How much does a Paint Prepper make?
A Paint Prepper plays a key role in the automotive industry. This job involves preparing vehicles for a fresh coat of paint. It includes sanding, filling, and smoothing surfaces. The average yearly salary for a Paint Prepper is around $44,247. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for Paint Preppers can differ. The lowest 10% earn about $30,000 per year. The top 10% earn around $72,750 annually. Most Paint Preppers fall in the middle, earning between $37,773 and $68,864 each year. This range shows that with more experience, earnings can increase. Job seekers should consider these figures when looking for opportunities in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Paint Prepper?

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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $53,832
In Pittsburgh, working as a paint prep professional offers a stable environment with opportunities in automotive and industrial sectors. Companies like PPG and UPMC provide excellent career growth and benefits.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $53,313
Austin's vibrant economy creates a dynamic setting for paint prep specialists. With tech giants like Dell and Apple, the demand for skilled professionals is high, offering competitive salaries and benefits.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $48,859
San Jose's tech-driven market provides a robust platform for paint prep experts. Working with companies like Intel and Google, professionals enjoy a dynamic work environment and excellent career prospects.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $48,667
Orlando's booming tourism industry offers diverse opportunities for paint prep specialists. With major attractions like Disney and Universal, the demand for skilled workers is steady, ensuring job security.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $47,331
Dallas's thriving business sector creates a strong demand for paint prep professionals. Companies like AT&T and ExxonMobil offer excellent career growth and benefits, making it a great place to work.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $45,256
Phoenix's warm climate and growing economy provide a favorable environment for paint prep specialists. With companies like Honeywell and Freeport-McMoRan, professionals can expect a stable job market and good benefits.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $45,186
Charlotte's financial industry offers a solid foundation for paint prep professionals. Working with banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo, professionals can enjoy a stable career with good benefits.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $44,799
San Diego's diverse economy provides a variety of opportunities for paint prep specialists. With companies like Qualcomm and Scripps, professionals can enjoy a dynamic work environment and excellent career growth.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $43,450
Columbus's growing tech sector offers promising opportunities for paint prep professionals. Companies like Nationwide and American Electric Power provide a stable work environment and good benefits.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $43,400
San Antonio's strong economy and diverse industries create a favorable environment for paint prep specialists. With companies like Valero Energy and H-E-B, professionals can expect job security and good benefits.
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What are the best companies a Paint Prepper can work for?

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Tesla
Average Salary: $71,069
Tesla offers exciting opportunities for Paint Preppers. They focus on innovation and sustainability. Tesla operates in many locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. Paint Preppers at Tesla work on cutting-edge electric vehicles.
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Crash Champions Collision Repair Team
Average Salary: $60,828
Crash Champions provides a dynamic environment for Paint Preppers. They have many locations across the United States. Paint Preppers here prepare vehicles for painting after accidents. They work on a variety of car models.
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CarMax
Average Salary: $48,134
CarMax is a leading retailer of used cars. They have many stores across the United States. Paint Preppers at CarMax prepare vehicles for sale. They work on a wide range of car brands and models.
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Altec Industries
Average Salary: $44,299
Altec Industries specializes in aerial work platforms. They have locations in the United States and internationally. Paint Preppers here prepare vehicles for painting and finishing. They work on a variety of industrial and commercial vehicles.
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McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing
Average Salary: $41,011
McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing produces heavy-duty trucks. They have locations in the United States. Paint Preppers at McNeilus prepare trucks for painting. They work on custom and commercial trucks.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $40,794
Aerotek provides staffing services for many industries. They have locations across the United States. Paint Preppers at Aerotek prepare vehicles for painting. They work on a variety of car models and brands.
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Gerber Collision & Glass
Average Salary: $40,401
Gerber Collision & Glass is a leading collision repair company. They have many locations across the United States. Paint Preppers at Gerber prepare vehicles for painting after accidents. They work on a variety of car models.
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Classic Collision
Average Salary: $39,868
Classic Collision offers collision repair services. They have locations across the United States. Paint Preppers at Classic Collision prepare vehicles for painting. They work on a variety of car models and brands.
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Dakota Bodies Inc
Average Salary: $38,000
Dakota Bodies Inc specializes in truck body repair. They have locations in the United States. Paint Preppers at Dakota Bodies prepare trucks for painting. They work on a variety of truck models.
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JOE HUDSON'S COLLISION CENTER
Average Salary: $37,384
JOE HUDSON'S COLLISION CENTER provides collision repair services. They have locations in the United States. Paint Preppers at JOE HUDSON'S prepare vehicles for painting. They work on a variety of car models.
How to earn more as a Paint Prepper?
Becoming a skilled Paint Prepper can lead to higher earnings. This role involves preparing surfaces for painting, which requires precision and attention to detail. To earn more, consider the following factors that can boost your income.
First, gaining experience in different types of paint prep work can make you more valuable. Working on various projects helps you learn new techniques and skills. This versatility can lead to higher-paying jobs. Second, obtaining certifications in paint prep or related fields can set you apart. Certifications show employers that you are committed to your craft and have the knowledge to do the job well. Third, developing strong communication skills can improve your job performance. Clear communication with team members and clients ensures that projects run smoothly and on time. Fourth, investing in quality tools and equipment can increase your efficiency. Better tools can help you complete tasks faster and with higher quality. Finally, networking with other professionals in the industry can open up new job opportunities. Attending industry events and joining professional groups can help you meet potential employers and learn about new job openings.
By focusing on these factors, a Paint Prepper can increase their earning potential. Experience, certifications, communication skills, quality tools, and networking all play a role in achieving higher pay.