We are seeking a detail-oriented and reliable Powder Coat Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end powder coating process, from prepping raw parts to inspecting the final finish. You will balance manual tasks—like hanging, cleaning, and precision touch-up spraying—with the technical operation of our automated paint line. Your eye for detail will ensure our products meet strict quality standards for uniform film thickness and durability.
Key Responsibilities1. Pre-Production & Parts Preparation
- Manual Handling: Manually lift, rack, and hang parts onto the conveyor line in preparation for the coating process.
- Surface Preparation: Clean, degrease, and treat parts to remove rust, oil, and debris, ensuring optimal paint adhesion.
- Masking: Apply high-temperature tape or plugs to areas of parts that must remain free of paint based on blueprints or job specs.
2. Paint Line Operation & Spraying
- Automated System Operation: Set up, monitor, and operate the automated powder coat paint line and curing ovens.
- Manual Touch-Up Spraying: Use a manual powder spray gun to coat obscure shapes, deep recesses, and hard-to-reach angles, ensuring a uniform film thickness.
- Color Change Management: Load powder paint into the system hopper and execute efficient color changeover processes, including thoroughly cleaning guns, hoses, and booths to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Quality Assurance & Maintenance
- Quality Inspection: Conduct visual and physical inspections of finished parts to detect defects such as runs, sags, light coverage, or contamination.
- Thickness Testing: Use mil gauges to verify that film thickness meets engineering specifications.
- Routine Maintenance: Perform daily and weekly preventative maintenance on spray guns, booths, filters, and conveyor systems to ensure peak operational efficiency.
- Housekeeping: Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area (5S standards).
Role Requirements & QualificationsExperience & Skills (Will Train)
Preferred Experience:
- Experience: 1–3 years of experience in industrial powder coating or liquid spray painting (preferred).
- Technical Knack: Familiarity with automated paint line systems, manual electrostatic spray guns, and curing oven controls.
- Detail-Oriented: Ability to read work orders/blueprints and discern subtle differences in paint thickness and finish quality.
- Math & Measurement: Basic math skills for tracking inventory and reading mil gauges.
Physical Demands
- Ability to stand, walk, and reach for extended periods (8+ hour shifts).
- Capability to lift and maneuver parts weighing up to 50 lbs repeatedly.
- Comfort working in an industrial environment that can fluctuate in temperature (near curing ovens).
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.50 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
