Aircraft Painter

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Job purpose

The Aircraft Painter is responsible for preparing, priming, and painting helicopter exteriors and components according to OEM standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements. This role ensures high-quality finishes that contribute to the appearance, protection, and performance of rotary-wing aircraft

Duties and Responsibilities

· Prepare aircraft surfaces by sanding, masking, cleaning, and removing old paint or corrosion.

· Mix and apply primers, sealants, and topcoat paints using spray guns or other specialized equipment.

· Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and paint schemes.

· Ensure precise application of paint according to color specifications and aircraft livery.

· Perform touch-ups and spot repairs as needed.

· Inspect painted surfaces for flaws and ensure quality control standards are met.

· Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, and time logged.

· Ensure proper handling, labeling, and disposal of hazardous materials.

· Support other team members during helicopter refurbishment, modification, or completion projects.

· Participate in daily team meetings to coordinate schedules and job assignments.

Workplace Safety:

• Comply with all safety policies, FAA regulations, and military contract requirements.
• Wear required PPE including gloves, goggles, and protective suits.
• Handle hazardous materials in accordance with MSDS, OSHA, and company protocols.
• Attend mandatory safety meetings, training sessions, and respirator fit testing.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, spills, or equipment issues to a supervisor.
• Follow FOD prevention and tool control procedures at all times.

SOP/KPIs:

· Follow all documented SOPs related to surface preparation, painting, and finishing.

· Meet or exceed KPIs including:

· Paint job turnaround time

· First-pass yield/quality

· Rework/rejection rate

· Compliance with safety checks and environmental controls

Team Support :

· Communicate clearly and respectfully with lead painters, technicians, and supervisors.

· Participate in team briefings and pre-job planning.

· Remain flexible and responsive to changing schedules and aircraft delivery timelines.

· Share responsibility for maintaining shop supplies and tools.

· Support a team-first environment with professionalism and reliability.

· Work cooperatively with maintenance technicians, inspectors, and engineers.

· Provide support to other departments during aircraft completion or repair.

· Train or mentor junior painters or apprentices when required.

· Maintain best practices and a positive working environment with all parties at the worksite.

· Coordinate with other departments to achieve outlined goals.

· Respond to communications (e-mails, meeting requests, Teams messages, etc.) set by team members in a timely and friendly manner.

· Learn SmartSheets project management software and take ownership of assigned projects.  Aid in the evolution of usage of this platform by spearheading best practices adoption.

Qualifications: 

• Experience: 2-5 years of experience in painting, automotive prep, or industrial coatings preferred. Helicopter painting experience highly preferred. 
• Certifications: OSHA 10 preferred; respirator training a plus.
• Legal: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Required Behaviors :

· Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and precision.

· Reliable, punctual, and capable of working independently.

· Maintains a high standard of professionalism and integrity.

· Follows instructions carefully and completes tasks on schedule.

Hard Skills & Education:

• Education: High school diploma or GED required
• Technical Skills:
  • Basic hand and power tools
  • Sanding, masking, and surface prep techniques
  • Understanding of paint types and surface materials (metal, composite)
  • Familiarity with shop safety and chemical handling protocols
  • Proficiency with HVLP spray systems, paint booths, and surface prep tools.
  • Knowledge of aircraft-grade paints, primers, and clearcoats.
  • Familiarity with technical manuals and aircraft service bulletins.
  • Ability to interpret paint drawings, layout markings, and FAA requirements.

Specific Soft Skills (examples):

• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Time management and organizational abilities
• Positive attitude in a fast-paced environment

Working conditions

• Work performed in aircraft hangars, paint booths, or shop environments
• Exposure to fumes, solvents, loud noise, confined spaces, and elevated work platforms
• PPE required at all times (coveralls, gloves, respirator, eye protection, etc.)
• May require shift work, overtime, and weekend availability
• Temperature variations depending on season and location

Essential Job Functions

• Stand, walk, kneel, bend, and reach for extended periods
• Use hands and arms for repetitive prep tasks
• Lift, carry, and move items up to 50 lbs
• Climb ladders or scaffolds to reach aircraft surfaces
• Tolerate wearing full-body protective gear and respirators
• Maintain physical endurance for fast-paced manual labor
  
  

Physical requirements

• Full range of motion in hands, arms, shoulders, and legs
• Visual acuity for inspecting prep surfaces and paint lines
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Pass respirator fit test and physical exam 

Direct reports

None