Painter

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

In this role, you will apply aerospace paint finishes to ensure components meet precise drawing and specification requirements. You will prepare, mask, mix, and apply coatings using a variety of spray equipment, working closely with manufacturing and quality teams to deliver compliant, high‑quality parts that support mission‑critical space systems. Your expertise in paint processes, materials, and equipment will help ensure consistent finishes and reliable performance within a fast‑paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Uses a variety of spray-painting equipment, including high‑volume low‑pressure (HVLP) spray guns, pressure pots, siphon cup guns, and gravity feed cup guns to apply finishes that meet drawing and specification requirements.
• Interprets and executes masking requirements using methods that conform to specifications.
• Prepares surfaces and applies aerospace paints, primers, and coatings according to mixing, handling, and curing specifications.
• Uses measuring devices such as mil‑thickness gauges, calipers, tape measures, and squares to verify paint application accuracy.
• Reads and interprets aerospace blueprints, drawings, and specifications to plan required steps and ensure compliance.
• Uses material‑handling equipment to move parts through the painting process and to subsequent operations.
• Maintains required environmental documentation and records to support compliance.
• Performs prep work using hand tools and ensures work areas remain clean and organized.
• Communicates effectively with manufacturing management and quality assurance representatives to resolve issues and achieve required results.
• Applies all applicable safety requirements while working in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; candidates with significant relevant work experience in lieu of a degree will be considered.
• One year of experience or equivalent trade‑school training using hand and spray equipment, hand tools, and basic masking methods (“C” Painter level).
• Three years of experience or equivalent knowledge in mixing multi‑component aerospace paints, operating HVLP and airless equipment, keeping environmental compliance records, and interpreting aerospace documentation (“B” Painter level).
• Five years of experience or equivalent knowledge in aerospace painting; full understanding of aerospace paints and primers; ability to interpret manufacturer specifications; complete knowledge of aerospace paint prep and repair; ability to develop complex masking templates; and proficiency with all painting methods (“A” Painter level).

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience preferably in aerospace, defense, or manufacturing.
• Experience in aerospace and defense industry environments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks.

The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Special Mentions

• Combination of office and warehouse/shop‑floor environment.
• May require occasional lifting, standing, and physical coordination of shipments.
• Occasional overtime may be required to meet deadlines.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.