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Aircraft Painting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Van's Aircraft, Inc.

Aircraft Painter

Aurora, OR · On-site

$25.25 - $32/hr

If you're skilled in aircraft preparation, painting, and detailing, this is your opportunity to make an impact and grow with our organization. Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept: As an ...

TSMG

Aircraft Painter

Seattle, WA

$27.50 - $35/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and painting aircraft surfaces to meet high industry standards. As an Aircraft Painter, you will work on a variety of aircraft types, ensuring the ...

TSMG

Aircraft Painter

Seattle, WA

$27.50 - $35/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and painting aircraft surfaces to meet high industry standards. As an Aircraft Painter, you will work on a variety of aircraft types, ensuring the ...

AAA USA Inc

Aircraft Painter

Mobile, AL · On-site

$24.25 - $30.50/hr

We are seeking skilled professionals with experience preparing, masking, priming, and painting aircraft components, aerostructures, and assemblies while maintaining the highest standards of quality ...

STS Technical Services

Aircraft Painters

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$23.25 - $29.25/hr

Prepare aircraft surfaces for painting through sanding, media blasting, chemical stripping, and solvent cleaning * Assist with masking for paint schemes, decals, and aircraft markings * Identify and ...

TSMG

Aircraft Painter

Los Angeles, CA

$26.25 - $33.25/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and painting aircraft surfaces to meet high industry standards. As an Aircraft Painter, you will work on a variety of aircraft types, ensuring the ...

TSMG

Aircraft Painter

Los Angeles, CA

$26.25 - $33.25/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and painting aircraft surfaces to meet high industry standards. As an Aircraft Painter, you will work on a variety of aircraft types, ensuring the ...

PDS Tech Commercial

Aircraft Painter

Savannah, GA · On-site

$28.75/hr

Aircraft painting experience in the aerospace industry. * Experience working in an FAA-regulated manufacturing or maintenance environment. Why Join PDS Tech Commercial? * Work with a respected leader ...

Thrush Aircraft

Aircraft Painter

Albany, GA · On-site

$22.25 - $28.25/hr

Aircraft Painter Job Summary An aircraft painter prepares exterior and interior surfaces for a ... Broad knowledge of painting applications in the aerospace and/or automotive industries * Ability to ...

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All JobsAircraft Painting Jobs

Aircraft Painting information

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$13

$26

$37

How much do aircraft painting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft painting in the United States is $26.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aircraft Painting vs Aircraft Maintenance?

AspectAircraft PaintingAircraft Maintenance
CredentialsTypically requires specialized painting certifications and safety trainingRequires FAA certifications, mechanic licenses, and various technical certifications
Work EnvironmentPaint booths, hangars, and aircraft exteriorsHangars, workshops, and on-site at airports
Industry UsagePrimarily in aircraft refurbishing, new aircraft finishing, and repaintingRoutine inspections, repairs, and system overhauls

Aircraft Painting focuses on applying paint and coatings to aircraft surfaces, requiring specialized painting skills and certifications. Aircraft Maintenance involves inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft systems, requiring broader technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry but differ in scope, skills, and work environment.

What is aircraft painting?

Aircraft painting is the process of applying specialized coatings and paint to the exterior and sometimes interior of aircraft. This job involves preparing surfaces, applying primer and paint, and ensuring a high-quality, durable finish that meets strict aviation standards. Aircraft painting not only enhances the appearance of the plane but also protects it from corrosion and environmental damage. Painters must follow safety guidelines and often work in controlled environments such as hangars or paint booths.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Painter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Painter, you need expertise in surface preparation, paint application techniques, and knowledge of aviation industry standards, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with specialized tools such as spray guns, sanders, respirators, and compliance with safety regulations or certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that set exceptional Aircraft Painters apart. These skills and qualifications ensure that paint jobs meet strict safety, quality, and aesthetic standards essential for aircraft performance and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by aircraft painters, and how can they be managed on the job?

Aircraft painters often work under tight deadlines and must ensure that every surface is meticulously prepared to achieve high-quality finishes that meet strict aviation standards. The role also involves working with hazardous materials and in confined or elevated spaces, requiring adherence to safety protocols and use of protective gear. Effective communication with maintenance teams and attention to detail are essential to manage these challenges and deliver consistent, compliant results.
More about Aircraft Painting jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Painting jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Painting job openings:
What states have the most Aircraft Painting jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Painting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Painting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Painting jobs are:
Aircraft Painting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Painting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,455 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Aircraft Painter

Van's Aircraft, Inc.

Aurora, OR • On-site

$25.25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Aircraft PainterSummary:

Join our team at Van's Aircraft as an Aircraft Painter and contribute to the highest standards of quality and safety in the aviation industry. We are looking for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional results. If you’re skilled in aircraft preparation, painting, and detailing, this is your opportunity to make an impact and grow with our organization.

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept:

As an Aircraft Painter, you will play a critical role in ensuring the proper preparation, painting, and detailing of aircraft. Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Priming and painting aircraft surfaces using singlestage and twostage systems.
  • Spraying highbuild primer on fiberglass surfaces in preparation for painting.
  • Sanding or scuffing aircraft surfaces in preparation for priming.
  • Prepping aircraft surfaces for prime and paint (wipe, blow, tack).
  • Masking aircraft surfaces that are not to be painted using tape, paper, and plastic.
  • Locating, applying, and painting decals as specified by drawings.
  • Locating and applying permanent vinyl decals to aircraft surfaces.
  • Performing touchups as required to ensure the highest quality of the product.
  • Cleaning pots and guns after each application.
  • Reading reference sheets that show paint schemes and colors.
  • Maintaining paint levels and ordering paint for each aircraft paint job.
  • Maintaining a clean and organized work area.
  • Periodically cleaning the paint booth and replacing booth filters to eliminate dust and debris.
  • Performing other duties as assigned will also be part of your role.
    • What You’ll Bring to the Team:

    We’re looking for someone with the following qualifications and skills:

  • Five years of prior experience in aircraft or automotive painting.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
  • Proficiency in using tools and equipment associated with the aircraft painting process.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering documentation.
  • Certification to pass a Pulmonary Function Test and obtain respirator certification.
  • Physical ability to climb ladders and stairs, work in small restricted areas
  • Physical ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach overhead frequently, lifting up to 40lbs
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods and perform repetitive motions (spraying, sanding, masking).
  • Ability to distinguish colors, detect surface defects, and ensure finish quality.
  • Computer literacy to effectively use material tracking and other systems.
  • Working knowledge of paint processes and products, including lacquers, enamels, epoxies, urethanes, and acrylics.
  • A strong commitment to safety and quality.
    • Work Environment:

    You will work in a dynamic aviation environment at Van's Aircraft, involving hangars and restricted spaces. The role requires physical activity, attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to wear and be fitted for a respirator to ensure a safe and efficient operation.

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