Painter

Aircraft Painter

Pay Rate: $25.00/hr Location: Mesa, AZ

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Aircraft Painter to join our team. In this role, you will independently perform advanced aircraft painting and finishing tasks, applying complex paint systems and specialty coatings to aircraft structures and components. This position requires strong technical expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience with aircraft paint application, surface preparation, color matching, and quality inspections, while working with minimal supervision in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Key Responsibilities

Aircraft Painting & Finishing

• Apply complex paint systems, including metallic, high-gloss, specialty, and multi-coat finishes.
• Prepare surfaces to specification through sanding, masking, priming, and coating applications.
• Apply multi-stage coatings and final clear coats to aircraft structures and components.
• Perform detailed touch-ups, refinishing, blending, and feathering to restore finish quality.

Equipment Operation

• Safely operate and maintain advanced spray equipment, including HVLP and air-assisted spray systems.
• Utilize specialized painting tools, mixing systems, and measuring equipment.

Color Matching & Quality Control

• Accurately mix paints, colors, and tints to meet specifications.
• Adjust application techniques to achieve required color, gloss, texture, and film thickness.
• Conduct inspections and quality checks to ensure compliance with FAA and company standards.
• Complete required documentation and quality records accurately.

Technical & Process Support

• Read and interpret technical drawings, engineering work orders, paint specifications, MSDS documentation, and standard operating procedures.
• Troubleshoot painting defects and process issues independently.
• Recommend and implement corrective actions and process improvements.
• Mentor and assist less-experienced painters as needed.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Follow all environmental, safety, and hazardous material handling procedures.
• Ensure proper storage, handling, and disposal of paints, solvents, and related materials.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, safety, and efficiency.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Advanced aircraft painting and finishing experience
• Expertise in specialty coatings and complex paint systems
• Strong color matching and paint mixing abilities
• Experience with HVLP and advanced spray equipment
• Knowledge of paint chemistry and curing processes
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Quality inspection and documentation experience
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Leadership, coaching, and mentoring capabilities
• Commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum 4–6 years of aircraft painting experience
• Proven experience applying advanced paint systems and specialty finishes
• Experience performing quality inspections and documenting results
• Familiarity with aviation painting standards and regulations

Preferred

• Technical certificate in coatings, painting, aerospace manufacturing, or related field
• Experience training and mentoring junior painters

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, crouch, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods
• Comfortable wearing required PPE, including respirators, gloves, and protective coveralls
• Ability to lift and handle painting materials and equipment within company guidelines
• Comfortable working around solvents and airborne particulates while following strict safety procedures

Reporting Structure

Reports To: Paint Shop Supervisor / Team Lead

Collaborates With:

• Quality Control & Inspection
• Engineering
• Production Planning
• Safety & Environmental Teams

Performance Expectations

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Consistent adherence to paint specifications and quality standards
• Low rework and defect rates
• Accurate and timely completion of work orders and documentation
• Compliance with safety, environmental, and procedural requirements
• Effective troubleshooting and reduction of process-related defects

Additional Requirements

• Regular and predictable attendance is required.
• Candidates must successfully meet all quality, safety, and performance expectations.