Automotive Refinish Technician – Buffing & Polishing

Pay range: $21 hourly

About Us

ADESA, is a Carvana owned company, currently operating over 50 locations throughout the US. Our Auto Auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services including repair & reconditioning, auction remarketing, and many of our sites serve as market hub distribution centers. Our inventory comprises hundreds of thousands of vehicles across North America from retail to commercial, OEM & more.

We work in a service industry and embrace a “we” versus “I” culture – help others, and they will help you. Our industry is fun, fast-paced, and competitive – and filled with the best people who are passionate about what they do.

We’re excited about the future! As an industry leader, ADESA is poised for a multi-year expansion including huge investments in facilities, massive sales growth, and an ever-increasing inventory of vehicles! We are looking for great people who want to take this journey with us! Get a sneak peek into life at ADESA!

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Automotive Refinish Technician specializing in buffing, polishing, and paint finishing. The technician will be responsible for restoring and refining vehicle paint surfaces after refinishing, removing imperfections, and producing a smooth, high-quality finish that meets professional standards.

Responsibilities

• Buff and polish freshly painted automotive surfaces to achieve a smooth, high-gloss finish.

• Remove paint imperfections such as orange peel, runs, dust nibs, sanding marks, and minor scratches.

• Perform wet sanding and machine polishing as needed.

• Use rotary and dual-action polishers safely and effectively.

• Select and properly use compounds, polishes, pads, and finishing products.

• Inspect completed work for defects, swirl marks, holograms, and other imperfections.

• Maintain clean and organized work areas and properly care for tools and equipment.

• Follow all shop safety procedures and manufacturer recommendations.

• Protect vehicle trim, glass, moldings, and other areas during the refinishing process.

• Work efficiently while maintaining a high standard of quality and attention to detail.

• Communicate with painters and other technicians to ensure vehicles are completed according to shop standards.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in automotive detailing, paint correction, refinishing, or buffing preferred.

• Strong knowledge of automotive paint surfaces and polishing techniques.

• Experience using rotary and/or dual-action polishers.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Ability to identify paint defects and determine the appropriate correction process.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Valid driver's license preferred.

• Willingness to follow safety procedures and maintain a professional work environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work around vehicles for extended periods.

• Ability to lift and move automotive parts and equipment as required.

• Ability to work in a body-shop environment where exposure to dust, chemicals, noise, and automotive products may occur.

Preferred Experience

• 1+ year of professional automotive buffing or paint-correction experience.

• Experience working in an auto body or collision repair shop.

• Knowledge of color sanding and paint finishing.

• Experience producing show-quality or dealership-quality finishes.

Compensation

Pay: $21.00/HR Experience Preferred

Schedule

Full-time | Schedule 7:00am-3:30pm Subject to change based on business needs

Physical Working Conditions:

This position is subject to both inside and outside environmental working conditions, including temperature changes, outside weather conditions, slightly elevated ambient noise levels, and minor atmospheric conditions affecting skin or respiratory systems, such as fumes, odors and dusts associated with body shop and paint operations.

Legal Stuff

Hiring is contingent on passing a complete background check. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

ADESA is an equal employment opportunity employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. ADESA also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.