Semi Skilled/Trainee Painter Prepper

Matchtech; Hedge End; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Matchtech is seeking a Semi-Skilled Painter to support aerospace component manufacture in Southampton. You will work from technical drawings, perform masking, surface prep, sanding, filler application, primer painting and resin application on metallic and composite parts.

Join a multi-skilled team with responsibility for quality, safety and continuous improvement, contributing to efficient production and adherence to specifications in a controlled environment.

Qualifications

• Reading technical drawings and specifications.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Solid understanding of health and safety practices.
• Positive, proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Apply primer paint systems to metallic and composite components.
• Prepare surfaces through masking, sanding, abrading, and filler application.
• Mix and apply paints, fillers and resins per specifications.
• Follow COSHH requirements and paint schedules.
• Operate cure booths and monitor curing cycles.
• Conduct paint quality inspections and timekeeping.

Skills

Read technical drawings

Manual dexterity

Attention to detail

Health and safety

Teamwork

Timekeeping

Education

NVQ Level 2

Job description

Semi-Skilled Painter - Southampton

Shift Pattern:

Earlies: Monday to Thursday, 06:00-14:15; Friday, 06:00-12:00

Pay Rates

Rate Type PAYE Umbrella

Earlies 15 14

Overtime (37+ hrs & Saturdays) 23 70

Sundays & Bank Holidays 30 27

Lates (%) 18 36

Role Overview

We are looking for a Semi-Skilled Painter to support the manufacture of high-quality aerospace components based in Hamble, Southampton. Working from technical drawings and specifications, you will carry out masking, surface preparation, sanding, filler application, primer painting, resin application, and finishing activities on metallic and composite aircraft parts. You'll work as part of a multi-skilled team with minimal supervision, taking responsibility for quality, accuracy, safety, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply primer paint systems to metallic and composite components.
• Prepare surfaces through masking, sanding, abrading, and filler application.
• Mix and apply paints, fillers, and resins in line with specifications and COSHH requirements.
• Apply edge seal resins and stencil aircraft markings from technical drawings.
• Operate cure booths and monitor curing cycles.
• Carry out paint quality inspections, including tape and isoscope testing.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping, quality, and safety.
• Ensure accurate timekeeping and job bookings.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and cross-skilling activities.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across safety, quality, cost, and delivery.

Candidate Requirements

Essential

• Good literacy and numeracy skills with the ability to read technical documentation.
• Good manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Strong awareness of health and safety practices.
• Positive, proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible, willing to learn, and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Excellent timekeeping and communication skills.
• Basic IT skills.
• Understanding of Lean/5S principles.

Desirable

• Previous painting experience in aerospace or manufacturing.
• Apprenticeship, NVQ Level 2, or equivalent trade qualification (advantageous but not essential).
• Full training will be provided.

Additional Information

Candidates must have the unrestricted right to live and work in the UK, comply with ITAR requirements, and be able to obtain Baseline Security Clearance.