Lead Aircraft Paint Technician

Job Title Lead Aircraft Paint Technician Job Description Summary The Lead Aircraft Paint Technician is responsible for supervising the aircraft paint team and ensuring all painting operations meet quality, safety, and scheduling standards. This role requires advanced technical expertise in aircraft painting, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage workflow and personnel effectively. The Team Lead is accountable for team performance and acts as the primary liaison between the paint crew and management. Job description Essential Duties and Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned): Lead and manage aircraft painting projects from initial surface preparation through final inspection and delivery. Manage day-to-day operations of the aircraft paint crew to meet production schedules and support the Final Assembly Line (FAL). Supervise, mentor, and guide paint technicians on masking, sanding, priming, painting, and clear coating processes to ensure consistent, high-quality finishes. Interpret and apply paint schemes, stencils, and decals according to engineering drawings and customer specifications. Ensure proper mixing and application of paint materials, including primers, topcoats, and specialty finishes. Monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, ventilation) to ensure optimal paint application and curing. Operate and maintain paint equipment such as HVLP spray guns, pressure pots, air compressors, and paint booths. Ensure proper use, maintenance, and calibration of paint equipment and tools. Conduct inspections at each stage of the painting process to identify defects and ensure compliance with FAA and OEM standards. Coordinate with the parts department to ensure timely availability of materials required to complete assigned tasks. Troubleshoot paint-related issues and implement corrective actions. Coordinate with Quality Assurance to resolve discrepancies and ensure aircraft release readiness. Ensure proper disposal and recycling of paint waste in accordance with environmental regulations. Assist in final inspection of aircraft and maintain paint shop premises in a clean and orderly condition. Maintain detailed documentation of work performed, including paint logs, material usage, and inspection reports. Train individual team members to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory standards are consistently upheld. Implement and uphold safety protocols for handling hazardous materials, PPE usage, and equipment operation. Monitor and adjust workflow and manpower to meet changing production demands. Uphold and enforce all company policies and procedures. Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying process inefficiencies and recommending solutions. Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise, train, and mentor a team of aircraft paint technicians Foster a positive work environment and enhance skills through training and coaching. Responsible for delegating tasks while maintaining full accountability for team performance and output. Conduct regular team meetings to communicate goals, updates, and safety protocols. Support the Paint Shop Manager in preparing performance evaluations and managing personnel development. Ensure compliance with company policies, safety protocols, and applicable regulations (FAA, OSHA, EPA, hazmat). Promote teamwork, professionalism, and a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Participate in hiring, onboarding, and disciplinary processes as needed. Position Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in aircraft painting preferred. Minimum 5 – 7 years of experience in aircraft painting, with at least 1 year in a leadership role. Strong knowledge of aircraft paint systems, surface preparation, masking, and finishing techniques. Familiarity with safety regulations, hazardous materials handling, and environmental compliance. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications. Join Daher to... Integrate a family group with a long-term vision Make a difference in a developing company Develop new skills thanks to the diversity of your missions Take part in a human and industrial adventure full of challenges Innovate and think outside the box by integrating a stimulating environment Profile and other information related to the position What are we looking for: We’re looking for a motivated and experienced Aircraft Paint Lead who brings leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to quality. The ideal candidate will demonstrate: Proven experience in aircraft painting and finishing techniques Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise and mentor a team Excellent attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship Ability to interpret and apply complex paint schemes and technical drawings Strong communication skills for cross-functional collaboration Ability to work professionally and respectfully with others Proactive problem-solving and decision-making abilities Ability to logically work with mechanical processes and tools Basic understanding of regulations and guidelines including, but not limited to, OSHA, HAZMAT, and EPA Knowledge of FAA regulations and environmental compliance Perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines. Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities Passion for continuous improvement and operational efficiency Drive to succeed and deliver results Passion for helping your team succeed and grow Commitment to delivering first-time quality in all tasks Reliable attendance, including availability for overtime and weekend assignments Responsibility to notify manager in advance if unable to work a scheduled shift A safety-first mindset and dedication to maintaining a clean, organized work environment Attend work every day as scheduled, including overtime and weekend assignments Compensation & Benefits Overtime opportunities available. Comprehensive health insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision Paid time off (PTO) - 3 Weeks per year 12- Paid Holidays per year 401(k) with company match Employee Referral Bonuses Life insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability Vanpool transportation available from Bonners Ferry and Coeur d'Alene Equipment Used Air equipment, polisher and sander. Electrostatic paint guns, pressure posts, and laser level. Working hours Full time Salary 83200USD Region Idaho Location Sandpoint Experience Languages Creative and entrepreneur, develop your career at the heart of the biggest industrial challenges with Daher! As an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial service provider and logistician, Daher currently has approximately 14,000 employees and achieved a revenue of 1.8 billion euros in 2024. With its family ownership, Daher has been focused on innovation since its creation in 1863. With locations in 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aeronautical and industrial customers and partners.