Panel Finishing Technician II — OEM Quality Buffing

Cox Automotive Inc.; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 23,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Bereavement leave

Voting leave

Jury duty leave

Volunteer time off

Military leave

Parental leave

Job summary

Cox Automotive Inc. in Tampa, FL is seeking a detail-oriented buffing specialist to ensure OEM quality appearance on refinished panels after paint. You will use finishing abrasives, buffing equipment, and compounds to refine panel texture in line with SOPs.

The role requires 2–5 years of buffing or body shop experience, a valid respirator fit test, and a paint training certification. A valid driver’s license and ability to lift light weights complete the profile.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years buffing experience or body shop/repair experience preferred.
• Valid respirator fit test required.
• Paint Training Certification as defined in HAPS 6H regulation required.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.
• Ability to stand, walk, reach, talk and hear for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Inspect refinished panels for color match and finish texture; report issues to management.
• Prepare surface for buffing using proper finish sanding products and technique.
• Restore refinished panels to OEM quality using rotary buffer, buffing technique, and SOP-defined compounds/polishes.
• Inspect remaining surfaces for overspray and remove as needed.
• Remove and clean all residue from buffed panels; ensure finish quality is acceptable.
• Follow safety and health procedures; participate in Safety Excellence activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

Buffing experience

Manual dexterity

Vision - color

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma

Paint training certification (HAPS 6H)

Job description

Cox Automotive Inc. in Tampa, FL is seeking a detail-oriented buffing specialist to ensure OEM quality appearance on refinished panels after paint. You will use finishing abrasives, buffing equipment, and compounds to refine panel texture in line with SOPs.

The role requires 2–5 years of buffing or body shop experience, a valid respirator fit test, and a paint training certification. A valid driver’s license and ability to lift light weights complete the profile.