Paint Technician (Starship)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; United States; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer is seeking a Paint Technician for its Starship project. The role involves mixing, stripping, and detailing advanced paint systems while ensuring safety and quality standards. Candidates should have at least a high school diploma and 1+ years of relevant experience. Preferred qualifications include 3+ years in the aerospace sector and strong communication skills. This position may require extended hours and adherence to U.S. export regulations.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience spraying advanced paint systems or a degree from a trade school.
• 3+ years of industry experience in advanced paint systems is preferred.
• Ability to interpret work instructions and technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Mix, strip, paint, and detail advanced paint systems.
• Prepare metallic substrates using abrasion and chemical etchants.
• Conduct maintenance on paint spraying equipment.

Skills

Mixing advanced paint systems

Using precision measuring tools

Adhering to safety and quality standards

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

Calipers

Elcometers

Paint spraying equipment

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity explores the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

PAINT TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP)

The Starship Paint Technician mixes, strips, paints, and details advanced paint systems, prepares metallic substrates via abrasion and etchants, applies sealants/adhesives, maintains spraying equipment, and uses precision tools like calipers while supporting safety, quality, and delivery improvements.

Responsibilities

• Mix, strip, paint, and detail advanced paint systems on Starship vehicles
• Prepare metallic substrates using mechanical abrasion and chemical etchants
• Mix and apply sealants and adhesives for structural components
• Conduct periodic maintenance on various paint spraying equipment (such as gravity‑fed, pressure pot, and airless‑type)
• Accurately use precision measuring tools such as calipers, Elcometers, or ohmmeters
• Assist with area projects to improve safety, quality, and delivery

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of experience spraying advanced paint systems (e.g., epoxies, urethanes, solvent‑based paints, and/or acrylics) OR a degree/certificate from an accredited trade school/program

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 3+ years of industry experience in advanced paint systems; experience in a manufacturing or production environment in the aerospace or aviation industry
• Ability to interpret electronic work instructions, process specifications, and technical drawings
• Ability to perform basic shop math (such as geometry and trigonometry)
• Ability to manage accurate mix ratios, cure schedules, and overcoat windows
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), refugee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Exclusive Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].