What Does an Aircraft Painter Do?
Aircraft painters are responsible for preparing and applying paint, finishes, and protective coatings to aircraft surfaces. Their work involves more than aesthetics—it plays a critical role in protecting the aircraft from corrosion and weather elements while also adhering to strict industry standards. Using specialized tools and paint systems, they transform bare metal into finished aircraft that meet brand, regulatory, and safety requirements.
These professionals follow detailed specifications to strip old finishes, sand surfaces, mask off components, mix coatings, and apply paint using techniques such as HVLP spraying. Aircraft painters work in aircraft maintenance hangars, OEM manufacturing environments, or refurbishment facilities. They ensure their work complies with FAA, OSHA, and EPA safety regulations while contributing to the operational readiness and professional appearance of aircraft.
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Aircraft Painter Core Responsibilities
- Prepare aircraft surfaces by cleaning, stripping, sanding, and masking
- Mix primers, sealants, and topcoats to manufacturer specifications
- Apply paint and coatings using HVLP spray guns and other equipment
- Inspect painted surfaces for quality, adhesion, and finish defects
- Maintain compliance with FAA and environmental regulations
- Follow blueprints and paint schematics for branding accuracy
- Document work performed and maintain paint usage records
- Dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols
- Coordinate with maintenance teams to schedule and plan paint projects
- Perform touch-ups and finish detailing as needed
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in surface prep, sanding, and masking techniques
- Knowledge of paint mixing ratios and application methods
- Experience using HVLP spray equipment and related tools
- Understanding of polyurethane, epoxy, and corrosion-resistant coatings
- Ability to read and interpret paint diagrams and technical instructions
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and color precision
- Time management and adherence to tight schedules
- Manual dexterity and physical stamina
- Ability to work as part of a team in fast-paced environments
- High commitment to safety and cleanliness
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Technical training in industrial painting or refinishing preferred
Certifications
- OSHA 10 or 30 certification preferred
- Hazardous materials handling certification (if required by facility)
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience painting aircraft or other large equipment
- Familiarity with aircraft-specific coatings and finishes
- Experience working in FAA Part 145 or OEM environments
- Certification in automotive or industrial painting (e.g., ASE, NACE)
National Average Salary
Aircraft painter salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Aircraft Painter is:
$56,155
Sample Job Description Templates for Aircraft Painters
Entry-Level Aircraft Painter
Position Overview
Entry-level aircraft painters assist with the surface preparation and basic painting of aircraft components under the supervision of experienced painters. They are responsible for masking, sanding, and mixing materials while learning the standards of aviation coatings.
Aircraft Painter Responsibilities
- Prepare surfaces by sanding, stripping, and cleaning
- Mask parts and sections according to design specs
- Mix primers and paints under supervision
- Assist in applying coatings using basic spray equipment
- Support maintenance of paint tools and booths
Aircraft Painter Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic understanding of painting tools and equipment
- Familiarity with sanding, taping, and masking methods
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn
- Detail-oriented
- Ability to follow safety procedures
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with industrial or automotive painting
- Enrollment in technical or trade programs
Mid-Level Aircraft Painter
Position Overview
Mid-level aircraft painters perform independent work on aircraft exteriors and interiors, including sanding, priming, masking, and painting. They ensure coatings meet company standards and regulatory compliance.
Aircraft Painter Responsibilities
- Perform surface prep, including chemical cleaning and sanding
- Mix and apply primers and topcoats per technical instructions
- Use HVLP spray guns and maintain consistent paint quality
- Inspect work for flaws, defects, or irregularities
- Maintain a clean and safe paint environment
Aircraft Painter Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with HVLP spray equipment
- Ability to read paint schematics and mix ratios
- Experience with polyurethane and epoxy paints
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Team collaboration
- Time management
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- OSHA 10 or safety training preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in aircraft or industrial painting
Senior Aircraft Painter
Position Overview
Senior aircraft painters lead major painting tasks, mentor junior staff, and ensure quality control across painting operations. They specialize in applying high-performance finishes and overseeing critical paint projects.
Aircraft Painter Responsibilities
- Lead complex painting projects on full aircraft and components
- Train and supervise junior painters
- Maintain paint logs and compliance documentation
- Inspect final finishes for consistency and quality
- Coordinate paint plans with maintenance or engineering teams
Aircraft Painter Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of advanced paint systems and techniques
- Expert with defect correction and finish detailing
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements for aviation coatings
Soft skills
- Leadership and training ability
- Strong judgment and quality assurance mindset
- Effective communication
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- FAA or OSHA certifications preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in aviation painting
- Familiarity with MRO or OEM paint operations
Lead Painter
Position Overview
The lead painter oversees all painting operations, managing schedules, quality control, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. This role acts as the primary liaison between paint technicians and senior maintenance staff.
Aircraft Painter Responsibilities
- Supervise paint shop teams and workflows
- Plan and coordinate painting schedules with production leads
- Conduct quality inspections and manage corrective actions
- Ensure all safety, environmental, and FAA regulations are followed
- Maintain inventory of materials and tools
Aircraft Painter Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in paint project planning and supervision
- Deep understanding of aviation paint systems
- Familiarity with compliance documentation and audits
Soft skills
- Team leadership and motivation
- Organizational and scheduling skills
- Communication with cross-functional departments
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- OSHA 30 or safety supervisor credentials preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in aircraft painting
- Experience supervising a paint shop or coating facility