Painter

Painter Job Description

About Us

Firematic is a family-owned business that has proudly served those who protect us all for over 50 years. We are committed to delivering the highest quality fire apparatus and emergency response vehicles, built with precision, craftsmanship, and pride. We are seeking an experienced Custom Fire Apparatus Painter to join our team and help create the exceptional finishes that define our trucks.

Position Overview

This is not your typical painting position.

As a Custom Fire Apparatus Painter, you will play a critical role in the finishing process of custom-built fire trucks. Every vehicle is unique, requiring attention to detail, expert craftsmanship, and a commitment to producing showroom-quality finishes. The ideal candidate takes pride in their work, understands the importance of precision, and is passionate about delivering a final product that firefighters will rely on and proudly represent in their communities.

What You'll Do

Surface Preparation

• Prepare fire apparatus surfaces by sanding, masking, cleaning, and priming to ensure optimal paint adhesion.
• Inspect surfaces for imperfections and perform necessary repairs prior to painting.
• Protect components and adjacent surfaces from overspray and contamination.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment throughout the painting process.

Custom Paint & Design

• Apply custom paint schemes, striping, graphics, and specialty finishes according to detailed specifications.
• Interpret design layouts and work with complex multi-color paint patterns.
• Ensure consistency and accuracy across all custom paint applications.
• Assist in creating high-quality finishes that meet customer and manufacturer expectations.

Color Mixing & Paint Application

• Mix paints, primers, hardeners, and clear coats to precise manufacturer specifications.
• Match custom colors accurately using mixing systems and color formulas.
• Apply coatings using spray equipment while maintaining consistent coverage and finish quality.
• Monitor environmental conditions to achieve optimal paint performance and durability.

Quality Control & Finishing

• Inspect painted surfaces for defects, color consistency, gloss level, and finish quality.
• Perform touch-ups, polishing, buffing, and final detailing as needed.
• Ensure completed apparatus meet company quality standards before delivery.
• Document completed work and communicate any issues requiring correction.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Professional Experience

• 2–5 years of professional automotive, commercial vehicle, industrial, or custom painting experience.
• Experience with large vehicles or custom equipment is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of modern paint systems, spray equipment, and finishing techniques.

Portfolio Requirement

• A portfolio showcasing previous painting projects is required.
• Examples should demonstrate color matching, custom finishes, attention to detail, and overall craftsmanship.
• Experience with custom graphics, striping, or specialty finishes is a plus.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of paint preparation, application techniques, and finishing processes.
• Ability to mix colors accurately and work with manufacturer specifications.
• Experience operating spray booths, HVLP spray guns, sanding equipment, and polishing tools.
• Ability to read work orders, paint specifications, and technical drawings.

Safety & Compliance

• Thorough understanding of paint shop safety procedures and OSHA regulations.
• Knowledge of proper handling, storage, and disposal of paints, solvents, and hazardous materials.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Ability to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE).

Customer & Team Collaboration

• Ability to interpret customer specifications and deliver work that exceeds expectations.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with production, fabrication, and quality teams.
• Professional attitude with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and continuous improvement.

Who You Are

• Highly detail-oriented with exceptional craftsmanship.
• Takes pride in producing flawless, high-quality finishes.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Dependable, organized, and committed to meeting production schedules.
• Passionate about creating vehicles that firefighters will proudly serve with.

Why You'll Love It Here

• Join a family-owned company with over 50 years of industry leadership.
• Work on one-of-a-kind, custom-built fire apparatus.
• Be part of a skilled team dedicated to quality and craftsmanship.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Take pride in knowing your work helps support first responders and the communities they protect.