Iowa State Fair Authority

Position: Painter

Position Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Hours vary based on operational needs, projects, events, and seasonal requirements

Position Summary

The Painter is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the appearance, protection, and overall condition of Iowa State Fair Authority buildings, structures, and facilities. This position performs a variety of professional painting, surface preparation, drywall finishing, glazing, caulking, and repair work.

The ideal candidate takes pride in quality craftsmanship, works safely and efficiently, and enjoys working as part of a team in an environment that serves both coworkers and the general public.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

60% – Painting & Surface Preparation

Prepare and apply a variety of coatings and finishes to new and existing structures to protect surfaces and maintain a clean, attractive appearance.

·         Prepare surfaces for painting by sanding, scraping, water blasting, and other appropriate methods.

·         Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free of loose or deteriorated material before applying coatings.

·         Prime bare wood, metal, and other surfaces as needed.

·         Identify and repair holes, gouges, cracks, knots, and other surface imperfections before applying finish coats.

·         Apply coatings evenly and professionally, producing a smooth, consistent finish free of runs, sags, blisters, holidays, skips, and other defects.

·         Complete detailed trim and edging work with clean, precise lines between painted areas.

·         Apply a variety of coatings and finishes, including acrylic latex, epoxy, urethane-based, lacquer, oil-based, and other specialty products.

·         Select and use appropriate tools, equipment, and materials for each project.

·         Complete assigned projects efficiently and within established timelines.

·         Maintain a high standard of workmanship and attention to detail.

20% – Surface Repair, Glazing & Drywall Finishing

Perform repairs and finishing work to restore surfaces and prepare them for painting or other finishes.

·         Apply glazing compounds, putty, caulks, plaster, and related materials as needed.

·         Repair cracks, seal joints, fill holes, and replace or repair broken windows and related materials.

·         Remove damaged, loose, or deteriorated materials and install new materials to achieve a smooth, uniform finish with proper adhesion.

·         Tape and finish drywall to create smooth, even surfaces suitable for painting or texturing.

·         Apply joint compound and related materials to produce flat, consistent finishes with minimal visibility of seams and joints.

·         Complete repair and finishing work efficiently and within established timelines.

15% – Shop & Equipment Maintenance

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

·         Clean and properly maintain painting tools, equipment, and work areas.

·         Properly store and handle paints, solvents, chemicals, and other products in accordance with applicable safety standards.

·         Inspect equipment and work areas and report maintenance or safety concerns as appropriate.

·         Follow established safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment.

5% – Safety & Record Keeping

Maintain and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) requirements for paints, coatings, solvents, and other products.

·         Ensure chemical products are properly labeled, stored, and handled.

·         Maintain required records and documentation related to products, safety, and assigned work.

·         Follow all applicable workplace safety policies, procedures, and regulations.

5% – Other Duties

·         Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.

·         Assist with facility and event-related projects as operational needs require.

·         Work collaboratively with other Iowa State Fair Authority team members to support a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

·         Professional, friendly, and approachable manner when working with team members, vendors, visitors, and the general public.

·         Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently when assigned projects.

·         Demonstrated ability to take initiative and provide leadership when appropriate.

·         Minimum of journeyman-level painting knowledge and experience required.

·         Knowledge of professional painting techniques, surface preparation, coatings, and finishing materials.

·         Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

·         Ability to climb ladders and work at elevated heights.

·         Ability to reach overhead and work in a variety of physical positions for extended periods.

·         Ability to distinguish colors accurately for painting and finishing applications.

·         Valid driver’s license and ability to maintain insurability under Iowa State Fair Authority requirements.

·         Five years of commercial painting experience preferred.

Work Environment

This position involves working both indoors and outdoors and may require working in a variety of weather conditions. The Painter may work around ladders, lifts, power tools, paints, coatings, solvents, and other construction or maintenance materials.

The position requires flexibility, attention to detail, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to adjust priorities based on facility needs, special projects, and Iowa State Fair operations.

What Success Looks Like

A successful Painter takes pride in the appearance and condition of Iowa State Fair Authority facilities, consistently delivers quality workmanship, works safely and efficiently, and contributes positively to a team environment. This role plays an important part in ensuring that the grounds and facilities are safe, attractive, welcoming, and ready for employees, vendors, performers, and Fair guests.