Auto Body Prepper Technician

Cox Automotive is seeking an Auto Body Prepper Technician to support high-quality vehicle reconditioning in a fast-paced shop environment. You will clean, sand, mask, and prime vehicle surfaces to ensure optimal paint adhesion and finish quality, following OEM and Cox standards. Working closely with painters and body technicians, you'll meet cycle-time and flag-hour goals while maintaining strict safety and cleanliness practices.

Cox Automotive's inclusive, people-first culture offers strong benefits, training, and growth opportunities across leading automotive technology and remarketing brands.

Responsibilities

• Prepare vehicle surfaces for painting by cleaning, sanding, masking, and priming per Cox Automotive standards
• Inspect bodywork for defects and ensure proper repairs before paint application
• Mix and apply primers and sealers according to specifications and safety guidelines
• Use body shop tools and equipment, including sanders, spray equipment, and masking systems
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, following OSHA and company safety policies
• Collaborate with painters, body technicians, and estimators to meet quality and cycle-time goals
• Document work performed in shop management systems and follow repair orders
• Perform quality checks on finished prep work to ensure optimal paint adhesion and finish
• Follow production schedules and flagging procedures to meet efficiency and productivity targets
• Participate in ongoing training to stay current on materials, methods, and OEM standards

Required Skills

• Automotive surface preparation
• Sanding and masking techniques
• Primer and sealer application
• Collision repair processes
• Use of body shop tools and equipment
• Automotive refinishing materials knowledge
• Reading repair orders and work instructions
• Quality control inspection
• Shop safety and OSHA compliance
• Basic computer/shop management systems