Job Description
Paint Tech Prepper I is an entry\-level technician responsible for performing basic surface preparation, simple masking, cleaning, and assisting with operations on aerospace hardware. This role focuses on developing foundational technical painting skills while working under close supervision to ensure high\-quality prepping and basic finishing in support of production needs. The Technician Paint Prepper – I contribute to a safe, compliant, and organized paint environment, follows detailed instructions precisely, and supports team efforts to maintain quality and efficiency standards.
The Operations Strategic Capabilities Unit plays a fundamental role in enabling efficient business and program execution – from strategic capital investments, industrial operations and an efficient supply chain, to state\-of\-the\-art manufacturing and test operations and top\-notch facilities management.
What You’ll Do:
- Key Responsibilities Aerospace Painting \& Surface Preparation Support:
- Technical Interpretation \& Documentation:
- Safety, Compliance \& Chemical Handling:
- Operational Excellence \& Continuous Improvement:
- Cross\-Functional Support \& Team Collaboration:
- General Responsibilities:
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Each higher\-level related degree, i.e., Bachelor’s or Master’s, may substitute for two years of related experience. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
- Entry\-level experience in painting, surface preparation, industrial cleaning, or related hands\-on work (aerospace, automotive, or manufacturing preferred but not required).
- Basic understanding of surface cleaning, sanding, masking, and preparation processes.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and read simple technical documents or drawings.
- Willingness and ability to work safely with industrial chemicals and hazardous materials.
- Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and commitment to quality.
- Ability to work under close supervision while learning and contributing to team objectives.
- Prior experience or training in aerospace coatings, industrial painting, or related finishing operations.
- Familiarity with basic aerospace specifications, quality standards, or controlled environments.
- Completion of relevant technical program, certification, or apprenticeship in painting/coatings.
- Basic cross\-training or exposure to manufacturing or finishing processes.
+ General mechanical or technical aptitude and willingness to learn hands\-on skills.
+ Ability to follow directions and work from written or verbal instructions.
+ Attention to detail and commitment to doing quality work.
+ Comfortable performing repetitive or detail\-oriented tasks for extended periods.
+ Basic comfort using hand tools and working in a shop or manufacturing environment.
+ Willingness to work safely around industrial materials and follow safety procedures.
+ Positive attitude and ability to work well as part of a team.
+ Dependable, punctual, and able to work under supervision while learning new processes.
+ Read and follow basic work instructions, process sheets, and simple drawings to complete assigned preparation tasks.
+ Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures and controlled documentation.
+ Record basic production data, material usage, and log activities as directed.
+ Safely handle and use chemicals, solvents, cleaners, paints, and hazardous materials under guidance.
+ Comply with all aerospace, environmental, health, and safety regulations and procedures.
+ Use required personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilation systems, and follow hazardous material handling protocols.
+ Keep work areas clean, organized, and ready for production activities.
+ Report any observed issues with tools, equipment, or processes to supervisors.
+ Assist in basic tasks to support workflow efficiency and reduce rework.
+ Work closely with senior technicians, painters, and team members to complete assigned tasks.
+ Provide basic support to paint operations and related manufacturing areas as needed.
+ Maintain positive working relationships and contribute to a safe, professional team environment.
+ Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
+ Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
+ Perform other duties as necessary.
On\-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in\-person engagement by working on\-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non\-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:
Work is performed in an office environment, laboratory, cleanroom, or production floor.
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Required Education, Experience, \& Skills
\#LI\-SW2
A DoW Interim Secret clearance will be required to start work and required to be maintained to continue work. Higher level clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access.
Preferred Education, Experience, \& Skills
Pay Information
Full\-Time Salary Range: $40003 \- $64006
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well\-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20\+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non\-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Space \& Mission Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space \& Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Multiple positions may be available on this opening.