document work performed.
• Coordinate with estimators, painters, and parts personnel to meet timelines.
• Maintain tools and workspaces and follow safety guidelines.

Skills

5+ years collision repair

paint/refinishing

color matching

tinting and blending

Tools

Frame machines

Spray equipment

Welding 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.