Paint Prep

Rheinmetall; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 38,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall is seeking a Prep Painter to prepare and prime parts used in defense systems. You will work with production and finishing teams to ensure surfaces are properly prepared for painting, following industry standards and safety rules.

The role requires cleaning, masking, sanding, and applying primers and topcoats while adhering to OSHA guidelines and maintaining equipment. Collaboration with painters and QC ensures on-time delivery of quality parts.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of coatings and finish prep in defense manufacturing preferred.
• Detail-oriented with ability to inspect materials for quality.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Familiarity with safety standards in an industrial setting.

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 preparation.
• Apply primer and topcoats to surfaces as needed.
• Follow PPE usage and OSHA safety protocols, and handle chemicals safely.
• Maintain prep equipment such as sanders, grinders, and spray booths.
• Collaborate with painters and quality control to meet specs and timelines.
• Use MRP systems to manage production schedules and material needs.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Surface prep knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Sanding tools

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.

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

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

With or without reasonable accommodation requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

• 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.