Aircraft Painter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of aviation, the role of an aircraft painter is more crucial than ever.
As the aviation industry continues to grow, so does the need for proficient individuals who can meticulously carry out, enhance, and ensure the quality of aircraft painting.
But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from an aircraft painter?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
- A hiring manager aiming to define the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the nuances of aircraft painting,
You’ve landed in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable aircraft painter job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s take off into the details.
Aircraft Painter Duties and Responsibilities
Aircraft Painters are responsible for the exterior painting of aircrafts.
They also perform maintenance checks and inspections to ensure the aircraft’s outer surface is in good condition.
Their primary goal is to ensure that the aircraft’s exterior meets the company’s standards and the aviation industry’s safety regulations.
Their daily duties and responsibilities include:
- Preparing the aircraft for painting, which may include cleaning, sanding, filling and masking
- Applying primer and finish coats with spraying equipment
- Using various types of painting and coating materials, such as epoxy and polyurethane
- Mixing paint and other materials according to specifications or formulas
- Performing quality checks for paint consistency and color match
- Inspecting the aircraft’s exterior for corrosion, and repairing any found
- Maintaining a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety regulations
- Documenting work processes, materials used, and time spent for each job
- Removing and reinstalling parts on the aircraft as necessary for the painting process
Aircraft Painter Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled Aircraft Painter to perform painting operations on a variety of aerospace products.
The Aircraft Painter will be responsible for preparing surfaces for painting, mixing paint products, and applying paint to the aircraft.
Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, with a keen eye for quality and precision.
Knowledge of color theory, paint composition and a steady hand are key traits for this position.
Ultimately, the role of the Aircraft Painter is to maintain the aesthetic and protective aspects of aircrafts to ensure customer satisfaction and compliance with industry standards.
Responsibilities
- Prepare surfaces for painting including sanding and masking
- Mix paints to achieve desired color and consistency
- Apply primer and finish coats using spray gun or other applicable equipment
- Inspect painted units for runs, sags and unpainted areas
- Perform touch-up painting as necessary
- Follow all safety rules and procedures
- Maintain clean and organized work area
- Participate in continuous improvement activities
- Inspect quality of work and take corrective actions when necessary
- Comply with all company policies and procedures
Qualifications
- Previous experience as an aircraft painter or similar role
- Knowledge of different types of paint and their applications
- Ability to mix and apply paint accurately
- High attention to detail
- Able to stand for extended periods of time
- Ability to work in confined spaces
- High school diploma or equivalent
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Aircraft Painter
- Work Environment: Aircraft hangar or paint booth environment. Physical activities such as bending, lifting, standing, and using hand and power tools are required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Aircraft Maintenance Manager or Paint Shop Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $32,000 minimum to $58,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Aircraft Painter Do?
Aircraft Painters work in the aerospace industry, primarily for airlines and aircraft manufacturers.
Their primary responsibility is to paint, varnish, and apply other finishes to aircraft or its parts.
This includes both the exterior and interior of the aircraft.
They prepare the surfaces by cleaning and sanding, and then apply a variety of coatings and finishes according to specifications.
They use a variety of methods such as brushing, rolling, or spraying, to apply paint and create specific designs or logos.
Aircraft Painters also repair the paint on aircraft and its parts when it’s worn or damaged.
They may need to remove old paint before applying new paint, which requires knowledge of various paint removal techniques.
They also need to have a solid understanding of safety procedures and regulations, as they often work with hazardous materials and in potentially dangerous conditions.
Furthermore, they work closely with other aviation professionals to ensure that the aesthetics do not compromise the functionality and safety of the aircraft.
The aircraft painters play an essential role in not just maintaining the visual appeal of the aircraft but also in its maintenance and corrosion prevention.
Aircraft Painter Qualifications and Skills
Aircraft Painters should possess a range of technical and soft skills to successfully perform their job role, such as:
- Technical knowledge of various painting methods and techniques, understanding the properties of different types of paint, and knowing how to mix them to get the desired colors and effects.
- Physical stamina and dexterity for standing, bending, stooping, and stretching for extended periods and handling painting equipment.
- Strong attention to detail to ensure a high-quality finish, precision in masking, and adherence to complex paint schemes.
- Problem-solving skills to identify issues with equipment or the application of paint and find effective solutions.
- Understanding of safety procedures and regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment and proper handling of hazardous materials.
- Communication skills to understand instructions, collaborate with the team, and report issues and progress to supervisors.
- Ability to work under various weather conditions, as some painting tasks may be performed outdoors.
- Knowledge of aircraft structures and the ability to interpret and follow detailed technical drawings and specifications.
Aircraft Painter Experience Requirements
Entry-level aircraft painters often have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically acquired through vocational school training or apprenticeship programs that offer hands-on experience in aircraft painting and refinishing.
These individuals may also have gained experience through related roles such as auto body painting or industrial painting, where they’ve honed their skills in painting and surface preparation.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have extensive knowledge of paint mixing, spray gun usage, sanding, and other aircraft painting processes.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional skills in quality inspection, corrosion control, and repair work.
They may also have leadership experience, making them suitable for supervisory roles in the aircraft painting field.
Employers often prefer candidates with certifications from recognized aviation schools or institutes, as this signifies advanced skill levels and adherence to aviation safety standards.
Aircraft Painter Education and Training Requirements
Aircraft Painters typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.
However, completion of a vocational training program in industrial painting or aircraft maintenance is highly beneficial.
These programs provide both theoretical and practical knowledge about different types of aircraft, safety procedures, painting techniques, and surface preparation.
They also need a strong background in using painting and sanding equipment, understanding paint mixing and color matching, and familiarizing with various types of aircraft coatings and sealants.
Some positions may require Aircraft Painters to have a certain amount of work experience, or a certification from a recognized aviation institute or body.
Aircraft Painters are also required to have good physical fitness as the job involves manual labor and working in confined spaces.
Although not mandatory, many Aircraft Painters pursue advanced training or certification in specialized areas like composite repair, corrosion control, or aircraft painting technology to enhance their skills and career prospects.
Having a certification or advanced training may indicate a candidate’s commitment to their profession and their dedication to continuous learning.
Aircraft Painter Salary Expectations
An Aircraft Painter can expect to earn an average salary of $44,536 (USD) per year.
However, this salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, certifications, the size of the employing company, and the location of the job.
Aircraft Painter Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Aircraft Painter need?
An Aircraft Painter should have a keen attention to detail, as precision is essential for this role.
They should also possess strong knowledge about painting techniques, the ability to mix paints to get the desired colors and finishes, and an understanding of safety procedures regarding painting.
Manual dexterity and physical fitness are also important as this job often involves reaching, bending, and lifting.
Do Aircraft Painters need a degree?
Aircraft Painters do not necessarily need a degree, but they must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Many employers prefer candidates who have completed a vocational training program in aircraft painting.
On-the-job training is also common in this field.
What should you look for in an Aircraft Painter resume?
When reviewing an Aircraft Painter’s resume, look for experiences that demonstrate their skills in painting and finishing aircraft.
This can include previous jobs or internships in aircraft painting or related fields.
Any certifications related to aircraft painting or hazardous material handling are also valuable.
Finally, physical stamina and the ability to work in various environmental conditions are key qualities for this role.
What qualities make a good Aircraft Painter?
A good Aircraft Painter is meticulous, ensuring every detail of the job is executed perfectly.
They should be familiar with various painting techniques and have a solid understanding of safety procedures.
Good physical stamina is important as the job often requires them to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying weather conditions.
Finally, they should be able to work effectively as part of a team, as aircraft painting often requires coordination with other professionals.
What are the daily duties of an Aircraft Painter?
An Aircraft Painter’s daily duties typically include preparing surfaces for painting, which may involve cleaning, sanding, and masking specific areas.
They apply primer and finish coats using various techniques and tools, and they ensure that the work meets specific standards for thickness, texture, and color.
They also clean and maintain their painting equipment, and adhere to safety protocols to protect themselves and the aircraft from damage.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve given you a sneak peek into the world of an aircraft painter.
And here’s the kicker…
It’s not just about applying paint.
It’s about bringing aircraft to life, one careful brushstroke at a time.
Armed with our comprehensive aircraft painter job description template and real-life instances, you’re now ready to soar.
But why stop at the horizon?
Fly higher with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precision-engineered listings or polishing your resume to perfection.
Remember this:
Each brushstroke contributes to the bigger masterpiece.
Let’s paint the skies. Together.
Reasons to Become an Aircraft Painter (Blend Creativity and Engineering)
How to Become an Aircraft Painter (Complete Guide)
Disadvantages of Being an Aircraft Painter (Above Cloud Concerns)
Unbelievable but True: The Least Paying Jobs That Might Make You Rethink Your Career
Not in My Job Description: The Most Hated Jobs in Existence
Exclusive Insight: The Best Paying Jobs and How They’re Changing Lives!