Automotive Refinishing Technician

Note: This trade is transitioning to a Pan-Canadian Harmonized program, so it is important that Apprentices understand how that impacts their program path. Details on the transition can be found via SkilledTradesBC, or contact your trainer for the most current updates.

Automotive Refinishing Technicians paint and refinish the surfaces of motor vehicles, whether it's a result of a collision, restoration work or a custom-design paint job. Technicians are involved in removing layers of old coatings, matching colours and mixing paints, preparing surfaces for painting by spot filling, sanding, and masking; applying primers, sealers, base coats, protective coatings, and cleaning and polishing painted surfaces.

Technicians may work in close contact with Auto Body and Collision Technicians who tend to work in multi-shop businesses, independent or dealership auto-body and collision shops. Their duties may overlap with Auto Body and Collision Technicians’ duties, particularly in small shops. Refinishing Technicians may also work as specialists after body repairs have been completed.

Automotive Refinishing Technician is a nationally designated trade under the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program.