MSC Riding Gang Painter / Chipper

About the role

We are looking for an MSC Riding Gang Painter / Chipper to join Amentum’s team supporting a U.S. Navy program on Diego Garcia. The role involves preparing and protecting ship surfaces through chipping, scraping, sanding and coating work aboard MSC vessels.

Key responsibilities

• Perform surface preparation by removing rust, corrosion, old coatings and debris using hand tools, pneumatic tools, grinders and chipping hammers.
• Apply primers, paints and protective coatings, and conduct touch‑ups in line with MSC, Navy and industry standards.
• Support corrosion‑control activities, including priming and painting of ship structures, compartments and equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of tools, PPE and equipment; set up, stage, contain and clean work areas.
• Document material usage, logs and basic preservation records accurately.
• Communicate progress, safety concerns and issues to supervisors and ship leadership.

Required profile

• 1–3 years of experience in marine painting, chipping, preservation or corrosion control.
• High school diploma or equivalent; additional coatings or marine maintenance training is a plus.
• Valid passport with at least one year beyond hire date and ability to travel internationally.
• Ability to meet contract medical requirements and obtain necessary facility credentials.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain country‑specific visas.

Required skills

• Chipping, scraping and sanding of ship surfaces.
• Application of primers, paints and protective coatings.
• Use of hand tools, pneumatic tools, grinders and chipping hammers.
• Surface preparation and corrosion‑control techniques.
• Knowledge of Navy preservation standards and coating systems.
• Accurate documentation of paint and preservation activities.

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on a unique U.S. Navy program in an overseas location.
• Experience with MSC vessels and maritime preservation operations.
• Supportive safety‑focused work environment.