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Aviation Paint Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duncan Aviation

Paint Specialist - 3297

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

The Paint Specialist silver tapes and chemically strips aircraft; masks, sands and prepares ... Aviation approved procedures, and customer specifications in a safe and clean environment using ...

Duncan Aviation

Paint Specialist - 3259

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

The Paint Specialist silver tapes and chemically strips aircraft; masks, sands and prepares ... Aviation approved procedures, and customer specifications in a safe and clean environment using ...

Duncan Aviation

Paint Specialist - 3261

Provo, UT · On-site

$16.50 - $19/hr

The Paint Specialist silver tapes and chemically strips aircraft; masks, sands and prepares ... Aviation approved procedures, and customer specifications in a safe and clean environment using ...

Duncan Aviation

Paint Specialist - 3298

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

The Paint Specialist silver tapes and chemically strips aircraft; masks, sands and prepares ... Aviation approved procedures, and customer specifications in a safe and clean environment using ...

Ag

Senior Aircraft Technician - Paint

Columbus, MS · On-site

Your boarding pass: * 6 years of experience in automotive or aviation paint. * Solid understanding of paint/prep practices. * Requires the ability to read and interpret sketches and diagrams and ...

VSE AVIATION

Paint Technician (1715)

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Paint Technician will perform alteration tasks on civil aviation articles in accordance with the current technical data provided in the manufacturers' Instructions for Continued Airworthiness ...

Airbus

Senior Aircraft Technician - Paint

Columbus, MS · On-site

Your boarding pass: * 6 years of experience in automotive or aviation paint. * Solid understanding of paint/prep practices. * Requires the ability to read and interpret sketches and diagrams and ...

Elliott Aviation

Paint Technician - 1st Shift

Milan, IL · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Elliott Aviation, a leader in aircraft solutions, has an exciting opportunity for a Paint Technician at their location in Moline, IL. Since 1936, Elliott Aviation has been a world-class provider of ...

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Aviation Paint information

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$12

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$32

How much do aviation paint jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation paint in the United States is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aviation Paint vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAviation PaintAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license, specialized training in aircraft paintingFAA A&P license, general aircraft repair and maintenance training
Work EnvironmentPaint booths, hangars, aircraft exteriors and interiorsHangars, repair stations, aircraft interiors and systems
Job FocusSurface preparation, painting, finishing aircraft surfacesInspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft systems and structures

While both roles require FAA certifications and work in aviation environments, Aviation Paint specialists focus on surface preparation and painting aircraft, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Technicians handle broader repair and maintenance tasks. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the aviation industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aviation Paint Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aviation Paint Technician, you need a strong understanding of surface preparation, paint application techniques, and safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training in aircraft maintenance or painting. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as spray guns, sanders, and respirators, as well as knowledge of specific aviation coatings and regulatory requirements, is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for delivering high-quality finishes and maintaining safety standards. These skills ensure aircraft are protected, compliant with regulations, and visually appealing, directly impacting safety and customer satisfaction.

What is an aviation paint technician?

An aviation paint technician is a skilled professional responsible for preparing, painting, and finishing aircraft exteriors and sometimes interiors. Their work ensures the aircraft's appearance meets industry and airline standards while also providing protection against corrosion and environmental damage. Aviation paint technicians use specialized equipment and materials designed for the aviation industry and must follow strict safety and quality regulations. This role often involves surface preparation, masking, priming, painting, and detailing to achieve a high-quality finish.

How much does an aircraft paint job cost?

The cost of an aircraft paint job for an aviation paint technician typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the aircraft size, complexity of the design, and paint type used. Larger or more intricate jobs require more time and materials, influencing the overall price. Certification and experience in aircraft painting can also impact wages and job opportunities in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by aviation paint technicians and how can they be addressed?

Aviation paint technicians often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict safety protocols, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring high-quality finishes that meet aviation industry standards. Working in controlled environments, they must carefully handle hazardous materials and maintain precision during surface preparation, masking, and application. Clear communication and collaboration with other maintenance and engineering teams are essential for coordinating schedules and addressing any unexpected issues. Continuous training and attention to detail help technicians stay updated on best practices and industry regulations, ensuring both safety and top-quality results.

How much do aircraft painters earn?

Aircraft painters typically earn between $35,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled painters with certifications and experience in specialized coatings can earn higher wages, especially in aerospace manufacturing or maintenance environments.

How much does painting airplanes make?

Aviation paint technicians typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled painters with specialized training and tools can earn higher salaries, especially in large or busy maintenance facilities.

What is an airplane paint job called?

An airplane paint job is commonly referred to as an aircraft livery or paint scheme. It involves applying specialized paints and coatings to the aircraft's exterior, often requiring skills in surface preparation, masking, and airbrushing. Aviation paint technicians ensure the finish is durable and meets safety and branding standards.
More about Aviation Paint jobs
What cities are hiring for Aviation Paint jobs? Cities with the most Aviation Paint job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation Paint jobs? The most popular types of Aviation Paint jobs are:
What states have the most Aviation Paint jobs? States with the most job openings for Aviation Paint jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aviation Paint jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aviation Paint jobs are:
Aviation Paint jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Paint job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,060 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

AVIATION PAINT SHOP LEAD

Airborne Maintenance and Engineering Services

Tampa, FL • On-site

$20.75 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Airborne Maintenance & Engineering Services rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 64 rated aviation services

Job description

Position Summary
This position leads and performs the coating of aircraft and aircraft parts with paint, lacquer, epoxy, resin, or other materials in accordance with company policies, procedures, specifications, and applicable regulations, while overseeing team performance and ensuring quality and safety standards are met.
Benefits
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid company holidays
  • 401(k) retirement plan with 5% company match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage
  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
Minimum Requirements and Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Airframe license preferred but not required
  • Three (3) years of finish coat experience in automotive or aircraft painting
  • Must have an understanding and working knowledge of hazardous material handling and disposal as related to the job assignment
  • Basic understanding of FAA regulations pertaining to FAR Part 145 repair station operations
  • Possess minimum required tools
  • Must be able to obtain airport SIDA badge
  • Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and overtime
  • Strong leadership, communication, and team coordination skills
Major Responsibility Areas and Duties
  • Leads a team of painters and assigns tasks based on project requirements and timelines
  • Works to verbal or written instructions and ensures team adherence to specifications
  • Oversees refinishing of aircraft, aircraft parts, and other assigned items
  • Ensures proper maintenance and operation of paint spraying equipment per manufacturer's instructions
  • Mixes materials used in the paint process and verifies correct mixtures are used by team members
  • Monitors work for quality, safety, and compliance with company and regulatory standards
  • Provides guidance, training, and support to painting team as needed
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to climb and work from ladders, work stands, and other heights
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, crouch, kneel, and walk for extended periods
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Ability to hear at conversational level with hearing aid
  • Must have correctable near and far vision

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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