Vehicle Prepper (or Paint Preparation Technician) - Edinburgh
Reports To
Paint Manager / Body Shop Supervisor
Role Summary
The Prepper is responsible for preparing vehicle surfaces for painting by performing essential prep work including sanding, masking, cleaning, and surface inspection. This role is critical to ensuring high-quality paint finishes and maintaining efficient workflow in the paint department.
Key Responsibilities
- Surface Preparation: Sand, grind, and feather damaged or old paint surfaces to achieve smooth, paint-ready finishes
- Masking: Properly mask vehicle areas using tape, paper, and protective barriers to prevent paint overspray
- Cleaning: Clean all prepared surfaces using appropriate solvents and methods to remove dust, grease, and contaminants
- Damage Assessment: Identify and document damage, guide vehicles toward repair or replacement decisions
- Inspection: Verify surface quality meets paint department standards before handing off to painters
- Material Management: Maintain prep station organization, inventory consumables, and order supplies as needed
- Safety Compliance: Follow all health and safety protocols, including proper PPE use and waste disposal
- Documentation: Record prep times, materials used, and any issues encountered
Required Skills & Competencies
- Technical Knowledge: Understanding of paint systems, surface preparation techniques, and automotive materials
- Attention to Detail: Ability to identify imperfections and prepare surfaces to precise specifications
- Physical Stamina: Ability to work with power tools, stand/bend for extended periods, and lift up to 50 lbs
- Problem-Solving: Diagnose surface issues and determine appropriate prep methods
- Communication: Clear handoff communication with painters and supervisors about surface condition
- Safety Awareness: Strong commitment to personal and workplace safety
Experience & Qualifications
- Preferred: 1-3 years experience in automotive paint prep or similar skilled trade
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Training: Certification in automotive prep techniques (desirable but trainable)
- Valid Driver's License: Required for moving vehicles within facility
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for 8+ hours
- Comfortable working at various heights (ground level to overhead)
- Manual dexterity for detailed work
- Ability to wear respirator and full PPE for extended periods
- No allergies to dust, solvents, or chemical compounds
Safety Requirements
- OSHA compliance knowledge
- Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Safe handling of power tools and chemicals
- Understanding of proper ventilation and respiratory protection
Performance Expectations
- Consistent quality output meeting paint-ready standards
- Accurate material tracking and minimal waste
- On-time delivery of prepped vehicles to paint department
- Zero safety incidents
- Professional communication and teamwork
- Continuous improvement and willingness to learn new techniques
Working Conditions
- Full-time position (typically 40 hours/week)
- May include overtime during busy seasons
- Indoor work environment with adequate ventilation
- Exposure to dust, solvents, and noise
- Shift work possible depending on shop operations
Pay: £15.00-£17.50 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
