About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Fine Finish Painter to join our restoration team. This team is responsible for turning back time for wood doors and window sashes and transform them back to almost new condition. The process involves removing current paint, putty and glass to then repair, prime, glaze and paint. This position is based in the shop with minimal to no work at a client’s home.

We value craftsmanship, take pride in our work and the results we deliver to our clients.  We are looking for someone with experience who is willing to be a team leader, who is eager to learn, follows established systems and processes, and consistently delivers quality results within reasonable time expectations.

A day in the life may be hand removing paint, glazing and glass without breaking, then sanding prior to repairs by the woodshop and/ or priming. Other days may be glazing with linseed oil based putty to seal the glass in the sash or hand finish painting resulting in a high quality finish.

About Us

NOLA Wood Windows preserves the soul and historic fabric of New Orleans by restoring and building historic windows and doors and educating homeowners using sustainable practices and historic traditions minimizing environmental impact.

Responsibilities

• • Strip paint from wood surfaces using steam/ infrared heat
  • Remove glazing and original glass being careful to limit breakage
  • Glaze original or replacement glass; cut new glass when required
  • Prepare wood surfaces with proper sanding and patching
  • Apply stain using matching and blending techniques suited to wood species and desired finish, including tung oil applications
  • Applying primer and finish coats using the appropriate application method (brush, hand roller or airless sprayer) using both oil- and water-based products
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout each project
  • Lead a team of 1 to 3 restoration techs to deliver a quality result while meeting the production schedule. 

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate brings at least 2 years of fine finish painting experience, though we encourage applicants who are strong in some areas and still developing in others. Enthusiasm for the craft and a willingness to follow proven processes matter as much as your existing skill set.

• • 2+ years of experience in fine finish painting (required)
  • Proficiency with brush, roller, and airless spray application (required)
  • A strong eye for detail and commitment to quality (required)
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently or as part of a team (required)
  • Willingness to follow established systems and learn continuously (required)
  • Familiarity with historic preservation standards and materials (preferred)
  • Experience with premium paint products, including high-gloss and oil-based finishes (preferred)
  • Understanding of wood species and how stain absorbs and blends differently across grain types (preferred)
  • Experience managing employees and/ or projects to meet production schedules and quality standards (preferred)

Physical Requirements:

• • Able to climb a 6' ladder
  • Able to lift and manipulate objects of up to 50 lbs. for 50 feet
  • Able to stand on concrete floor for 8+ hours
  • Able to read, speak and understand English
  • Able to work in ambient/ non-temperature-controlled shop

Health & Safety Requirements:

• • Follow health & safety requirements on-site and in shop, including lead-safe equipment and hygiene practices
  • Submit to blood lead level testing, respirator fit testing and wearing P100 respirator and other required PPE
  • Comply with workplace laws & regulations (OSHA, EPA, etc.)
  • Zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol in the workplace, ability to pass a drug screen

Our work environment includes:

• Four-day work week (Monday - Thursday) 7:00am – 5:30pm
• Safe and supportive work environment
• 401k with company match after first 6 months
• Pay Increases after the 90-day probation period and as you demonstrate skill mastery while meeting quality and time standards
• Paid time off up to 100 hours per year accrued based on hours worked
• Annual end of year break from Christmas to New Years Day