Body Shop Buffer - Kearny Mesa Chevrolet

Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

The Body Shop Buffer (Post-Paint) is responsible for enhancing the appearance of vehicles after painting by performing buffing and polishing tasks. This role ensures that the final finish meets high-quality standards and provides customers with an exceptional product.

Essential Functions:

• Use buffing machines to polish the surfaces of freshly painted vehicles, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish.
• Inspect painted surfaces for imperfections, such as orange peel, swirl marks, or scratches, and address them through appropriate buffing techniques.
• Choose and apply the correct polishing compounds and pads based on the type of paint and desired finish.
• Perform detailing tasks as needed, including cleaning and polishing trim, chrome, and other surfaces to enhance overall vehicle appearance.
• Conduct thorough inspections to ensure that all buffed areas meet dealership quality standards before the vehicle is released to customers.
• Work closely with painters and body shop technicians to understand the specifics of each job and ensure smooth workflow.
• Maintain buffing equipment, ensuring it is clean, properly adjusted, and in good working condition.
• Relocate vehicles within the shop to ensure proper functionality after repairs and to facilitate workflow and organization throughout the facility.
• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe work environment and handle all materials responsibly.
• Maintain satisfactory attendance.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 1 year of experience in buffing or polishing, particularly in a body shop or automotive environment.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record; required to have California driver's license within 30 days following date of hire.
• At least one year of verifiable driving experience.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to perform all essential functions of the job description.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to achieving high-quality results.
• Familiarity with various polishing techniques and products.
• Skilled in the safe and effective operation of buffing machines
• Ability to identify imperfections and determine the best methods for correction.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and proper handling of chemicals and equipment.
• Willingness to collaborate with painters and technicians to ensure high-quality results.
• Dependability in attendance and completing tasks in a timely manner.
• Relevant certifications in automotive refinishing or detailing (e.g., I-CAR certifications).

Physical Demands:

• Frequently stands, walks, sits; uses hands; reaches with hands and arms; talks and hears. Occasionally climbs or balances; bend, stretch, stoops, kneels, crouches, squats or crawls to perform repairs and inspections; must lift up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel, and squat to perform repairs and inspections.
• Manual dexterity to handle tools and small parts.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Must be able to work in tight spaces.
• Stand for prolonged periods of time.

Environment/Noise:

• Work in well-ventilated and well-lit repair shop.
• Exposure to hazardous conditions and equipment that may result in minor injuries.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots may be required to ensure safety while handling parts and equipment.
• Work both indoors and outdoors.

• Noise level is moderate to loud.

Employee Benefits Include:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Employer Paid Life Insurance
• Employer Paid AD&D
• 401k (with Employer match)
• Vacation Package
• Tenure recognition and awards
• Vehicle Purchase Discount Program
• Vehicle Service Discount Program