Aerospace Painter: Precision Finishes & QA Ownership

Votaw Precision Technologies, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; Full time

Job description

Description

Company Background and Summary

Votaw Precision Technologies is a trusted leader in the manufacturing of complex precision components, assemblies, and systems for the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. With a strong reputation for technical excellence, quality craftsmanship, and on-time delivery, Votaw supports some of the world’s most demanding programs through its advanced manufacturing capabilities. The company specializes in precision machining, fabrication, welding, and complex assembly operations for mission-critical applications. Votaw Precision Technologies has long been a trusted partner in building mission-critical hardware for some of the most advanced aerospace and defense programs in the world. Our precision components support the International Space Station, nearly every major launch vehicle in operation, high-performance spacecraft (including classified missions), as well as next-generation fighter aircraft, bombers, submarines, radar systems, and ground vehicles.

The Painter position is responsible for the surface preparation and application of paint finishes in accordance with engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality standards. This role interprets paint and masking requirements and utilizes appropriate techniques to ensure compliance with all applicable specifications. The Painter works closely with Quality Assurance personnel and manufacturing management to achieve production and quality objectives, while maintaining full responsibility for regulatory paint log documentation.

Essential Functions

• Maintain full ownership of paint log documentation and ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including AQMD and company standards.
• Perform painting and surface-preparation in accordance with standard operating procedures, engineering requirements, and company production schedules.
• Follow all applicable safety rules, procedures, and environmental requirements, including the proper use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
• Operate hand tools and surface preparation tools required for sanding, masking, cleaning, and paint applications.
• Use a variety of spray-painting equipment to apply coatings in accordance with blueprint, specification, and finish requirements, with conformance verified by the supervisor and Quality Control.
• Use appropriate measuring and inspection devices, such as mil thickness gauges, calipers, tape measures, squares, and other tools necessary to verify coating and dimensional requirements.
• Operate required material handling equipment to safely move parts, materials, and assemblies in support of painting operations.
• Follow oral and written instructions from the GSE/Tooling Manager and other authorized leadership as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of departmental and operational needs.
• Monitor paint and coating inventory to ensure materials required for upcoming jobs are available and in stock.
• Support other departments when paint workload is low, including but not limited to quality, bench/debur, tooling assembly, flight assembly, facilities, and shipping.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum of five years of experience as a painter, or equivalent combination of training and knowledge.
• Comprehensive understanding of aerospace paints, primers, and related coating systems.
• Ability to interpret manufacturer specifications for the mixing, handling, application, and curing of aerospace paints and primers.
• Proficient in the setup and operation of various paint application equipment and methods, including HVLP guns, pressure pots, cup guns, and airless systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex aerospace blueprints, drawings, and specifications, and develop masking templates in accordance with job requirements.
• Working knowledge of environmental controls, safety practices, and documentation requirements necessary for regulatory compliance.
• Thorough knowledge of aerospace surface preparation, paint application, touch-up, and repair procedures.
• Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out detailed oral and written instructions.
• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing 15 to 50 pounds.

Education & Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in production painting within an aerospace and defense manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision machining industries.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and ability to maintain work area cleanliness.
• Familiarity with in an AS9100 Rev D environment, including traceability, and non-conformance handling.
• Ability to read complex blueprints with GD&T and understand cycle times to validate schedules and routings is a plus.

Personal Attributes

• Able to communicate effectively with non-technical staff and with members of interdisciplinary teams.
• Flexible and adaptable in regard to learning and understanding new technologies.
• Strong written, oral, presentation, critical thinking interpersonal communication skills.
• Highly self-motivated and directed.
• Keen attention to detail.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

Work Conditions

• Ability to work onsite, including hours outside of a normal working day, to meet critical deadlines.
• Ability to walk the shop floor to obtain a visual on job status.
• Ability to operate forklift and overhead cranes in a safe manner.

Additional Requirements

• This position requires the use of information or access to hardware subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons as defined by ITAR.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Votaw Precision Technologies, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability/Vets.