Painter/Plasterer at The Henry Ford

The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization, an internationally recognized cultural destination, and a one-of-a-kind workplace. The Henry Ford provides unique educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories, and lives from America's traditions of ingenuity, resourcefulness and innovation. Our purpose is to inspire people to learn from these traditions to help shape a better future. Our team is inspired daily by one another as well as the authentic stories of innovation that we share across our four venues. We want you to be part of this legacy and take it forward and that aligns with our core values of being Curious, Authentic, and Passionate.

The Facilities team is seeking a full-time Painter with plaster experience.  In this role, you will be responsible for general maintenance, exhibit, historic and non-historic painting and finishing using a variety of techniques. This includes preparation and finish work, exterior and interior painting, plaster repair and finishing, staining and varnishing, specialty finishes, wallpapering, and related maintenance tasks. This position requires demonstrated skill and experience in plastering, patching, and repair to support both routine and project-based work.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Prepares, cleans, and repairs surfaces for painting, plastering, or finishing to ensure proper adhesion and durability
• Performs plaster repair including patching cracks, resurfacing walls, skimming, and applying smooth or textured finishes for consistent appearance
• Mixes and selects appropriate paints, stains, varnishes, and coatings for color match, finish, and surface type
• Applies paint to interior and exterior surfaces using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment for uniform coverage
• Erects, positions, and safely works from scaffolding, ladders, and lifts to reach elevated areas
• Prepares and finishes new drywall including taping, mudding, sanding, and surface smoothing
• Applies stains, varnishes, sealers, and protective finishes to wood and other surfaces to preserve and enhance appearance
• Installs, cuts, and smooths wallpaper and wall coverings with proper alignment and finish
• Glazes, caulks, and seals windows and related surfaces to maintain integrity and finish quality
• Creates and applies specialty finishes, faux textures, and decorative treatments as needed
• Performs general maintenance painting and finishing tasks in support of Facilities repair and upkeep projects
• Maintains tools, equipment, and work areas in safe, clean, and orderly condition
• Contributes to effective team management by collaborating, problem solving, and supporting cross-department needs

Your Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid drivers' license
• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in residential and/or commercial painting
• Demonstrated experience and proficiency in plaster repair, patching, and finishing

SPECIAL SKILLS

• General knowledge of painting, plastering, and wallpapering techniques and tools
• Ability to mix, match, and apply paints, stains, plaster compounds, and specialty finishes
• Ability to operate motorized equipment, lifts, and other machinery required for painting and plastering
• Strong attention to detail and ability to deliver high-quality finish work

PHYSICAL/MENTAL/ENVIRONMENTAL

Physical: sitting, walking, work on scaffolding, boom lifts, scissor lifts and ladders: Frequently.
Lifting, carrying, and pushing: Occasional, up to 50 lbs; Unless noted here, other physical requirements are minimal or not applicable
Mental: Problem solving, trouble shooting, evaluating and prioritizing
Environment: Working indoors and outside, various weather conditions and temperatures

This job description is subject to change at any time.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is the policy of The Henry Ford to prohibit discrimination in any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer) based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability. Marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to all of our employees, donors and volunteers to ensure that they are treated without discrimination.