1st Shift Powder Coat Painter

Location: Gastonia, NC 28056
Pay Rate: Starting at $17.00 per hour, depending on experience (DOE)
Job Type: Full-Time
Shift: 1st Shift
Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Industry: Metal Manufacturing

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, reliable, and detail-oriented 1st Shift Powder Coat Painter to join a manufacturing team in Gastonia, NC.

This position is responsible for preparing, coating, and finishing metal components using electrostatic powder coating equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience with industrial powder coating processes, surface preparation, coating application, and quality inspection.

We are looking for a dependable team player who takes pride in producing high-quality finished products, follows safety procedures, and works efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare metal surfaces for powder coating by cleaning, sanding, grinding, and masking components as needed.
• Operate manual electrostatic powder coating spray guns to apply consistent and even coatings to metal products.
• Properly adjust powder coating equipment, including spray settings and application techniques.
• Load, hang, position, and unload metal parts on coating racks, hooks, and production lines.
• Monitor powder coating coverage, thickness, and overall finish quality.
• Operate and monitor industrial curing ovens according to established procedures.
• Inspect finished products for defects, including uneven coverage, contamination, discoloration, and incomplete coating.
• Perform touch-ups, rework, and corrective actions when necessary.
• Follow production orders, work instructions, and quality specifications.
• Clean and maintain powder coating spray guns, equipment, booths, and work areas.
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper handling of coating materials and required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Work closely with production and quality control teams to meet daily production goals.
• Perform additional manufacturing and production duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least 1 year of experience in powder coating, industrial painting, or a similar metal finishing environment preferred.
• Experience using electrostatic powder coating spray guns.
• Knowledge of metal surface preparation, masking, coating application, and curing processes.
• Ability to identify and correct common powder coating defects.
• Experience working in a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Basic understanding of industrial equipment operation and maintenance.
• Ability to read and follow production instructions and quality specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical Requirements

Candidates must be able to perform the following essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Frequently bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
• Lift, carry, push, or pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with team assistance or mechanical equipment when appropriate.
• Safely handle and position metal components of various sizes.
• Work around production machinery, coating equipment, and industrial curing ovens.
• Perform repetitive production tasks while maintaining accuracy and quality.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced metal manufacturing facility.
• Exposure to manufacturing equipment, machinery, noise, dust, and varying temperatures.
• Regular handling of metal components and industrial coating materials.
• Required PPE must be worn according to workplace safety guidelines.
• Employees must follow established safety and housekeeping procedures.

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