Coatings Preparation Technician (Weapon Systems)

CoAspire; Manassas (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision benefits

401(k) with company match

PTO and Federal holidays

Job summary

A defense manufacturing leader in Virginia is seeking a Preparation Specialist to support the weapon systems production line. This hands-on role involves preparing components for coating and adhering to safety protocols. Ideal candidates have 1-3 years of manufacturing experience and familiarity with hand tools. The position offers competitive benefits, including full medical coverage and a robust 401(k) plan. Join a collaborative team focused on innovation and impact in mission-critical technology.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of hands-on industrial, manufacturing or fabricating experience.
• Willingness to train in HVLP spray application.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Excellent attention to detail, safety mindset, and PPE experience.
• Ability to lift heavy objects over 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Receive, dismantle and inspect assets.
• Prepare asset components for coatings by cleaning and sandpapering.
• Conduct coating thickness measurements and adhesion testing.
• Conduct coating thickness measurements and adhesion testing.
• Enforce safety protocols and support yield improvements.
• Operate company vehicles and forklift as needed.
• Re-assemble and pack assets after coatings cure.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.

Skills

Hands-on industrial experience

Familiarity with hand tools

Attention to detail

Safety mindset

Education

Trade school/apprenticeship completion

NACE, SSPC, or equivalent coatings certification

Tools

HVLP spray application

Adhesives, coatings, and chemicals

Sander

Job description

CoAspire (https://www.coaspire.com) is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation’s warfighters. Our tight-knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work-life balance come first with a focus on professional growth at our new 27,000+ sq. ft. facility. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission-critical technology while enjoying Northern Virginia's vibrant community.

Position

You will serve as a preparation specialist for our weapon systems production line. This hands-on role encompasses the receiving, cleaning, masking, sanding and jigging of manufactured parts in order to be ready for coating. You will support painting operations and drive process improvements in a controlled AS9100D/ISO-9001 environment.

Responsibilities

• Receive, dismantle and inspect assets
• Prepare asset components for coatings by cleaning surfaces, masking, applying pre-treatment, sanding and jigging parts
• Work with adhesives, coatings and chemicals
• Conduct coating thickness measurements (wet/dry film mil gauges), adhesion testing (tape/cross-hatch), conductivity/resistivity checks, and visual inspections post painting.
• Enforce and follow safety protocols
• Contribute to yield improvements and cost reductions in coating processes
• Operate company vehicles and forklift as needed
• Re-assemble and pack assets after coatings have cured
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of hands‑on industrial, manufacturing or fabricating experience
• Familiarity with hand tools such as drills, saws, and sanders
• Willingness and aptitude to train in High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) spray application
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance (or the ability to obtain a clearance).
• Excellent attention to detail, safety mindset, and ability to work in a respirator and PPE for extended periods.
• Ability to lift heavy objects, greater than 50lbs.

Desired Skills

• Experience with the application of coatings
• Experience in AS9100D/ITAR‑controlled DoW contractor facilities
• Experience painting missile bodies, radomes, guidance sections, or loitering munitions
• Familiarity with low‑VOC/waterborne coatings, automated/robotic paint systems, or powder coating
• Trade school/apprenticeship completion or journeyman status
• NACE, SSPC, or equivalent coatings certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Experience with masking techniques for precision aerospace components

What We Offer

Beyond competitive pay, we offer:

• Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting
• PTO and Federal holidays

Apply now! We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Let's build the future together. No agencies, please.