Entry-Level Aircraft Painter (Helicopters)

Cessna Aircraft Company; Piney Flats (TN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

80 hours PTO

120 hours Vacation time

12-13 paid holidays per year

6 weeks parental leave

On-site fitness center

Job summary

Bell Piney Flats Aircraft Paint Team is seeking an entry-level Aircraft Painter to refinish helicopters and parts at the Piney Flats, TN site. You will perform basic surface prep, assist with spray equipment setup, and follow safety and documentation procedures under supervision.

The role emphasizes learning spray techniques, reading work instructions, and growing practical painting skills in a hands-on environment within an aerospace setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Related experience in painting, coating, auto body, and/or manufacturing preferred.
• Basic understanding of hand tools and interest in learning spray equipment setup.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, safety procedures, and basic mix sheets.
• Strong attention to detail and developing consistency in prep quality and spray technique.
• Reliability, punctuality, and openness to instruction, coaching and feedback.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic surface preparation under supervision, including cleaning, solvent wiping, scuff sanding, masking of components and critical areas (e.g., windows, bearings, data plates, pitot/static ports), and minor fill/feathering.
• Assist with setup, mixing, and basic maintenance of spray equipment (HVLP guns, cups, strainers), following OEM mix ratios and viscosity checks, and apply primer or single-color topcoat to simple parts using basic spray techniques under supervision.
• Follow PPE and safety requirements for respirators, paint suits, gloves, chemical handling, ventilation, hazardous waste procedures, and maintain tool control and a clean, organized, FOD-free work area.
• Inspect your work for obvious defects (runs, sags, contamination, coverage issues), seek guidance on corrections, and complete required documentation (e.g., work orders, travelers, checklists) with supervision as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Painting

Coating

Auto body

Manufacturing

Reading instructions

Attention to detail

Punctuality

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

HVLP guns

Spray equipment

Job description

Bell Piney Flats Aircraft Paint Team is seeking an entry-level Aircraft Painter to refinish helicopters and parts at the Piney Flats, TN site. You will perform basic surface prep, assist with spray equipment setup, and follow safety and documentation procedures under supervision.

The role emphasizes learning spray techniques, reading work instructions, and growing practical painting skills in a hands-on environment within an aerospace setting.