Job Title:
Coatings Preparation Technician (Weapon Systems)
Company: CoAspire
Location: Manassas, VA
Created: 2026-05-09
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
CoAspire (is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation's warfighters. Our tight-knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work-life balance come first with a focus on professional growth at our new 27,000+ sq. ft. facility. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission-critical technology while enjoying Northern Virginia's vibrant community.Position: You will serve as a preparation specialist for our weapon systems production line. This hands-on role encompasses the receiving, cleaning, masking, sanding and jigging of manufactured parts in order to be ready for coating. You will support painting operations and drive process improvements in a controlled AS9100D/ISO-9001 environment.Responsibilities:Receive, dismantle and inspect assets Prepare asset components for coatings by cleaning surfaces, masking, applying pre-treatment, sanding and jigging parts Work with adhesives, coatings and chemicalsConduct coating thickness measurements (wet/dry film mil gauges), adhesion testing (tape/cross-hatch), conductivity/resistivity checks, and visual inspections post painting.Enforce and follow safety protocolsContribute to yield improvements and cost reductions in coating processesOperate company vehicles and forklift as neededRe-assemble and pack assets after coatings have curedMaintain a clean and safe working environment Qualifications:1-3 years of hands-on industrial, manufacturing or fabricating experienceFamiliarity with hand tools such as drills, saws, and sandersWillingness and aptitude to train in High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) spray applicationU.S. citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance (or the ability to obtain a clearance).Excellent attention to detail, safety mindset, and ability to work in a respirator and PPE for extended periods.Ability to lift heavy objects, greater than 50lbs.Desired Skills:Experience with the application of coatingsExperience in AS9100D/ITAR-controlled DoW contractor facilitiesExperience painting missile bodies, radomes, guidance sections, or loitering munitionsFamiliarity with low-VOC/waterborne coatings, automated/robotic paint systems, or powder coatingTrade school/apprenticeship completion or journeyman statusNACE, SSPC, or equivalent coatings certification (or willingness to obtain)Experience with masking techniques for precision aerospace componentsWhat We Offer:Beyond competitive pay, we offer:Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision401(k) with generous company match and immediate vestingPTO and Federal holidaysApply now! We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Let's build the future together. No agencies, please.Hiring #ManufacturingJobs #DefenseTech #ManassasVA #AerospaceCareers