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Airplane Painter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EXCLUSIVE JETS LLC

Lead Paint Technician

Kinston, NC

$40K - $51K/yr

Job Summary The Lead Paint Technician position requires advanced knowledge of the paint process ... Exposure to loud noises including but not limited to airplane machinery and jet engines. * Mostly ...

EXCLUSIVE JETS LLC

Lead Paint Technician

Kinston, NC · On-site

$40K - $51K/yr

Job Summary The Lead Paint Technician position requires advanced knowledge of the paint process ... Exposure to loud noises including but not limited to airplane machinery and jet engines. * Mostly ...

STS Technical Services

A&P Mechanics

Oscoda, MI · On-site

$26.75 - $35/hr

An A&P mechanic inspects, services and repairs airplanes to ensure they're operating correctly and ... A mechanic working on the exterior of a plane may be fixing a broken wing, repairing paint or ...

Cash Now Auto

Automotive Detailer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Paint correction, wet sanding, and polishing * Skilled use of wool buff and high-speed buffer ... Experience in detailing (automotive, boats, or airplanes) * Strong knowledge of buffing, polishing ...

Cash Now Auto

Automotive Detailer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Paint correction, wet sanding, and polishing * Skilled use of wool buff and high-speed buffer ... Experience in detailing (automotive, boats, or airplanes) * Strong knowledge of buffing, polishing ...

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Airplane Painter information

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$37

How much do airplane painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for airplane painter 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 does an airplane painter do?

An airplane painter is responsible for preparing and applying paint to aircraft surfaces, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and protection from environmental factors. Their job includes sanding, masking, priming, and painting planes according to strict safety and quality standards. Airplane painters often work in teams and follow detailed instructions or design specifications provided by airlines or manufacturers. In addition to painting, they may also be involved in touch-ups, repairs, and the application of decals or other markings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airplane painter?

To thrive as an Airplane Painter, you typically need experience with surface preparation, masking, and painting techniques, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with spray guns, paint booths, and specialized aviation coatings—plus knowledge of safety protocols and sometimes FAA certifications—is important. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work well in teams help ensure high-quality, precise results. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining aircraft appearance, safety standards, and regulatory compliance in the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by airplane painters, and how can they be managed effectively?

Airplane painters often encounter challenges such as working with large surfaces, adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations, and ensuring a flawless finish under tight deadlines. Managing these challenges involves careful surface preparation, using specialized equipment like spray guns in controlled environments, and staying updated on the latest safety guidelines. Teamwork is also crucial, as painters frequently collaborate with technicians and engineers to coordinate schedules and maintain quality standards.

What is the difference between Airplane Painter vs Aircraft Painter?

AspectAirplane PainterAircraft Painter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized painting certificationsHigh school diploma, specialized painting certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing plants, maintenance facilitiesAircraft manufacturing plants, maintenance facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in commercial and private aviation sectorsPrimarily in aerospace manufacturing and repair
Job FocusPainting commercial airplanes and private jetsPainting various aircraft types, including military and commercial

Both Airplane Painters and Aircraft Painters require similar certifications and work in comparable environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Airplane Painters typically work on commercial and private aircraft, while Aircraft Painters may handle a broader range of aircraft types, including military and specialized planes. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path within the aviation industry.

How do you become an airplane painter?

To become an airplane painter, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in aircraft painting and finishing. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in spray painting, knowledge of safety protocols, and familiarity with aviation standards; certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

How much do you get paid to paint airplanes?

Airplane painters typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled painters with certifications and experience in spray painting and surface preparation may earn higher wages, especially in aerospace manufacturing or maintenance environments.

How to get into airplane painting?

To become an airplane painter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in aircraft painting and finishing. Skills in surface preparation, masking, and the use of spray equipment are essential, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.
More about Airplane Painter jobs

What job categories do people searching Airplane Painter jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Airplane Painter jobs are:

Infographic showing various Airplane Painter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,455 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Experienced Line Service Technician

Global Asset Protection Inc

Orlando, FL • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement

Job description
Qualifications:
Minimum of one (1) year of aircraft line experience. Maintenance and general repair experience is required. Must be 21 years old or older and hold a valid Florida driver’s license and be capable of operating a facility vehicle and maintaining a safe driving record. For purposes of effective communication must be able to see, hear, speak, read, and write English. Maintain ability to stretch, push, pull kneel, reach, twist, lift unassisted at least 50 lbs. and walk or stand up to eight hours.
This is a full-time position.
There will be a complete background check and an employment drug screen run on potential candidates.
Job Duties
Individuals that work in this department perform a variety of duties needed to maintain the facility and aircraft.
Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Airplane cleaning, airplane maintenance, airplane stocking
  • Hangar upkeep
  • Building maintenance, pressure washing, painting, trash removal, light carpentry work, and mechanical repairs
  • Vehicle cleaning
  • Custodial maintenance, floor maintenance, trash pickup, and equipment cleaning
  • Running errands
Other:
  • Have and maintain a valid driver’s license and driving record free of chargeable accidents or other safety violations.
  • Demonstrate adequate mechanical aptitude.
  • Proficient in the proper use of power and hand tools.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills, ability to comprehend and follow direction, perform basic math, good time management, and team member skills.
  • Must be a team player with enthusiasm, initiative, and pride in work well done; self-starter dedicated to continual quality improvement.
Hours per week:
40
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed
Application Question(s):
  • Able to pass a background check?
License/Certification:
  • Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person