Paint Prepper/ Back up Painter

VIVE Collision; Port Reading (NJ); On-site; USD 25,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

VIVE Collision is growing and we’re looking for a dedicated Paint Prepper in Port Reading, NJ. You’ll prepare vehicle surfaces for refinishing, mask and protect areas, and assist paint technicians to ensure a high-quality finish.

Responsibilities include quality inspections, assisting with paint application prep, and maintaining a clean, safe work area in a fast-paced shop environment. Ideal candidates have at least 3 years in automotive refinishing, strong attention to detail, and good

Qualifications

• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare vehicle surfaces for refinishing by sanding, masking, cleaning, and priming.
• Mix, match, and apply automotive paint using approved refinishing techniques and manufacturer specifications.
• Perform blending and refinishing to achieve seamless color and finish consistency.
• Inspect repaired panels to ensure surfaces are properly prepared before paint application.
• Buff, polish, and finish painted surfaces to achieve a high-quality appearance.
• Mask and protect vehicle components that do not require painting.
• Identify and request paint materials and supplies necessary to complete repairs efficiently.
• Perform paint work in accordance with company quality standards and production schedules.
• Conduct quality inspections to ensure completed work meets company and customer expectations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Prioritization

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

VIVE Collision is Growing and We Want to Invest in You!

We are disrupting collision repair through People, Process and Passion.

As a Paint Prepper, you will be responsible for supporting our paint technicians. In this position, you will prepare various auto parts for the paint application process and ensure quality work has been completed.

Job Requirements

• Prepare vehicle surfaces for refinishing by sanding, masking, cleaning, and priming as needed.
• Mix, match, and apply automotive paint using approved refinishing techniques and manufacturer specifications.
• Perform blending and refinishing to achieve seamless color and finish consistency.
• Inspect repaired panels to ensure surfaces are properly prepared before paint application.
• Apply primers, basecoats, clearcoats, and specialty finishes in accordance with OEM procedures.
• Buff, polish, and finish painted surfaces to achieve a high‑quality appearance.
• Mask and protect vehicle components that do not require painting.
• Identify and request paint materials and supplies necessary to complete repairs efficiently.
• Perform paint work in accordance with company quality standards and production schedules.
• Conduct quality inspections to ensure completed work meets company and customer expectations.
• Maintain Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores that meet or exceed company standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while properly caring for tools and equipment.
• Participate in required training and continuously develop technical knowledge and skills.
• Demonstrate the company’s core values in all interactions.
• Follow all company policies, OEM repair procedures, and federal, state, local, and company safety regulations.
• When applicable, safely move and relocate vehicles in and out of the paint area and throughout the facility and lot to support the repair and refinishing process and maintain an efficient workflow.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support shop operations.

Skills & Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Minimum of three (3) years of automotive refinishing or paint technician experience.
• I-CAR certification or training preferred.
• Strong knowledge of automotive paint systems, color matching, blending, and refinishing techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret repair orders, work instructions, OEM repair procedures, and technical documentation.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing high‑quality work.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to effectively prioritize work and perform in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stoop, bend, squat, kneel and pull
• Extended periods of kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping to complete or inspect repairs
• Carry and lift heavy objects (up to 80lbs)
• Manual dexterity and eye/hand coordination to operate equipment