Paint/Body Worker I

LEV; South El Monte (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Leader Ambulance in Southern California is seeking experienced Bodyworkers specialized in paint prep to prepare Type 1–Type 3 ambulances for final paint. Responsibilities include sealing seams, surface prep, sanding, grinding, masking, and applying body filler to achieve quality finishes.

Candidates should have 1–5+ years in paint prep, be able to operate air paint systems, sanders, and grinders, and comply with OSHA/EPA standards.

Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, comprehend, and verbally communicate simple instructions in English.
• Ability to perform all operations within acceptable quality and time standards.
• Ability to recognize the quality expected and reproduce it.
• Able to learn to mix primers and other paint products.

Responsibilities

• Seal all seams and prepare products properly.
• Wipe down areas to be painted with a degreaser.
• Sand and scuff areas with prior paint defects.
• Grind welds and fill with body filler.
• Mask off edges and areas where paint is not required.
• Paint, buff, and polish to quality finish.
• Meet QA and QC standards for each task.
• Promote Lean Manufacturing continuous improvement.

Skills

English literacy

OSHA/EPA knowledge

Air paint system operation

Dual-action sander/grinder operation

Education

Bodyworker III – 3 to 5+ years Paint Prep

Bodyworker II – 1 to 3 years Paint Prep

Bodyworker C – 0 to 1 year Paint Prep

Tools

Air paint system

Sanding/grinding tools

Job description

Since 1975, Leader has been exactly that: a leader in emergency vehicle manufacturing. We are a Southern California-based ambulance company that combines a strong work ethic with an unwavering commitment to safety and quality. The result is a range of Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 ambulances full of innovative features that can improve the safety and effectiveness of the crew. Leader Ambulance is part of Terex Corporation, a global designer and manufacturer of specialized vehicles and equipment, including fire and emergency vehicles, waste and recycling equipment, RV's, and machinery supporting construction, utilities, and infrastructure. With operations across the U.S. and globally, we are committed to safety, innovation, and quality while building products our customers depend on every day.

Perform all paint prep and body work to prepare vehicles for final paint. Prepare vehicles for paint by functions such as sanding, light body work, taping, and chemical washing items to achieve a quality painting surface. Occasionally perform heavier body work as required by production. Complete all phases of repairing holes, major dents, and other general body work functions, buffing and polishing to obtain an acceptable quality of the finished product.

Responsibilities

• Seal all seams and prepare all products properly
• Wipe down all areas to be painted with a degreaser solvent
• Sand and scuff areas on vehicles that may have prior paint defects
• Grinding all welds and filling with body filler
• Mask off edges and areas where paint is not required
• Take tape and paper off the vehicle after it is painted and dried
• Fill any dents and gouges in metal
• Air file, mix sand, and apply body filler to the finished surface
• Clean and maintain equipment and paint guns as required
• Use of chemicals safely according to established criteria
• Fiberglass laminations for repair or production as required
• Meet all QA and QC standards for each task
• Function with minimal amount of supervision
• Close attention to detail
• Meet all QA and QC standards for each task.
• Promote the use and applications of Lean Manufacturing continuous improvement tools as part of the culture.
• Be compliant with the rules of conduct and attendance per company policy
• Required to perform other duties as requested, directed or assigned.

Requirements (education, experience, travel, physical, work environment)

• Ability to read, write, comprehend, and verbally communicate simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos in English
• Ability to perform all operations within acceptable quality and time standards
• Ability to recognize the quality expected and be able to reproduce it
• Ability to run dual-action sanders, grinders, and miscellaneous hand tools
• Ability to spray primers with an air paint system
• Must be able to retain information taught with regard to chemicals and related items, and the proper usage of the same
• Able to learn how to mix primers and other paint products
• Must have general knowledge of OSHA and EPA standards

Education and Experience

• Bodyworker III 3 to 5+ years’ experience in Paint Prep
• Bodyworker II 1 to 3 years of experience in Paint Prep
• Bodyworker C 0 to 1 year experience in Paint Prep

Other physical requirements include

• Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 40#’s without assistance.
• Ability to work from various squatting, kneeling, or bending positions.
• Ability to work with arms above the head.
• Ability to work from ladders or scaffolding.
• Ability to stand at a workstation for eight hours a day (minus specified breaks).
• Ability to safely use specified hand, air, power tools, and machinery.
• Ability to operate and understand the operation of all protective safety equipment in the area.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Must be able to endure repetitive motions (hand crimping)
• Ability to work in noisy and dusty conditions.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts. Employees are frequently exposed to fumes, airborne particles, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is elevated.

Personal Protective Equipment Recommended and/or Required

• Safety glasses.
• Earplugs.
• Work gloves when needed
• Protective disposable suit
• Respirator when required
• Closed-Toe Shoes
• Work Gloves

The pay scale for newly hired employees in this position at this location in California is between $21.77 - $26.93.

This is based on meeting all of the requirements of the role. The base pay offered for the role may vary depending on the candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We are proud to offer competitive benefits in addition to competitive pay. Our pay for performance philosophy allows top performers to earn more based on their continued success. This information is provided per California Law. Base pay information is based on market location and may differ in other locations.

Terex Corporation is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity. The Company conducts all employment practices without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran's status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law. Terex Corporation also undertook affirmative action to assure equal employment opportunities for minorities and women, for persons with disabilities, and for protected veterans.

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Terex Purpose Video Terex Careers Video Terex Early Talent Video

Terex Corporation is a global leader in specialized equipment solutions, serving essential sectors such as emergency services, waste and recycling, utilities, and construction. Our diversified portfolio positions us in resilient, high-demand markets with strong long-term growth potential. We design and manufacture advanced specialty vehicles—including fire, ambulance, and recreational vehicles—alongside waste collection vehicles, materials processing machinery, mobile elevating work platforms, and equipment for the electric utility industry. Through our global dealer, parts and service network and true value-creating digital solutions, we deliver best-in-class lifecycle support, helping customers maximize return on investment. With a strong manufacturing footprint in the United States and operations across Europe, India, and Asia Pacific, Terex combines global reach with local expertise to capture opportunities worldwide. Our strategy is clear: exceed customer expectations, invest in innovation, leverage our diversified portfolio, and deliver consistent, profitable growth for our shareholders. For more information, please visit www.terex.com.