Maritime Painter/Coater — Surface Prep & Coatings Expert

Elite; Wanchese (NC); On-site; USD 24,796 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly wage

Comprehensive health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Training opportunities

Job summary

A maritime services company is seeking a skilled Maritime Painter/Coater in Wanchese, North Carolina. In this role, you will prepare and apply protective coatings to vessels. The ideal candidate has experience in marine painting, understands coating methods, and is capable of working in challenging conditions. Comprehensive health benefits and competitive wages are offered.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a maritime, industrial, or automotive painter.
• Knowledge of marine coatings, solvents, and application methods.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., SSPC) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Clean, sand, strip, and power wash surfaces.
• Operate sandblasting or water-jetting equipment.
• Inspect surfaces and finished coatings for quality control.
• Follow all PPE requirements and adhere to safety regulations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Verbal communication

Written communication

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Time management

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Sandblasting equipment

Sprayers

Sanding tools

Job description

We are seeking a skilled Maritime Painter/Coater to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and applying protective coatings—including paints, varnishes, and epoxies—to vessels and marine structures. Your work will safeguard surfaces such as steel, fiberglass, and wood from corrosion, wear, and harsh maritime environments. The position requires expert surface preparation, coating application, and strict adherence to safety and environmental standards.

Responsibilities

• Surface Preparation: Clean, sand, strip, and power wash surfaces to remove old coatings, rust, grease, and contaminants.
• Abrasive Blasting: Operate sandblasting or water-jetting equipment to prepare surfaces.
• Coating Application: Apply primers, anti-corrosive, anti-fouling, and finishing coatings using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment.
• Mixing & Matching: Accurately mix paints and coating materials to required specifications (color, viscosity, mil thickness).
• Quality Control: Inspect surfaces and finished coatings to ensure adhesion, durability, and high-quality finishes.
• Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Operate, maintain, and clean tools and equipment, including sprayers, sanders, and blasters. Set up scaffolding and containment systems as needed.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all PPE requirements and adhere to safety and environmental regulations.
• Estimating: Calculate surface areas and estimate required quantities of coating materials.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Proven experience as a maritime, industrial, or automotive painter (marine environment preferred).
• Knowledge of marine coatings, solvents, and application methods.
• Proficiency in surface preparation, including abrasive blasting.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., SSPC) preferred.
• Physical ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment and stand for extended periods.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail in preparation and application.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot coating challenges.
• Adaptability in changing work environments.
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Strong time management and task prioritization.

• Competitive hourly wage and overtime opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Training and professional development opportunities.
• Career advancement within the maritime industry.