What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Collision Center Painter position at Classic Coachwork Collegeville?
Lead Automotive Painter – Collision Center
Fort Washington – Full-Time, On-Site
Compensation: $28–$42/hour based on experience
Location: 470 S Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, PA 19034
About the Role
Classic Coachwork is seeking an experienced Lead Automotive Painter to join our growing collision center operation.
This is not an entry-level position.
We are looking for a highly skilled painter who understands every stage of the refinish process and takes pride in producing high-quality work consistently. The ideal candidate has experience operating in a fast-paced collision repair environment and can work independently while maintaining production standards, cleanliness, and attention to detail.
This role is best suited for someone who takes ownership of their work, understands urgency, and can help lead paint department operations while maintaining quality and efficiency.
We are a non-DRP collision center focused on proper repairs, OEM standards, operational discipline, and customer satisfaction — not rushed production work.
Key Responsibilities
Paint & Refinish Operations
- Perform complete automotive refinish work from prep through final finish
- Prep vehicles and panels for paint including sanding, masking, feather edging, priming, blocking, and final cleaning
- Mix and match paint accurately using paint systems and blending techniques
- Spray basecoat, clearcoat, sealers, and primers to achieve high-quality finishes
- Perform color matching and blend adjacent panels as needed
- Buff, polish, denib, and finish vehicles to delivery-ready condition
- Maintain paint booth cleanliness and proper paint department organization
- Inspect completed work for defects, imperfections, and quality concerns before delivery
Production & Team Support
- Work closely with body technicians and management to maintain production flow
- Assist with scheduling paint work and prioritizing jobs based on production needs
- Identify repair or prep issues before vehicles enter the booth
- Help maintain cycle time without sacrificing quality
- Communicate clearly with management regarding delays, material needs, or quality concerns
- Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment
What We’re Looking For
Required Experience
- Minimum 5 years of collision center painting experience
- Strong understanding of full automotive refinish procedures
- Experience with:
- Vehicle prep
- Priming and blocking
- Color matching
- Blending
- Basecoat/clearcoat systems
- Buffing and polishing
- Paint booth operation
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Strong attention to detail and quality control
- Ability to maintain production pace in a fast-moving shop environment
- Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
Additional Experience That’s A Plus
- I-CAR certifications
- OEM certification familiarity
- Experience in a high-volume collision center
- Experience with waterborne paint systems
****** Important ******
We are looking for a dependable professional who takes pride in producing quality work and understands urgency.
This position requires:
- Accountability
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication
- Clean workmanship
- Consistency
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure
If you need constant supervision or do not have prior collision center paint experience, this position will not be a fit.
Compensation & Benefits
- $28–$42/hour depending on experience and capability
- Compensation will reflect experience, production ability, and overall value brought to the shop
- Stable full-time position
- Opportunity for long-term growth within the company
Pay: $28.00 - $42.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $28 - $42