Aircraft Painter

About the role

Our client, an Aerospace and Defense organization, is looking for an Aircraft Painter for their Mesa, AZ location.

Responsibilities

• Apply complex paint systems, including metallic, high-gloss, specialty, and multi-coat finishes to aircraft structures and components.
• Prepare and finish surfaces to specification: sanding, masking/taping, priming, multi-stage coatings, and final clear coats.
• Operate and maintain advanced spray systems, HVLP/air-assisted equipment, and other specialized application tools safely and effectively.
• Perform detailed touch-ups, refinishing and feathering to match surrounding surfaces and restore finish quality.
• Accurately match and mix colors and tints; adjust application techniques to meet color, gloss, texture and film-thickness requirements.
• Read, interpret, and follow technical drawings, engineering work orders, paint specifications, MSDS, and process documents.
• Conduct and document inspections and quality control checks; ensure all work meets FAA/company standards and acceptance criteria.
• Identify, diagnose, and resolve most problems encountered in the painting process; propose and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain a clean, safe work area and follow environmental and safety procedures for hazardous materials, including proper storage and disposal.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to painting processes, safety, and quality.

Requirements

• Proven competence applying complex paint systems and specialty finishes.
• Strong ability to match colors and produce consistent finishes.
• Proficient with advanced spray equipment, mixing systems, and measuring tools (e.g., wet-film/DFT gauges).
• Solid understanding of paint chemistry and how environmental conditions affect application and cure.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and standard operating procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of inspection methods, quality acceptance criteria, and documentation requirements.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certificate in coatings/painting or related field preferred.
• Minimum 4–6 years of aircraft painting experience, with documented experience applying advanced finishes.
• Familiarity with aviation painting standards and regulations.
• Demonstrated experience in training/mentoring junior painters and performing quality inspections.
• Able to stand, crouch, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Comfortable wearing required personal protective equipment (respirators, gloves, coveralls).
• Capable of lifting and handling painting materials and equipment up to company-specified limits.
• Work may involve exposure to solvents and airborne particulates; strict PPE and safety practices required.
• Consistent adherence to paint specifications and quality standards (rework rate).
• Accurate and timely completion of work orders and documentation.
• Compliance with safety, environmental, and procedural requirements.
• Successful troubleshooting and reduction of process-related defects.

Benefits

• Health Benefits
• Referral Program
• Excellent growth and advancement opportunities