Spray Painter (Vehicle)

Also known as:

Car Spray Painter
Painter, Vehicle Spray
Vehicle Spray Painter
Vehicle Body Refinisher

Introduction

Spray painters apply a paint finish to new vehicles and those that have been damaged in accidents. They prepare the surface to be sprayed and make sure that the paint they use has been mixed and prepared properly to produce or match the right colour for the vehicle.

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Work Activities

When a vehicle is in need of repair because of accident damage, the spray painter receives the vehicle from the body repairer, who will have replaced or repaired any damaged body panels. They inspect and clean the repaired area and think about what they need to do to complete the repair. They may discuss how they are going to do it with the customer or the manager.

Spray painters need to smooth the surface of the metal. They can do this by hand, with special types of sandpaper, or by using a machine. Next, the spray painter checks the surface by looking at it and touching it to ensure a smooth, shiny surface for the new paint to adhere to.

The next task is to prepare and apply the paint. It is very important that the colours and tints exactly match the existing surfaces. They may use computerised paint mixing technology to get the correct match. Painters use a hand-held spray gun that applies the paint in a fine spray. They usually need to apply several coats to prevent the metal from rusting. This is usually done in spray booths.

When the paint is dry, painters polish the surface so that it blends with the rest of the vehicle.

The workshop can be noisy and dirty. Painters need to wear protective clothing, including masks and goggles.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

Spray painters should enjoy practical and physically active work. You need to be able to interpret written instructions and technical information.

Spray painters have to be able to operate and control a range of specialised equipment. This requires good co-ordination and hand skills.

You should have good communication skills when dealing directly with the customers. You should be responsible and safety conscious.

The work may be unsuitable for you if you have respiratory or bronchial conditions. You may have to do a colour vision test.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Fully qualified vehicle body refinishers earn in the range of £280 - £340 a week, rising to £370 - £450 a week. Higher earners can make around £520 a week.

They usually work a 39-hour week. Shift work, overtime and Saturday working may be required.

Employers include motor vehicle retail dealerships throughout the country.

Other employers are firms and organisations with large fleets of vehicles. These include road haulage companies, bus and coach operators, public utility companies, supermarket chains, local councils, and taxi and delivery companies. Railway operators may also have opportunities.

Qualified and experienced spray painters may become self-employed or move into related areas such as insurance assessment or equipment sales.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Entrants with skills and abilities gained in vehicle body repair work, have opportunities to enter further training.

Modern Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

• 14% of spray painters (vehicle) are self-employed.

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