Paint Prepper

Schweitzer; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing bonus

RRSP matching

Relocation allowance

Training & development

Pay-for-performance

Job summary

Alpine Aerotech in Kelowna is seeking a Paint Prepper to prepare aircraft components for painting and refinishing. You will work with a skilled paint team to clean, mask, media blast, and chemically strip parts in accordance with drawings, work instructions, and safety standards.

You will inspect parts, support paint shop operations, and maintain a clean, safe workspace while contributing to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in paint preparation or related aerospace finishing is an asset.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to read instructions and follow drawings.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in confined spaces.
• Strong attention to detail and safety.

Responsibilities

• Prepare aircraft components for painting by cleaning, degreasing, masking, and stripping using approved methods.
• Mask components according to engineering drawings and SOPs.
• Inspect parts before, during, and after preparation for quality and defects.
• Support paint shop operations and ensure timely delivery of prepared parts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; operate tools and equipment responsibly.
• Collaborate with painters, technicians, inspectors, and leadership to meet schedules.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives for safety and quality.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Read instructions

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Strong communication

Education

Grade 12 diploma or equivalent

Job description

At Alpine Aerotech, our reputation is built on our people. In the last 35 years, we've grown into one of the world's leading helicopter maintenance, repair, overhaul, and manufacturing organizations—trusted across the globe. Today, we are an accredited Airbus and Leonardo Service Center and one of the largest Bell Service Centers worldwide. The pride, expertise, and dedication of our employees fuel our growth and guide everything we do. We're personable, reliable, experienced, and innovative—holding ourselves accountable to the values that matter most in aviation: Integrity. Quality. Safety. Accountability. We continue to expand our capabilities, invest in our people, and evolve how we work. If you're ready to work alongside skilled professionals who care about quality—and each other—and want a place where your work is respected, your skills are valued, and your career can grow, join our team.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Paint Supervisor, the Paint Prepper is responsible for preparing aircraft components for painting and refinishing. Working as part of a skilled paint team, this position cleans, masks, media blasts, chemically strips, and prepares aircraft parts in accordance with approved drawings, work instructions, regulatory requirements, and Alpine Aerotech's quality standards.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Prepare aircraft components for painting by cleaning, degreasing, masking, media blasting, and chemical stripping using approved methods and procedures
• Remove paint, coatings, corrosion, dirt, grease, and other contaminants to ensure components are properly prepared for refinishing
• Mask aircraft components in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and standard operating procedures
• Inspect parts before, during, and after preparation to verify quality standards and identify defects or concerns prior to painting
• Support paint shop operations by ensuring components are accurately prepared and delivered on schedule
• Assist with general shop activities, including cleaning and organizing work areas, maintaining equipment, and restocking materials and supplies
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following company procedures, safe work practices, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements
• Collaborate with painters, technicians, inspectors, and leadership to meet production schedules while maintaining high standards for quality and professionalism
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, efficiency, and paint shop performance
• Continuously develop technical knowledge and surface preparation skills while supporting improvements to equipment, processes, and shop operations
• Fulfill additional duties as required
• Uphold an unwavering standard of excellence that impeccably represents the Alpine Aerotech brand

What You'll Bring to Our Team

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience in paint preparation, industrial painting, media blasting, automotive refinishing, manufacturing, aerospace, or a related industry is considered an asset
• Valid Driver's Licence
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to safely operate tools, equipment, and shop machinery
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, technical documentation, drawings, and standard operating procedures
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 50 lbs, climbing ladders, standing for extended periods, and working in confined or awkward spaces when required
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality workmanship
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment
• Professionalism, accountability, and sound judgment
• Continuous improvement mindset with a commitment to ongoing learning and technical excellence

Why You'll Choose Alpine Aerotech

Flexibility & Work-Life Balance

Choose a schedule that works for you. Our alternative shifts offer greater flexibility while supporting your well-being and work-life balance. Working here gives you the option to choose between a 9/80 Flex schedule or a standard Monday-Friday schedule.

Financial & Career Rewards

• $2,500 signing bonus
• Competitive hourly wage starting at $23.00 per hour, with opportunities for growth based on experience, skills, and performance
• RRSP matching up to 5%
• Paid relocation allowance
• Paid training and professional development
• Pay-for-performance philosophy that recognizes your excellence

Health & Well-Being

• Comprehensive group benefits plan
• Health Spending Account
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
• Sick leave incentive: 10 days per year—any unused time is paid out annually

Stability & Growth

• Work for a globally respected rotorcraft MRO facility
• Opportunities to develop technical expertise and long-term career growth within aerospace manufacturing
• Be part of a team known for quality, safety, and professionalism
• Build your career alongside experienced aviation professionals who are committed to mentoring and continuous improvement

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Alpine Aerotech is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and barrier-free workplace where diverse perspectives and experiences are valued and employees can reach their full potential. We welcome applications from Indigenous Peoples, members of racialized groups, visible minorities, people with disabilities, and individuals of diverse gender identities and expressions. Candidates requiring accommodations during the application process are encouraged to contact our Human Resources team. We thank all applicants for their interest in Alpine Aerotech; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Are you ready to take your aviation aspirations to new heights? Alpine Aerotech is not just a company; it’s your gateway to an exhilarating and fulfilling career. As a comprehensive, full-service rotorcraft support center, Alpine Aerotech stands as a global expert in the aviation industry. Our journey, marked by dedication and growth, reflects our commitment to excellence. From a humble start with four employees in 1990, we have grown to a team of 150 strong. With over 64,000 square feet across our Kelowna facilities and the acquisition of a 30,000 square foot Abbotsford facility in 2013, our reach continues to expand. Notably, we are recognized as one of the largest and most reputable Bell and Airbus Customer Service Facilities (CSF) worldwide and as a service center for Leonardo Helicopters. We take pride in delivering reliable and personalized service to our expanding international customer base. With a rich legacy of over 30 years, we invite you to join us and be part of a team that thrives on innovation, safety, and pushing the boundaries of aviation.