Automotive Paint & Blast Technician

Automotive Blasting & Paint Technician

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Automotive Blasting & Paint Technician: $30.00/HR

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided.

Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

• Conduct detailed initial inspections to determine scope of work, substrate material (steel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass), and condition of existing coatings.

• Identify corrosion, previous body repairs, paint failures, and required refinishing procedures.

• Remove, label, inventory, and safely store trim, hardware, lighting, and associated components to ensure unobstructed access.

• Perform precise color matching using computerized systems, spectrophotometers, and spray-out test panels to achieve factory-level accuracy and seamless blending.

• Clean and degrease all surfaces using automotive-grade wax and grease removers to eliminate contaminants (silicone, oil, tar, road debris).

• Strip, sand, and feather existing finishes using DA sanders, block sanding techniques, and appropriate abrasives.

• Perform minor body repairs including application and shaping of fillers and glazing putties; sand to OEM-level contour standards.

• Expertly mask and protect all non-painted areas using professional automotive masking materials to ensure crisp lines and zero overspray.

• Operate and maintain a properly ventilated, filtered automotive paint booth.

• Select and apply appropriate primers (etching, epoxy, high-build) based on substrate and repair requirements.

• Apply guide coat and conduct final block sanding to ensure flatness, adhesion, and readiness for topcoat application.

• Apply multiple uniform coats of basecoat using HVLP or equivalent professional spray equipment.

• Achieve consistent coverage free of runs, sags, dry spray, or striping.

• Apply multi-layer clearcoat systems to ensure durability, gloss, UV protection, and chemical resistance.

• Ensure final finish meets OEM and DoD quality standards.

• Monitor and manage proper curing processes (air dry or bake cycle) in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

• Perform defect correction ("cut and buff") including wet sanding, compounding, and polishing to eliminate dust nibs, orange peel, or minor imperfections.

• Reassemble all components to original specifications.

• Conduct final inspection and detailing to deliver a service-ready vehicle.

• Properly handle and dispose of hazardous materials (solvents, paint waste, filters) in accordance with federal, state, local, and DoD environmental regulations.

• Maintain strict adherence to paint booth safety standards and hazardous material protocols.

• Utilize and maintain required PPE, including fit-tested fresh-air respirators.

• Maintain a secure work environment in compliance with DoD facility requirements.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

• Active T1 (Tier
  1) Security Clearance required. Must be eligible for and maintain a valid Common Access Card (CAC).

• Minimum five (5) years of documented journeyman-level automotive painting and refinishing experience.

• I-CAR or ASE certification in Painting and Refinishing strongly preferred.

• Color Expertise:
  Demonstrated expert-level knowledge of color theory, tinting, blending, and factory color matching techniques.

• Advanced proficiency in HVLP spray systems, paint booth operation, air systems, sanding equipment, and refinishing tools.

• Proven knowledge of hazardous material handling, PPE requirements, and OSHA/DoD safety compliance.

• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift components, and perform repetitive precision work in a controlled shop environment.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

• Experience working in a government, military, or secure facility environment.

• Experience refinishing specialty substrates or military fleet vehicles.

• Familiarity with OEM and military coating specifications.

Cherokee Nation Government Solutions (CNGS) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about…