Paint Technician

About the Role

West Star Aviation is seeking a Paint Technician for a Weekend Shift in Grand Junction, CO. This role offers a creative opportunity to transform aircraft exteriors, from standard designs to detailed artwork. The schedule is Friday-Sunday, 6am-6:30pm, with a 3-day workweek and an 11.11% shift differential.

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.
• 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.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Vo-tech school in paint or on-the-job experience is preferred but not required.
• A valid driver's license approved for airline travel and/or a valid passport is ideal.
• Reliable transportation to work.
• Ability to attend work every day as scheduled, including overtime and weekend assignments.
• Notify supervisor in advance if unable to work.
• Perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.
• Follow all company and safety rules.
• Maintain customer-oriented work habits.

Experience Levels

• Tech I: 0-2 years of paint experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine or related field. Requires close supervision.
• Tech II: 2-4 years of paint experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine or related field. Requires general supervision.
• Tech III: 4-6 years of experience in aviation, auto, RV, Marine or related field. Requires limited supervision and can act as a trainer.
• Master Tech: 6+ years’ experience in aviation interiors. Subject matter expert.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry 50 lbs.
• Routine walking, bending, squatting, or sitting.
• Work standing on a ladder or scaffold.
• Pass pulmonary physical.
• Pass respiratory fit test (requires wearing protective gear).

Mental Requirements

• Understanding and implementation of regulations and guidelines including OSHA, hazmat, etc.
• Work logically with mechanical processes.
• Work with others professionally.
• Good communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Majority of work in a heated hangar or shop area.
• May work on aircraft on the ramp.
• Varied positions in and around aircraft.

Equipment Used

• Air equipment, polisher, sander.
• Stripper pump, electrostatic paint guns, pressure posts, laser level.
• Tugs, power carts, and other engine-powered equipment.

Qualifications

• Team player.
• Self-motivated.
• Flexible.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with deadlines and time constraints.
• Ability to work under supervision.