PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking an experienced Aircraft Painter to support aerospace manufacturing operations in Wichita, KS. This role is responsible for the spray application of aerospace coatings on a variety of substrates, ensuring precision, quality, and compliance with engineering and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
Apply primers and finish coatings using spray equipment on aircraft components
Prepare surfaces through masking, sanding, cleaning, and racking operations
Mix paints to exact color specifications using manual or powered equipment
Interpret engineering blueprints, schematics, and planning documents
Perform alodine, primer, and topcoat applications per specifications
Conduct touch-ups, rework, and product modifications as required
Inspect in-process and completed work using precision measurement tools
Maintain daily logs, including air quality checks prior to paint operations
Perform routine maintenance on paint guns, sprayers, and related equipment
Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials in compliance with regulations
Move materials within the shop to support workflow and production timelines
Train and assist team members to ensure continuous production flow
Required Qualifications
Minimum 5+ years of experience in aircraft, aerospace, or industrial painting
Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
Strong color matching ability, including shades and brightness differentiation
Excellent hand-eye coordination, precision, and attention to detail
Ability to perform detailed work with small components and close visual inspection
Experience with spray painting equipment, abrasives, solvents, and coating processes
Work Schedule
Must be flexible and able to work any shift
Position will likely be assigned to 2nd shift
Preferred Experience
Aerospace or aviation painting experience strongly preferred
Knowledge of OSHA, BAC, and customer-specific requirements
Experience handling hazardous materials and following strict safety protocols
Work Environment & Safety
Required use of PPE: respirators, air hoods/masks, Tyvek suits, gloves, and safety eyewear
Must follow all safety procedures and regulatory requirements
Additional Requirements
Maintain required certifications, licenses, or permits
Ability to troubleshoot issues and improve paint processes
Support quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives
Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
The California Fair Chance Act
Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers