Engineering Technician IV​/V – Painter; Ordnance Security Clearance

Position: Engineering Technician IV/V – Painter (Ordnance Support) with Security Clearance
*
* Location:

** On-site at NSWC Crane, IN
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* Employment Type:

** Full-time
** Salary:
** Commensurate with experience. SCA Wage Determination applies. Includes 8% hazard pay premium.
** Clearance Level

Required:

** Secret. US Citizenship required. About Us :
Tri-County Steel LLC (TCS) is a service-disabled veteran-owned small business located in Bedford, Indiana. We have been a trusted defense contractor supporting our industry and government partners for over 16 years, offering a wide variety of logistics, programmatic, and engineering support services. We pride ourselves on a strong commitment to our clients and a focus on quality and reliability in everything we do.

Additionally, we are dedicated to the growth and development of our employees, providing opportunities for advancement and professional growth.

Job Summary:

TCS is seeking an experienced Painter to support military coating operations at NSWC Crane. The successful candidate will apply a variety of coating systems - including primers, topcoats, and specialty military finishes - with demonstrated proficiency and minimal supervision. This is not a learn-on-the-job role; we are looking for an experienced professional who can contribute immediately, assist in guiding junior staff, and operate effectively within a safety-sensitive, compliance-driven environment.

Passing a DOT physical, pre-employment drug screening, and participation in a random drug testing program are mandatory. A Secret clearance is required for this position.

Essential Functions:

* Apply primers, topcoats, and specialty military coatings in accordance with project specifications, applicable standards, and quality control requirements.
* Perform surface preparation including cleaning, sanding, masking, and priming prior to coating application.
* Mix and prepare coatings per manufacturer specifications and project requirements.
* Set up, operate, adjust, and perform routine maintenance on paint room equipment including HVLP sprayers, mixers, and ventilation systems.
* Read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions to ensure accurate execution.
* Use precision measuring equipment (e.g., calipers, mil thickness gauges) to verify coating quality and compliance.
* Inspect finished surfaces for quality assurance; identify and troubleshoot application issues and perform rework as necessary.
* Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work area at all times.
* Assist and mentor junior-level staff, providing hands-on guidance to ensure adherence to quality and safety standards.
* Support ordnance-related activities in accordance with explosive safety policies and site-specific procedures.
* Assist in basic testing, data collection, and maintenance of documentation as required.

Experience and Skills:

* Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience in industrial, automotive, or military-grade painting applications; real-world body shop or depot-level experience strongly preferred.
* Demonstrated proficiency with HVLP and other paint spraying systems in a booth environment.
* Proven ability to mix and apply coatings in accordance with manufacturer specifications and rework coating system standards.
* Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and written work instructions.
* Familiarity with precision measuring equipment, including calipers and mil thickness gauges.
* Strong mechanical aptitude with experience maintaining paint room equipment.
* High attention to detail; neat, precise execution with consistent, verifiable results.
* Comfortable with PPE requirements including forced air respiration systems.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a high-safety, compliance-driven environment.
* Experience assisting or mentoring junior staff in a production or technical environment Desired

Qualifications:

* Industry-recognized certification in industrial coatings, painting systems, or similar (not required per TI, but preferred).
* Prior experience in ordnance, depot, or military support environments.
* Familiarity with CARC coatings and military coating system specifications.
* Understanding of explosive safety and hazard protocols.

Physical Requirements:

* Must be able to pass a DOT medical exam.
* Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and participate in a random drug testing program.
* Must be able to wear full PPE including respirators.
* Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in paint booth environments for extended periods. Travel:
None expected. Benefits:
* Comprehensive health benefits, including life, health, dental, vision, short-term disability (STD), and long-term disability (LTD) coverage for eligible employees and family members.
* 401(K) Plan with company match.
* 12 paid holidays.
* Paid time off (PTO).
* Competitive salaries.

Application Process:

We invite resumes from all interested parties. Part of the hiring process please follow the link below for a quick survey