Painters Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

**Company:** Tri-County Steel LLC (TCS) **Location:** On-site at Bedford, IN **Employment Type:** Full-time **Salary:** Commensurate with experience. SCA Wage Determination applies. **Clearance Level Required:** Secret. US Citizenship required. About Us: Tri-County Steel LLC (TCS) is a service-disabled veteran-owned small business located in Bedford, Indiana. We have been a trusted defense contractor supporting our industry and government partners for over 16 years, offering a wide variety of logistics, programmatic, and engineering support services. We pride ourselves on a strong commitment to our clients and a focus on quality and reliability in everything we do. Additionally, we are dedicated to the growth and development of our employees, providing opportunities for advancement and professional growth. Job Summary:
TCS is seeking an experienced Painter to support military coating operations at Bedford, IN. The successful candidate will apply a variety of coating systems - including primers, topcoats, and specialty military finishes - with demonstrated proficiency and minimal supervision. This is not a learn-on-the-job role; we are looking for an experienced professional who can contribute immediately and operate effectively within a safety-sensitive, compliance-driven environment. A Secret clearance is required for this position.
Essential Functions: * Apply primers, topcoats, and specialty military coatings in accordance with project specifications, applicable standards, and quality control requirements. * Perform surface preparation including cleaning, sanding, masking, and priming prior to coating application. * Mix and prepare coatings per manufacturer specifications and project requirements. * Set up, operate, adjust, and perform routine maintenance on paint room equipment including HVLP sprayers, mixers, and ventilation systems. * Read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions to ensure accurate execution. * Use precision measuring equipment (e.g., calipers, mil thickness gauges) to verify coating quality and compliance. * Inspect finished surfaces for quality assurance; identify and troubleshoot application issues and perform rework as necessary. * Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work area at all times. * Assist and mentor junior-level staff, providing hands-on guidance to ensure adherence to quality and safety standards. * Support ordnance-related activities in accordance with explosive safety policies and site-specific procedures. * Assist in basic testing, data collection, and maintenance of documentation as required. Experience and Skills: * Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience in industrial, automotive, or military-grade painting applications; real-world body shop or depot-level experience strongly preferred. * Demonstrated proficiency with HVLP and other paint spraying systems in a booth environment. * Proven ability to mix and apply coatings in accordance with manufacturer specifications and rework coating system standards. * Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and written work instructions. * Familiarity with precision measuring equipment, including calipers and mil thickness gauges. * Strong mechanical aptitude with experience maintaining paint room equipment. * High attention to detail; neat, precise execution with consistent, verifiable results. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a high-safety, compliance-driven environment. * Experience assisting or mentoring junior staff in a production or technical environment Desired Qualifications: * Industry-recognized certification in industrial coatings, painting systems, or similar (not required, but preferred). * Prior experience in ordnance, depot, or military support environments. * Familiarity with CARC coatings and military coating system specifications. Physical Requirements: * Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and participate in a random drug testing program. * Must be able to wear full PPE including respirators. * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in paint booth environments for extended periods. Travel: None expected. Benefits: * Comprehensive health benefits, including life, health, dental, vision, short-term disability (STD), and long-term disability (LTD) coverage for eligible employees and family members. * 401(K) Plan with company match. * 12 paid holidays. * Paid time off (PTO). * Competitive salaries. Application Process: We invite resumes from all interested parties.