Entry Level - Aircraft Parts Painter

Company: AV8

Position Description: Aircraft Parts Painter (Entry Level)

Location: Houston, TX

Department: Operations

Reports to: Finishing Lead/Production Manager

*This is an entry level role*

About AV8 MRO

AV8 MRO, a Victor Sierra Aviation company, is a leading FAA and EASA-certified aircraft component repair station specializing in the overhaul, repair, modification, testing, and exchange of aircraft landing gear systems and related components. We are committed to delivering exceptional quality, service, and operational excellence to customers around the world.

What You'll Do

The Aircraft Parts Painter is responsible for preparing, priming, painting, and finishing aircraft components and parts in accordance with engineering specifications, military/commercial standards, and safety regulations. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and adherence to strict quality and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, AS9100).

Surface Prep & Coating

• Prepare aircraft parts and surfaces for painting, including cleaning, masking, sanding, and chemical treatment (e.g., alodine, anodize prep)
• Mix paints, primers, sealants, and coatings according to specifications and manufacturer instructions
• Apply primers, topcoats, and specialty coatings using spray guns, HVLP equipment, or other approved application methods
• Inspect finished parts for defects such as runs, orange peel, bubbles, or inconsistent coverage
• Perform touch-up and rework as needed to meet quality standards
• Maintain and clean spray equipment, booths, and tools
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE (respirators, gloves, suits) and handling of hazardous materials
• Document work performed, including batch numbers, paint lots, and inspection results, per quality system requirements
• Maintain compliance with environmental regulations (EPA, OSHA) regarding VOC emissions and hazardous waste disposal
• Collaborate with quality assurance and engineering teams to resolve finish-related issues

Safety

• Wear required PPE and respiratory protection.
• Operate and maintain spray booths, plating tanks, blast cabinets, and curing ovens.
• Keep your work area clean, organized, and free of debris while following all safety procedures.

What You Need

• High school diploma or GED
• 1–3+ years of experience in industrial painting, preferably in aerospace or manufacturing
• Experience with spray gun application techniques (conventional, HVLP, electrostatic)
• Familiarity with epoxy coatings, primers, and surface treatments
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, work instructions, and paint specifications
• Knowledge of proper PPE and respiratory protection use
• Strong attention to detail and quality-focused mindset
• Experience in an AS9100 or FAA-regulated manufacturing environment preferred
• Familiarity with military specifications (MIL-SPEC) for coatings a plus
• Certification in HAZMAT handling or respirator fit testing a plus
• Prior experience with aircraft structures, sheet metal, or composite parts preferred

Physical Demands

• Stand, bend, kneel, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Lift and move parts up to 50 pounds (with assistance for heavier items).
• Wear respirators and other protective equipment for extended periods.
• Work around industrial chemicals, noise, temperature changes, and manufacturing equipment.
• Perform detailed masking and finishing tasks requiring steady hand-eye coordination.

Work Environment

You'll work in a plating and paint shop environment with exposure to industrial chemicals, coatings, solvents, and finishing equipment. Appropriate PPE is required, and all work is performed in accordance with company safety procedures and applicable regulatory requirements.

Other Requirements

• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Subject to random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with FAA/DOT regulations.

Why AV8?

At AV8, you're part of a team dedicated to precision, quality, and continuous improvement. Whether you're manufacturing components, solving problems, or sharing new ideas, your work helps keep aircraft operating safely around the world. We believe in doing the right thing, delivering exceptional quality, and working together with integrity to build products our customers can depend on.

We offer:

• A collaborative, hands-on culture where ideas take flight and your voice matters.
• Competitive pay and benefits and room to grow.
• A supportive crew of aviation pros who are passionate about what they do.

AV8 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.