Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.
GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Help us shape the future of aerospace
At GKN Aerospace, we don’t just build aircraft components — we help power some of the most advanced civil and military aircraft in the world. From the F-35 Lightning II and Apache attack helicopter to the NH90 and MQ-9 Reaper drone, our landing gear systems are designed to perform under the most demanding conditions. And you can be part of that innovation.
We are currently looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Painter to join our Surface Treatment team in Papendrecht, supporting both our Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) operations and our New Build (production) programs.
What you’ll do:
As a Painter, you will contribute to the performance and safety of advanced aircraft by applying coatings and protective finishes to critical landing gear components. You’ll work on both newly manufactured systems and systems undergoing repair or overhaul — each requiring the same high standards and attention to detail.
Your responsibilities will include:
1. Preparing and cleaning components (e.g., degreasing, sanding, masking)
2. Applying primers, topcoats, and corrosion-resistant coatings in line with aerospace specifications
3. Using both manual and automated spray systems
4. Performing visual inspections and quality checks throughout the process
5. Documenting all activities according to aviation standards and internal procedures
6. Working closely with colleagues in surface treatment, plating, inspection, and assembly
What you’ll bring:
7. Experience in industrial, automotive, or aerospace painting (new build or repair)
8. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
9. Familiarity with safety, environmental, and quality standards
10. Ability to follow technical work instructions (in English or Dutch)
11. A hands-on, collaborative, and proactive approach
What we offer:
12. Work on high-profile aircraft programs like the F-35, NH90, Apache
13. A high-tech, international work environment with focus on innovation
14. Opportunities to develop your skills in both new production and MRO
15. A strong culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement
16. Competitive salary and attractive benefits, including:
17. Shift allowance
18. 27 vacation days + 13 ADV days (full-time)
19. Travel allowance and pension plan
Ready to take your craftsmanship to new heights?
Apply now and become part of a global team driving the future of aerospace.
We’ll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working
Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we’ve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It’s a culture that won us ‘The Best Workplace Culture Award’. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.
We’re also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.