Auto Body Painter in Saint Cloud, Minnesota at Gilleland Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Auto Body Painter to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing, color-matching, and applying high-quality finishes to a wide range of vehicles.

This is a bargaining unit position represented by AFL-CIO Local 623, offering competitive union wages, structured progression, excellent health benefits, and standard work hours defined by our collective bargaining agreement.

Key Responsibilities

• Surface Preparation: Clean, sand, mask, and prime vehicle surfaces prior to painting according to manufacturer and shop standards.
• Color Matching & Mixing: Utilize digital color-matching systems and manual techniques to mix custom paints, topcoats, and primers to precise specifications.
• Paint Application: Apply basecoats, clearcoats, and specialty finishes using spray guns and automated equipment in a spray booth environment.
• Finishing & Quality Control: Inspect completed work for runs, sags, or defects; perform color sanding, buffing, and polishing to achieve a factory finish.
• Equipment Maintenance: Maintain and clean spray guns, booths, filters, and safety equipment in compliance with OSHA and local environmental standards.
• Documentation: Track materials used and work order details accurately.

Union Compensation & Benefits

• Wages: Competitive hourly pay scale set by AFL-CIO Local 623 CBA with predictable step increases.
• Healthcare: Full union medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Retirement: Union pension plan and optional 401(k) program.
• Paid Time Off: Paid holidays, vacation/sick leave based on seniority.
• Workplace Protection: Strong workplace safety guidelines, seniority protections, and representation.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Minimum of [3–5] years of professional automotive painting or collision repair experience required.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with spray equipment, paint-mixing systems, and surface preparation techniques.
• Certifications: ASE B2 (Painting & Refinishing) or ICAR certification is preferred (or ability to complete within standard probationary period).
• Physical Demands: Ability to stand for extended periods, wear required PPE (including respirators), lift up to 50 lbs, and work in paint booth environments.
• Union Requirement: Must be a member in good standing of AFL-CIO Local 623 or eligible to join upon hiring per agreement terms.