Painter Helper - Heavy Equipment

The Painter Helper supports the preparation and painting of Caterpillar (CAT) heavy equipment and components in a shop environment. This role focuses on surface preparation, coating application support, and maintaining high-quality finishes on construction and diesel machinery. This is an entry-level opportunity to develop skills in industrial and heavy equipment painting.

Starting wage will depend on experience and education. $21.96-$25.00/hourly

• Prepare CAT heavy equipment and components for painting, including cleaning, degreasing, sanding, grinding, and masking
• Assist in applying primers, base coats, and finish coatings to heavy machinery and parts
• Support paint mixing and material preparation in accordance with manufacturer specifications
• Operate and maintain painting and prep equipment such as spray guns, sandblasters, grinders, and pressure washers
• Assist with painting of large equipment including excavators, loaders, dozers, and engine components
• Ensure proper masking and protection of hydraulic lines, electrical components, and precision parts
• Maintain paint booths and work areas to meet cleanliness and safety standards
• Follow all OSHA and company safety procedures, including proper PPE and respirator use
• Assist in moving equipment and components using forklifts or hoists (if certified)
• Perform basic inspections to ensure coating quality, adhesion, and finish standards are met
• Properly handle and dispose of paint materials and hazardous waste per environmental regulations

Preferred Experience: 

• Experience painting or prepping heavy equipment, automotive, or industrial machinery
• Knowledge of CAT equipment or diesel systems
• Experience with sandblasting and surface prep methods
• Forklift certification or experience moving large components
• Familiarity with industrial coatings, epoxies, and urethanes

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and reaching
• Ability to work around large machinery and at heights when needed
• Ability to wear PPE including respirators and protective suits
• Tolerance for paint fumes, dust, noise, and varying temperatures

Work Environment

• Industrial shop environment working around large CAT heavy equipment
• Exposure to paint fumes, chemicals, loud equipment, and moving machinery
• Requires strict adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent experience)
• Ability to work in a shop environment with heavy equipment
• Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with tools
• Willingness to learn industrial painting techniques and coatings

Quinn is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/DV

Quinn Group, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, all applicable veteran status or disabled veteran status. Quinn Group, Inc. has established an Affirmative Action Plan to promote the employment and advancement of members of those covered groups identified by statute and regulations, including minorities, women, qualified disabled individuals and all Veterans and disabled Veterans  

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