PAINT PREPPER
Location: Lake Forest, CA · Full Time
About the Role
Crash Lab repairs high end and EV vehicles to factory standards and our Black Label service takes that commitment even further. As a Paint Prepper, you will be the critical link between body repair and flawless paint application, ensuring every panel we refinish is worthy of a luxury showroom.
Key Responsibilities
Inspect repaired panels for straightness, sanding quality, and filler work; identify imperfections before paint.
Perform meticulous sanding (DA, block, wet), feather edge blending, and masking to OEM guidelines.
Clean and degrease surfaces, apply adhesion promoters, sealers, and corrosion prevention products.
Mix and label primers/sealers per AkzoNobel/Sikkens specs; maintain accurate mix records.
Coordinate with painters to stage jobs for the spray booth, maximizing booth throughput.
Keep prep bays, sanders, and vacuum systems spotless and OSHA compliant.
Assist with periodic inventory counts of abrasives, masking products, and sealers.
Qualifications
2+ years professional paint prep or refinish experience (high end or EV brands a plus).
Solid knowledge of 2K primer systems, fillers, sealers, and sanding grits.
Able to read repair orders & follow OEM refinish procedures.
Familiar with CCC ONE or similar production software (preferred).
Must lift 50 lbs, stand/bend for extended periods, and hold a valid CA driver’s license.
What We Offer
Competitive hourly pay + productivity bonus.
Paid OEM and I CAR courses toward journeyman painter certification.