Apprentice Paint Processor

About the Role

American Aero is seeking an Apprentice Paint Processor to join our Processing team. This is an entry-level opportunity for someone interested in developing a career in aerospace manufacturing and paint finishing.

The Apprentice Paint Processor will support aerospace paint and finishing operations, including part preparation, masking, cleaning, chemical processing support, material handling, and general production activities. Training will be provided in aerospace paint preparation, chemical processing support, and finishing operations.

This position works closely with experienced Paint Processors and department leadership to learn established aerospace processes while maintaining high standards for quality, safety, and production.

What You'll Do

• Prepare aerospace components for painting through cleaning, masking, plugging, and surface preparation.
• Assist with hanging, racking, unracking, and staging parts for paint processing.
• Remove masking materials and protective coverings after paint operations.
• Support painters by ensuring parts, materials, and equipment are ready for production.
• Assist with touch-up preparation and finishing activities.
• Transport components between production, chemical processing, and paint departments.
• Assist with cleaning, rinsing, drying, and preparing parts for painting and finishing.
• Support chemical preparation activities and maintain required processing documentation.
• Load and unload components from processing racks and fixtures.
• Move raw materials, work-in-process inventory, and finished components throughout the facility.
• Assist with packaging, labeling, and staging parts for internal transfer or shipment.
• Perform visual inspections for defects, contamination, damage, or other processing concerns.
• Follow customer specifications, work instructions, and company quality procedures.
• Report quality issues, equipment concerns, or process deviations to supervision.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and aerospace manufacturing standards.
• Properly wear required PPE, including respirators, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and protective clothing.
• Safely handle chemicals, paints, cleaning agents, and related materials.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment using 5S principles.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, leads, painters, and other team members.
• Participate in training and cross-training opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic math skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Willingness to learn aerospace paint and finishing processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous manufacturing, warehouse, industrial, automotive paint, or production experience.
• Experience using hand tools and basic measuring devices.
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a work shift.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including respirators and protective clothing.
• Visual acuity sufficient to inspect parts for cleanliness, coverage, and defects.

Work Environment

This position is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to:

• Paints, solvents, cleaning agents, and chemicals
• Industrial equipment
• Moderate noise levels
• Varying temperatures
• Paint booths and chemical processing equipment
• Compressed air systems
• Forklifts and material handling equipment

Required PPE must be worn while performing job duties.

Why Join American Aero?

This is a great opportunity for someone who is dependable, safety-conscious, detail-oriented, and eager to learn. You'll receive hands-on training and develop skills in aerospace paint and finishing operations while working alongside experienced team members.

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person