Paint Sprayer

Job Description:

Paint sprayers apply coatings and protective finishes to cars, vans, motorbikes and other vehicles.

Job Category:

Automotive & Aviation

See Automotive & Aviation jobs

What you will do:

As a paint sprayer, you’ll:

set up painting equipment
sand down and prepare bodywork
select, match and mix colours and shades
apply primer coats, main coats and finishes
use appropriate paint drying methods
carry out quality checks
clean and maintain spraying equipment and paint booths
follow health and safety guidelines at all times

Skills:

You’ll need:

to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
the ability to use your initiative (ambition)
persistence and determination
customer service skills
excellent verbal communication skills
the ability to work well with your hands

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College

You can take a college course that will teach you some of the skills you’ll need in this job.

In the UK, for example, courses include:

Diploma in Accident Repair Paint
Diploma in Vehicle Accident Repair Paint Principles

Some colleges offer paint spraying and finishing as part of an engineering course. Check with local colleges for more details.

Apprenticeship

You could do an accident repair technician or vehicle damage paint technician advanced apprenticeship.

Direct Application

You can apply for jobs in vehicle paint spraying if you’ve got experience and a qualification in vehicle accident and repair, motor manufacturing or engineering.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 40-48 hours of work. You could be required to work weekends on shifts.

You could work in a workshop. You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression:

Your employer may offer you the chance to work towards a form of accreditation. This could allow you to move onto senior paint technician roles.

You could also become a shift supervisor, quality control inspector or workshop manager.

You may be able to set up your own paint spraying business or specialise in car customisation.