Reports to: Painter Lead

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