Metallizer / Metallizer Apprentice

Position Overview: We are seeking a skilled, driven, and detail-oriented Metallizing Technician to join our team. As a Metallizing Technician, you will be responsible for the application of metallic coatings onto various surfaces using specialized metallizing equipment. Your expertise and attention to detail will contribute to the production of high-quality metalized products. This position requires a strong understanding of metallization processes (which can be taught by our team), excellent technical skills, and the ability to work with precision, independence, and problem solving skills.

Note - If this is something that sparks your interest, we'd love to teach you how to metallize and further your career. We are looking for either someone with experience in metallizing or who wants to learn.

Responsibilities:

• Perform metallizing processes: Prepare surfaces for metallization by cleaning, sand blasting, and applying appropriate coatings.
• Set up and operate metallizing equipment, ensuring proper calibration and adjustment.
• Apply metallic coatings using thermal spray/plasma spray techniques.
• Monitor and control parameters such as temperature, pressure, and feed rates to achieve desired coating thickness and quality.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.

Quality control and inspection:

• Conduct visual inspections of metalized surfaces to ensure adherence to specifications and quality standards.
• Use measuring instruments, such as thickness gauges and surface profilometers, to verify coating thickness and surface roughness.
• Identify defects, such as porosity, cracks, or uneven coatings, and take corrective actions as necessary.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to conduct sample testing and analysis.

Documentation and record-keeping:

• Maintain accurate records of metallizing activities, including process parameters, material usage, and inspection results.
• Generate reports detailing coating specifications, process deviations, and quality assurance findings.
• Adhere to relevant documentation standards and ensure compliance with quality management systems.

Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting:

• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of metallizing equipment to ensure its optimal functioning.
• Identify and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, coordinating with maintenance technicians or supervisors for repairs.
• Monitor inventory levels of consumables and assist in procurement activities.

Safety and compliance:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines while operating metallizing equipment and handling chemicals.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable regulations and industry best practices related to metallization processes.
• Participate in safety training programs and contribute to maintaining a safe working environment.

Non-Negotiable Expectations:

At Gateway Metallizing, Inc., we believe that a strong work ethic, reliability, and personal accountability are just as important as technical skills. Metallizing is specialized work that requires consistency, attention to detail, and a willingness to do what it takes to get the job done right. We can teach the right person how to metallize, but the following expectations are non-negotiable:

• Attendance & Reliability: Show up on time and ready to work every scheduled workday. Consistent attendance is our top priority. Our production schedule and team depend on every employee being present and dependable. Excessive unexcused absences, habitual tardiness, or a lack of communication regarding absences are not acceptable.
• Strong Work Ethic: Be willing to work hard, stay productive, and see tasks through to completion. We expect employees to take initiative, stay engaged, and contribute to the team's success without needing constant supervision.
• Willingness to Get Dirty: Metallizing is hands-on industrial work. Sandblasting, surface preparation, grinding, cleaning, coating application, and equipment maintenance can be dirty, physically demanding, and messy. Employees must be comfortable working in an industrial environment and willing to perform all aspects of the job.
• Safety First: Follow all safety procedures, wear required personal protective equipment, and take responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. No job is worth risking your safety or the safety of others.
• Quality & Attention to Detail: Take pride in producing quality work. Follow specifications, inspect your work, and never knowingly send out a part that does not meet our standards. When something isn't right, speak up and help find a solution.
• Accountability & Communication: Take ownership of your responsibilities, communicate problems promptly, and be honest about mistakes. We value employees who admit when something goes wrong, learn from it, and work toward a solution.
• Teamwork & Willingness to Learn: Be coachable, accept feedback, help coworkers when needed, and be willing to learn new processes. We don't expect every applicant to know how to metallize on day one, but we do expect a willingness to learn and improve.

Our Philosophy: We can teach you the technical skills required to become a great Metallizing Technician. What we cannot teach is the desire to show up, work hard, take pride in your work, and be someone your team can count on. Those qualities must come from you.

About us:

Gateway Metallizing, Inc. is a family-owned and operated small business located at S. 38th Street, St. Louis, MO 63116. We are machine shop with a range of capabilities and focused on our customers' needs. We'd love for you to join our team!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person