Operator Paint (Fixed-Term Contract) –SAAT

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Operator Paint (Fixed-Term Contract) – South African Airways Technical (SAA Technical)

Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa
Company:
Division: Operations – Backshop
Job Type: Fixed-Term Contract
Job Grade: TS2-1
Reporting To: Manager: Back Shop
Positions Available: 18
Closing Date: 04 August 2026
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 (Matric) or NQF Level 4

About the Role

South African Airways Technical (SAA Technical) is seeking 18 Operator Paint employees to support aircraft maintenance operations at its Kempton Park facility. The successful candidates will assist with the preparation of aircraft and aircraft components before paint stripping and painting, ensuring all work is completed in accordance with aviation safety, quality, and maintenance standards.

This position is well suited to physically fit individuals who enjoy practical work and are interested in building a career in the aviation maintenance industry.

Key Responsibilities

Aircraft Preparation

  • Prepare aircraft and aircraft parts before painting or paint stripping.
  • Sand aircraft surfaces using hand tools and pneumatic orbital sanders.
  • Mask aircraft sections and components before painting.
  • Remove masking tape after painting is completed.
  • Wash and clean aircraft and aircraft components.
  • Perform final surface preparation to ensure quality paint finishes.

Workshop Support

  • Assist paint technicians with preparation and painting activities.
  • Remove old sealant and clean lap joints.
  • Assist with the application and removal of masking materials.
  • Support the movement of equipment, spare parts, and materials.
  • Ensure aircraft parts are protected and never placed directly on the floor without protective material.

Administration

  • Acknowledge receipt of work.
  • Monitor work-in-progress throughout the painting process.
  • Complete labour reports and other required maintenance documentation accurately.
  • Sign off completed tasks according to company procedures.

Housekeeping & Safety

  • Maintain a clean and organised workshop and hangar.
  • Clean tools, machinery, and workstations after use.
  • Follow all laid-down maintenance procedures and aviation regulations.
  • Handle paints, thinners, solvents, and hazardous chemicals safely.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
  • Observe workplace health and safety regulations.

Additional Duties

  • Perform any reasonable task assigned by the Paint Technician, Shift Leader, Production Leader, or Senior Manager.
  • Work at various heights using approved safety equipment when required.
  • Assist other maintenance teams when operationally necessary.

Minimum Requirements

  • Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent (NQF Level 4).
  • Basic computer literacy.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to read and follow technical instructions.
  • Physically fit and capable of performing manual tasks.
  • Willingness to work in an industrial workshop environment.
  • Comfortable working with chemicals, paints, and solvents.
  • Ability to work at heights.
  • Ability to work overtime or shifts when required.

Knowledge & Skills

Successful candidates should have:

  • Knowledge of the SAA Technical Organisation.
  • Understanding of hazardous materials and chemical handling procedures.
  • Good interpersonal and teamwork skills.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to follow strict aviation maintenance procedures.
  • Time management and organisational skills.
  • Problem-solving ability.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet production deadlines.

Desired Competencies

  • Safety-conscious mindset.
  • Strong work ethic.
  • Reliable and punctual.
  • Ability to learn quickly.
  • Positive attitude.
  • Good manual dexterity.
  • Quality-focused approach.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

Employees should expect to:

  • Work inside aircraft hangars and workshops.
  • Stand for extended periods.
  • Lift and move equipment and aircraft components where required.
  • Use sanding machines, hand tools, and pneumatic equipment.
  • Wear protective clothing including masks, gloves, goggles, hearing protection, and safety footwear.
  • Work around paint fumes, thinners, solvents, and other industrial chemicals while following safety procedures.

Career Growth

Working as an Operator Paint at SAA Technical provides valuable exposure to the aviation maintenance industry. Employees gain practical experience in aircraft surface preparation, aviation quality standards, workshop operations, and industrial safety, creating opportunities to progress into skilled aircraft painting, maintenance, or technical support roles.

Why Join SAA Technical?

  • Opportunity to work in the aviation industry.
  • Gain specialised aircraft maintenance experience.
  • Work alongside experienced aviation professionals.
  • Build practical technical skills.
  • Exposure to internationally recognised aviation maintenance standards.
  • Collaborative and safety-focused working environment.
Apply Here