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Aviation Paint Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Paint Shop Lead

Marana, AZ · On-site

$20.25 - $24.25/hr

Ascent Aviation Services continues to grow and are continually looking for motivated and career minded aviation professionals who will support our vision and goals. We are currently seeking a Paint ...

Aircraft Painter

Marana, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $27.25/hr

Ascent Aviation Services is one of the largest aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul, storage and ... Mixes and thins paint or other coatings to specified color and consistency according to standard ...

Aircraft Painter

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$24 - $30.50/hr

Apply complex paint systems, including metallic, high-gloss, specialty, and multi-coat finishes to ... Familiarity with aviation painting standards and regulations. * Demonstrated experience in training ...

... the aviation and aerospace industry. In keeping with this goal, each benefit program has been ... The Aircraft Paint Supervisor will oversee the day-to-day production activities for complete ...

Aircraft Painter 7

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

As an Aircraft Painter, you will contribute to the preparation, application, and finishing of ... Customer service and aviation work experience. Basic PC skills. Basic knowledge pulling maintenance ...

Aircraft Painter 8

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

As an Aircraft Painter, you will contribute to the preparation, application, and finishing of ... Customer service and aviation work experience. Basic PC skills. Basic knowledge pulling maintenance ...

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Aviation Paint information

See Arizona salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do aviation paint jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation paint in Arizona is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aviation paint technician?

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 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.

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 cities in Arizona are hiring for Aviation Paint jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Aviation Paint job openings:

Infographic showing various Aviation Paint job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,059 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Paint Shop Lead

Ascent Aviation Services

Marana, AZ • On-site

$20.25 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs painting and surface preparation of aircraft and equipment according to technical data and safety regulations.

  • Coordinates with supervisors and production control to communicate work progress and ensure quality standards are met.

  • Operates equipment and sets up work areas for painting, including masking surfaces, mixing paints, and applying coatings.


Ascent Aviation Services rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 67 rated aviation services


Job description

Who we are and where we are going: 

Ascent Aviation Services is one of the largest aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul, storage and reclamation operations in the world. Our strength comes from our talented and professional employees who excel through teamwork and enthusiasm. Ascent Aviation Services continues to grow and are continually looking for motivated and career minded aviation professionals who will support our vision and goals.

We are currently seeking a Paint Shop Lead. The Paint Shop Lead will perform functions assigned in the painting and stripping process of aircraft and equipment. 

As a 24/7 operation, we have openings across all shifts, including days, evenings, weekends, and 12-hour schedules. Candidates must be flexible and willing to work any shift based on operational needs. Preference is given to those available between 2:30 PM and 7:00 AM, including overnights and weekends. Some schedules may qualify for shift differential. Overtime—both scheduled and unscheduled, including holidays—may also be required.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Ensures that all work performed complies with applicable technical data, FAA regulations and Ascent Aviation policies and procedures. 
  • Works closely with immediate supervisor as well as Production Control Booth Coordinator to keep them informed on actual work progress in areas of responsibility. 
  • Performs and assigned maintenance work including painting surfaces of aircraft and applying knowledge of surface preparation and painting techniques. 
  • Cleans, sands, and applies chemical solutions to prepare and condition surfaces prior to painting. 
  • Mixes and thins paint or other coating to specified color and consistency according to standard formulas or color charts, using spatula or mixing equipment and viscometer. 
  • Masks and covers surfaces not to be painted. 
  • Sprays specified amount of thickness of primer, protective, decorative, or finish coatings, such as paint, lacquer, sealer, or enamel onto prepared surfaces using spray equipment. 
  • Lays out and paints insignias, symbols, designs, or other markings on aircraft according to blueprints or specifications, using stencils patterns, measuring instruments, brushes, or spray equipment. 
  • Regulates controls on equipment to cure and dry paint or other coatings. 
  • Set up portable ventilators, exhaust units, ladders, and scaffolding prior painting. 
  • Operates lifting and moving devices to move materials and equipment and access areas to be painted. 
  • Make recommendations to management to improve productivity, increase efficiency, or cut costs. 
  • Performs orientation and on the job training for employees. Ensures that training is documented in employee training records. 
  • Enforces company policies and safety regulations and the proper use of equipment and ensures that quality standards are met. 
  • Tracks time spent on each work order and ensured the time is logged on time card correctly. 
  • Coordinates activities of workers including assigning work duties for maximum utilization of manpower and analyzing and resolving work problems. 
  • Estimates non-routine Job Cards during checks.

YOU WILL GET MORE THAN JUST COMPENSATION:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • 401k with Company Match
  • PTO - Eligible for 4 Weeks in your First Year, in Addition to 7 Paid Company Holidays
  • Company-Provided Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Development and Career Growth Opportunities

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:  

  • 3-5 years of painting experience
  • Capable of working independently or under supervision.  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • A&P License or Repairman’s certificate is preferred.
  • Excellent attention to detail and mathematical proficiency 
  • Ability to read, write and comprehend English with the capability to follow written instructions

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, kneeling, balancing, and reaching above shoulder level.
  • Occasional crawling, climbing, lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
  • Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity.
  • Corrected vision and hearing to normal range.

EQUIPMENT OPERATED: 

  • Protective equipment required: Goggles, safety glasses, face shields, ear protection, apron, gloves, safety harness, breathing equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

  • The work location will include aircraft Maintenance hangars, the flightline, and Avionics shop.
  • Potential hazards include exposure to high intensity noise levels, extreme changes in temperature, electrical charges and radar waves, materials identified on the Safety Data Sheets, and working around moving machinery.

OTHER DUTIES: 

  • May be required to work at both Marana, AZ and Tucson, AZ locations as business needs dictate. 
  • Additional duties may be assigned at the discretion of department management. 

SMS REQUIREMENTS:

  • Employees are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with company policies and government regulations. These rules are written in the interest of preserving the lives and the resources entrusted to each employee, and when the rules are violated, the risk of a mishap is usually increased.
  • Employees shall participate in safety education programs and train to recognize hazards on the job and how to report them promptly. As a condition of employment, each member of Ascent Aviation agrees to report errors, incidents, and accidents honestly.
  • An employee who observes an unsafe action or condition should bring it to the attention of supervisors and managers. Certain conditions may allow the employee to easily correct or condition a situation. 

Duties not listed within the position description may be required of the employee at the discretion of the department management. Job functions may vary due to irregular working conditions or multiple shift positions. 

Ascent Aviation Services is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment. We provide equal employment opportunities and are committed to making reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require any accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know. EEO/AA/F/M/VET/DIS


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