Paint Department Lead

Kenn Borek Air (KBA) is a diversified worldwide aircraft charter and leasing operation. The KBA team is currently seeking a Paint Department Lead.

The Paint Department Lead will be hands-on and appropriately qualified for the tasks undertaken in their shop. They will assist the Paint Department Manager in coordinating and prioritizing shop resources to ensure the timely return to service of all aircraft or associated components.

The role involves direct involvement in day-to-day operations and execution of tasks on the shop floor. The Paint Department Lead is responsible for all duties delegated by the Paint Department Manager and will step into their responsibilities during their absence.

Major Responsibilities of the Role:

• Sanding, masking, prepping for spray application.
• Install paint masks, stencils and ability to lay up strips and design by hand and fine-line tape (or be willing to learn).
• Assist in painting large wing and fuselage components and execute industrial paint applications on a timely basis to the highest quality standards.
• Continuous adherence to house keeping practices, and tools/equipment maintenance procedures.
• Clean, sand, and prep composite parts for high-build applications; remove and reapply seam sealing as necessary.
• Apply metal prep prime and base paint to aircraft surfaces using chemical application methods.
• Ensure all surfaces are free of dirt, debris, and contamination before painting.
• Unmask after stripping and inspect for any potential damage.
• Perform touch-up and detailing of paintwork as required.
• Complete all relevant paperwork associated with job functions.
• Perform all tasks in strict adherence to Canadian Aviation Regulations and Standards, as well as Company Policies and Procedures.
• Coordinate shop resources to ensure timely availability of parts and labor, minimizing delays and ensuring aircraft and components are returned to service without unnecessary hold-ups.
• Provide technical support and guidance to Paint Technicians and Prep Technicians.
• Oversee and manage paint supply, ensuring efficient product flow to meet production requirements.
• Foster a professional and courteous environment when interacting with clients, vendors, and coworkers to ensure a safe and efficient operation.
• Ensure that all the paintwork meets or exceeds industry standards, conducting thorough inspections and assessments to verify the quality and durability of the finish.
• Strictly adhere to safety protocols and ensure that all paint-related processes follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents or exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Track and maintain paint inventory levels, ordering supplies as needed to ensure continuous workflow without delays.
• Regularly inspect maintain and calibrate spray painting equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Assist in the training and development of Paint Prep Technician and Paint Technicians or new team members to build a highly skilled and efficient team.
• Identify and resolve any issues that arise during the painting process, whether related to material, equipment or techniques.
• Work closely with other departments including production and maintenance, to ensure coordination and smooth workflow throughout the project.
• Ensure that all necessary documentation related to paint procedures, quality inspections, and material usage is accurate, up to date and properly filed.
• Identify issues related to paint finishes, recommend corrective actions, and provide guidance on proper procedures for resolution.
• Effectively prioritize tasks and manage time to meet deadlines, ensuring that all projects are completed efficiently and on schedule.
• Undertake additional duties as assigned by the Paint Department Manager.

• Minimum five (5) years of experience in spray painting, body shop, and/or factory painting.
• Secondary school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must have great painting skills with HVLP spray guns.
• Prepping, masking, custom work, detailing experience and/or sanding of fibre glass experience would be an asset.
• Possession of an Aviation Painter certification or Red Seal Automotive Refinishing Technician certification would be an asset.
• Ability to read and interpret paint design drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate and report.
• Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform tasks involving prolonged standing, sitting, crouching, kneeling, and bending.
• Ability to work at heights and in physically demanding conditions.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan, schedule, and manage complex tasks.
• Comfort with working in environments that may include chemicals, dust, adverse weather conditions, and confined spaces.

Kenn Borek Air offers a comprehensive employment package containing competitive wages, an excellent company-funded benefits program, a wellness flexible spending account, and an RRSP matching program. And sometimes it is the little gestures such as receiving paid time off to enjoy your birthday!

Pre-employment Drug and Alcohol screening is a condition of employment. Screening is provided at KBA expense and will be conducted, where possible, on the first day of employment.