Paint Technician

About the Role

As an Aircraft Paint Technician at West Star Aviation, you will have the opportunity to transform ordinary aircraft into extraordinary pieces of art, handling everything from standard stripes and colors to highly detailed artwork. This position is for the weekend shift.

• Shift Schedule: Friday - Sunday, 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM
• Shift Incentive: 11.11% shift differential and a 3-day workweek.

Key Responsibilities

• Masking and taping aircraft parts to prevent overspray.
• Sanding primer.
• Blowing and cleaning aircraft with thinner.
• Washing the paint booth.
• Applying all layers of paint, including the top coat.
• Laying out stripe and design schemes.
• Preparing and scuffing paint for trim application.
• Re-masking aircraft and performing detail work.
• Inspecting completed paint jobs.
• Paint mixing and paint matching.
• Communicating effectively in English (speaking, writing, reading).
• Performing other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred Education: Vo-tech school in paint or on-the-job experience.
• License/Passport: A valid driver’s license approved for airline travel and/or a valid passport is ideal.
• Physical Requirements:
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Routine walking, bending, squatting, or sitting.
• Work standing on ladders or scaffolds.
• Pass pulmonary physical.
• Pass respiratory fit test for protective gear.
• Mental Requirements:
• Understanding and implementation of regulations and guidelines (e.g., OSHA, hazmat).
• Logically working with mechanical processes.
• Professional interaction with others.
• Good communication skills.
• Initiative: Self-motivated, flexible, and adaptable to a fast-paced environment with deadlines and time constraints.
• Responsibility:
• Attend work daily as scheduled, including overtime and weekend assignments.
• Notify supervisor in advance if unable to work.
• Maintain reliable transportation.
• Perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.
• Follow all company and safety rules.
• Maintain customer-oriented work habits.
• Equipment Used:
• Air equipment
• Polisher and sander
• Stripper pump
• Electrostatic paint guns
• Pressure posts
• Laser level
• Tugs, power carts, and other engine-powered equipment.

Experience Levels

• Tech I: 0-2 years of paint experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine, or related fields. Requires close supervision.
• Tech II: 2-4 years of paint experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine, or related fields. Requires general supervision.
• Tech III: 4-6 years of experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine, or related fields. Requires limited supervision.
• Master Tech: 6+ years of experience in aviation interiors.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly Rate: Generally ranges between $20-$28, varying based on location, experience, and performance.
• Additional Compensation: Shift differential for alternate shifts.
• Total Compensation Package: Includes hourly pay, semi-annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) company match, and employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).

West Star Aviation Benefits

• Benefits effective day one for eligible employees.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage with HSA and FSA options.
• Life Insurance, Disability Benefits & Supplemental Benefits.
• 401(k) Plan with employee contributions and employer match.
• Paid Company Holidays & Weekly Paid Time Off Accruals.
• Flexible Work Schedules (5x8, 4x10, 3x12).
• Weekly Competitive & Industry Leading Pay.
• Bonus Opportunity based on Company and Site Performance.
• Internal Mobility & Career Advancement opportunities.