Industrial Painter

Reports To: Finish SupervisorPosition SummaryThe 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 ResponsibilitiesSurface PreparationPrepare steel surfaces for coating using sanding, and cleaning methods and sometimes grindingRemove debris, rust, oil, and contaminants to ensure proper coating adhesionVerify surface readiness in accordance with quality and coating specificationsCoating ApplicationApply primers, epoxy, polyurethane, and other industrial coatings using airless and conventional spray systemsMix coatings accurately according to manufacturer specifications and required ratiosEnsure even coverage, thickness, and finish quality across all partsQuality & InspectionInspect painted surfaces for defects, coverage, and compliance with specificationsUse gauges and tools to verify coating thickness when requiredIdentify and correct deficiencies (runs, dry spray, contamination, etc.)Equipment & Work Area MaintenanceClean, maintain, and troubleshoot spray equipment and toolsMaintain an organized, clean, and safe work areaEnsure proper handling and storage of coatings and materialsSafety & ComplianceFollow all company safety policies and OSHA guidelinesProperly use PPE, including respirators, eye protection, and protective clothingHandle chemicals and coatings safely, including labeling and disposal requirementsTeam CollaborationWork closely with the production and fabrication teams to meet schedulesCommunicate issues impacting quality, efficiency, or safetySupport continuous improvement initiativesQualifications and RequirementsEducation & Basic SkillsHigh school diploma or GED requiredBasic math skills, including:Addition/subtractionReading decimalsCalculating and mixing ratiosAbility to read and interpret:Work ordersBlueprints or shop drawingsQuality control chartsExperience3+ years of industrial painting experience preferred (manufacturing or heavy equipment environment preferred)Experience with:Airless and conventional spray systemsEpoxy and polyurethane coatingsForklift certification or ability to obtain certification preferredPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand and work on feet for extended periods (entire shift)Ability to lift up to 60 lbs regularlyGood hand-eye coordination and manual dexterityAbility to:Climb, stoop, and bendWork at heights or in varying plant and outdoor conditionsSufficient visual acuity to inspect surfaces and ensure coating qualityWork EnvironmentManufacturing plant and outdoor yard environmentExposure to:Paint fumes, dust, and industrial materialsNoise, temperature changes, and weather conditionsUse of PPE required at all timesPreferred (Nice-to-Have) QualificationsExperience in tank, structural steel, or heavy fabrication paintingKnowledge of surface prep standards (e.g., SSPC/NACE)Experience with coating thickness gauges or inspection tools