Reports To: Finish Supervisor
Position Summary
The Industrial Painter is responsible for preparing, coating, and finishing steel tank components to meet company and customer specifications. This role ensures high-quality surface preparation and coating application using industrial spray systems while maintaining safety, efficiency, and consistent production standards in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Surface Preparation
-
Prepare steel surfaces for coating using sanding, and cleaning methods and sometimes grinding
-
Remove debris, rust, oil, and contaminants to ensure proper coating adhesion
-
Verify surface readiness in accordance with quality and coating specifications
Coating Application
-
Apply primers, epoxy, polyurethane, and other industrial coatings using airless and conventional spray systems
-
Mix coatings accurately according to manufacturer specifications and required ratios
-
Ensure even coverage, thickness, and finish quality across all parts
QualityInspection
-
Inspect painted surfaces for defects, coverage, and compliance with specifications
-
Use gauges and tools to verify coating thickness when required
-
Identify and correct deficiencies (runs, dry spray, contamination, etc.)
EquipmentWork Area Maintenance
-
Clean, maintain, and troubleshoot spray equipment and tools
-
Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area
-
Ensure proper handling and storage of coatings and materials
SafetyCompliance
-
Follow all company safety policies and OSHA guidelines
-
Properly use PPE, including respirators, eye protection, and protective clothing
-
Handle chemicals and coatings safely, including labeling and disposal requirements
Team Collaboration
-
Work closely with the production and fabrication teams to meet schedules
-
Communicate issues impacting quality, efficiency, or safety
-
Support continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications and Requirements
EducationBasic Skills
-
High school diploma or GED required
-
Basic math skills, including:
-
Addition/subtraction
-
Reading decimals
-
Calculating and mixing ratios
-
Ability to read and interpret:
-
Work orders
-
Blueprints or shop drawings
-
Quality control charts
Experience
-
3+ years of industrial painting experience preferred (manufacturing or heavy equipment environment preferred)
-
Experience with:
-
Airless and conventional spray systems
-
Epoxy and polyurethane coatings
-
Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification preferred
Physical Requirements
-
Ability to stand and work on feet for extended periods (entire shift)
-
Ability to lift up to 60 lbs regularly
-
Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
-
Ability to:
-
Climb, stoop, and bend
-
Work at heights or in varying plant and outdoor conditions
-
Sufficient visual acuity to inspect surfaces and ensure coating quality
Work Environment
-
Manufacturing plant and outdoor yard environment
-
Exposure to:
-
Paint fumes, dust, and industrial materials
-
Noise, temperature changes, and weather conditions
-
Use of PPE required at all times
Preferred (Nice-to-Have) Qualifications
-
Experience in tank, structural steel, or heavy fabrication painting
-
Knowledge of surface prep standards (e.g., SSPC/NACE)
-
Experience with coating thickness gauges or inspection tools
