Paint Shop Lifting & Transportation Trainee

About the Role

Join a structured training program that combines hands-on paint shop experience with exposure to Barnhart's specialized lifting and transportation operations, creating a foundation for a long-term career in the crane, rigging, and heavy transport industry.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a structured training program focused on paint shop operations and equipment maintenance.
• Prepare equipment and components for painting through surface preparation, blasting, masking, and finishing processes.
• Learn to apply industrial coatings using conventional spray equipment, pressure pot systems, cup guns, and other paint application equipment.
• Assist with painting and refinishing cranes, heavy haul equipment, fabricated components, and specialty machinery.
• Gain exposure to Barnhart's lifting, rigging, transportation, fabrication, and equipment support operations.
• Operate and maintain paint shop equipment such as forklifts, compressors, blasting equipment, and paint systems.
• Work alongside experienced team members while developing technical skills in a fast-paced, safety-driven environment.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to quality, efficiency, and workplace safety.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong work ethic and desire to learn and grow.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work safely in a hands-on, technical environment.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Ability to maintain a professional and organized work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude or shop experience.
• Interest in industrial painting, fabrication, cranes, rigging, or heavy equipment.
• Familiarity with paint preparation, surface preparation, or finishing techniques.
• Experience operating forklifts or other shop equipment.
• Previous exposure to industrial, construction, manufacturing, or equipment maintenance environments.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with weekly pay schedule.
• Permanent, full-time role.
• 401(k) program with company match up to 10% of pay.
• Family medical, dental, and vision insurance available after 90 days of employment.
• Paid time off and other benefits.
• Barnhart CARES family care and community service opportunities.

About the Company

Barnhart is built on a strong foundation of serving others. The company specializes in the lifting, heavy-rigging, and heavy transport of major components used in American industry, with a nationwide reputation for solving problems. With over 60 branch locations across the U.S., Barnhart offers team members constant opportunity for career growth and professional development. The company values Safety, Servant Leadership, Quality Service, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, Fairness, and Profit with a Purpose, fostering a strong team culture known as the “One TEAM.”