How to Be Aircraft Refinisher/Painter - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 21, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Aircraft refinishers and painters play an important role in the aviation industry. Their work involves using specialized chemicals, paints, and tools to spruce up the look of an aircraft, making it look brand new. The process of refinishing and painting an aircraft requires a great deal of skill and expertise.

The end result of an Aircraft refinisher/painters work can have a major impact on the value of the aircraft and its ability to perform as expected. Poorly done refinishing and painting jobs can lead to corrosion, flaking paint, and other issues, creating costly repairs and maintenance for the aircraft owner. It is therefore essential to hire a qualified aircraft refinisher/painter to ensure that the job is done properly and that the aircraft is protected from future damage.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED.
Learn the basics of aircraft refinishing and painting. Read books, watch videos, and practice with scrap aircraft parts to learn the basics of aircraft refinishing and painting.
Obtain certification in aircraft refinishing and painting. Many employers require applicants to have certification in aircraft refinishing and painting before they can be considered for a job. Certification is usually obtained through a trade school or apprenticeship program.
Find an entry-level position. Search job postings for entry-level positions in aircraft refinishing and painting. Apply for open positions and attend interviews when invited.
Gain experience. With experience, you can apply for higher-level positions in aircraft refinishing and painting.
Consider additional certifications. Consider taking additional courses or earning certifications to increase your chances of getting higher-level positions in the field.

Aircraft refinishing and painting is an important and highly specialized skill set within the aviation industry. To remain ahead and qualified, aircraft refinishers/painters must continually educate themselves and stay up to date on the latest technologies and techniques for aircraft painting. They should be aware of all regulations, safety standards, and processes related to aircraft painting, and use the best products, tools, and equipment.

they should ensure they have the proper protective clothing when applying paints and chemicals and maintain a clean, organized work environment. By taking the necessary steps to stay ahead and qualified, aircraft refinishers/painters can ensure their work meets the highest standards.

You may want to check Automotive Paint Technician/Painter, Sandblaster/Painter, and Aircraft Paint Mixer/Painter for alternative.

Job Description

Preparing aircraft surfaces for painting by removing existing paint, cleaning, sanding, priming and performing minor repairs
Applying primer, basecoat, and finish coats to aircraft surfaces using spray guns, brushes, and other specialized tools
Applying custom graphics, decals, and markings to aircraft surfaces using stencils and other methods
Mixing and matching colors of paint to meet customer specifications
Inspecting painted surfaces for quality assurance
Operating paint booths and other equipment related to aircraft painting
Maintaining a safe and clean work environment
Adhering to safety regulations and regulations related to hazardous materials

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aircraft coatings, primers, and related materials.
Familiarity with aircraft surfaces and components.
Ability to use a variety of hand and power tools.
Skilled in sanding, polishing and buffing techniques.
Knowledge of aircraft painting procedures and regulations.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and schematics.
Experience with mixing and matching colors.
Ability to lift and move heavy objects.
Excellent attention to detail.
Ability to work from heights on ladders and scaffolding.
Strong organizational skills.
Excellent time management skills.
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations.
Knowledge of the proper disposal of hazardous materials.

The most important skill to have when becoming an aircraft refinisher/painter is attention to detail. Attention to detail is essential for the safety and security of air travel as well as the aesthetic appeal of aircrafts. When refinishing and painting aircrafts, precision and accuracy are key.

From prepping the plane, mixing the paint, and applying the paint, every step must be done with a high level of detail and accuracy. An aircraft refinisher/painter must have an eye for detail and the ability to identify any errors or imperfections in the paint job. In addition, experience and knowledge of different types of paints and coatings are important.

Knowledge of the various application methods, along with the safety protocols associated with the use of hazardous materials, are also necessary skills for an aircraft refinisher/painter. Without these skills, an aircraft refinisher/painter would not be able to properly carry out their duties and could risk endangering passengers by compromising the safety of the aircraft.

Aircraft Paint Reconditioner/Painter, Ceiling and Wall Painter, and Aircraft Painter are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with aircraft refinishing/painting?
How comfortable are you using power tools and spray equipment?
Describe a complex aircraft refinishing/painting job that you have completed.
What techniques do you use to protect aircraft parts while refinishing or painting?
What steps do you take to ensure a high-quality finish?
What safety protocols do you follow when painting or refinishing aircraft?
Describe any experience you have in preparing aircraft for refinishing/painting.
How do you select the appropriate paint for a specific aircraft model?
What is your experience with hazardous materials and chemicals used in refinishing/painting aircraft?
How do you stay up to date on the latest technologies in aircraft refinishing/painting?

Common Tools in Industry

Electric Sander. A power tool used to sand surfaces. (e. g. Bosch GSS18V-10)
Heat Gun. A device used to apply heat to a surface. (e. g. Wagner HT3500)
Spray Gun. An air-powered tool used to spray paint or other materials. (e. g. Graco Ultra MAX II 695)
Paint Mixer. A device used to mix paint for use in painting projects. (e. g. ColorMatic Paint Mixer)
Masking Tape. A tape used to mask off areas that should not be painted. (e. g. 3M ScotchBlue Painter's Tape)
Tape Measure. A device used to measure distances accurately. (e. g. Stanley 33-425 25-foot Powerlock Tape Measure)
Putty Knife. A tool used to spread putty and other soft materials. (e. g. Stanley 12-139 2-1/2-inch Putty Knife)
Paint Scraper. A tool used to remove paint, rust, and other materials from surfaces. (e. g. Flexi-Scraper 7-inch Paint and Rust Remover)
Safety Goggles. Protective eyewear used to protect the eyes from dust, debris, and other hazards while painting. (e. g. Uvex Stealth Safety Goggles)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
International Aerospace Coatings Association (IACA)
Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
Airline Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA)
International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT)
International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG)
Aircraft Painters and Refinishers Association (APRA)
Aircraft Painters and Refinishers International (APRI)

We also have Automotive Paint Applicator/Painter, Custom Painter, and Cabinet Maker/Painter jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Aircraft Painter. An aircraft painter is responsible for the application of paint and protective coatings to the exterior and interior of aircraft.
Aircraft Stripper. An aircraft stripper is responsible for removing old paint, sealants and other coatings from aircraft surfaces.
Primer. Primer is a preparatory coat used to seal the surface of an aircraft and provide a base for the application of subsequent layers of paint or protective coatings.
Polyurethane Paint. Polyurethane paint is a durable topcoat commonly used to finish the exterior of aircraft and other vehicles.
Sanding. Sanding is the process of abrading surfaces with sandpaper or other abrasive materials to achieve a desired finish.
Masking. Masking is the process of covering areas on an aircraft that are not intended to be painted or coated.
Sandblasting. Sandblasting is a process of propelling abrasive particles, such as sand, at high velocity against surfaces in order to clean and prepare them for painting or coating.
Powder Coating. Powder coating is a method of applying a decorative and protective finish to metal surfaces by electrostatically charging powder particles and then baking them onto the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the qualifications of an Aircraft Refinisher/Painter?

An Aircraft Refinisher/Painter typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as specialized training in aircraft painting and refinishing. A valid drivers license is also necessary.

What tasks does an Aircraft Refinisher/Painter perform?

An Aircraft Refinisher/Painter is responsible for preparing, painting, and finishing aircraft surfaces, as well as masking, stripping, and sanding. They are also responsible for performing quality control inspections, adhering to safety guidelines, and cleaning and maintaining tools and equipment.

What tools and materials do Aircraft Refinishers/Painters use?

Aircraft Refinishers/Painters typically use tools such as sanders, grinders, masks, paint guns, and other tools specific to aircraft refinishing. They also use a variety of materials such as primer, paint, fillers, and sealants.

What is the typical salary for an Aircraft Refinisher/Painter?

The average salary for an Aircraft Refinisher/Painter is around $41,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and the size of the employer.

What is the job outlook for Aircraft Refinisher/Painters?

The job outlook for Aircraft Refinisher/Painters is expected to be good over the next 10 years. As the demand for aircraft maintenance and repair increases, the need for skilled professionals in this field will also increase.