Paint Prep

American Rheinmetall; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall in Michigan is seeking a Prep Painter to prepare and prime parts used in defense systems, working with production and finishing teams to ensure surfaces are ready for painting according to industry standards. The role involves cleaning, sanding, masking, applying primers and topcoats, and maintaining equipment.

You will follow safety protocols, work with materials handling, and use MRPs to keep production on schedule.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 0–12 months experience in surface preparation or industrial painting preferred.
• Knowledge of coatings and defense industry requirements preferred.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare metal, plastic, and other materials by cleaning, sanding, grinding, and masking.
• Load and unload materials onto pallets, skids, conveyors, or trucks.
• Inspect materials for surface imperfections before starting.
• Apply primer and topcoats to touch up surfaces.
• Follow safety protocols, PPE usage, and OSHA standards.
• Maintain prep equipment like sanders, grinders, and spray booths.
• Collaborate with painters and quality control to meet specs.
• Use MRP systems to manage production schedules and materials.
• Perform additional duties as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Industrial painting

MRP systems

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Sanders

Grinders

Spray booths

Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary

The Prep Painter will be responsible for preparing and priming parts and components that are used in the production of defense systems and equipment. You will work closely with our production and finishing teams to ensure that all surfaces are properly prepared for final painting or coating processes, meeting industry standards and specifications.

Essential Functions

• Prepare metal, plastic, and other materials by cleaning, sanding, grinding, and masking to remove any dirt, rust, or other contaminants that could affect paint adhesion.
• Loads and unloads materials, parts, or products onto or from pallets, skids, conveyors, or trucks.
• Inspect materials for surface imperfections, defects, or contaminants before beginning the preparation process.
• Apply primer and topcoats to touch up various surfaces.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and regulations to ensure a safe working environment, including the proper use of PPE (personal protective equipment) and following OSHA standards.
• Safely handle and store painting materials, chemicals, and equipment, ensuring all safety guidelines and environmental regulations are followed.
• Maintain and clean prep equipment, such as sanders, grinders, and spray booths, to ensure they are in proper working condition.
• Work with other team members, including painters and quality control staff, to ensure that projects are completed on time and meet all necessary specifications.
• Utilize MRP systems to manage production schedules, and material requirements to ensure timely availability of materials for painting and coating processes.
• Perform all job-related duties, including but not limited to the responsibilities outlined above, and any additional responsibilities as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)

• Knowledge of materials, coatings, and the defense industry’s specific requirements for painting and finishing preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to inspect and assess materials for quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Knowledge of safety standards and practices in an industrial or manufacturing setting is preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Specific knowledge that can be determined objectively; suggested vocabulary below

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent

Experience

• 0-12 months experience in surface preparation, industrial painting, or a similar role, preferably in defense manufacturing or a related field preferred.

Background Prerequisites

Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks and controlled substance testing.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Frequently lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, kneel and bend for extended periods.
• Comfort with working in an industrial setting with exposure to noise, dust, and chemicals.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.