Pioneer Metal Finishing is the leading surface engineering company in North America. For over 75 years, we’ve delivered consistent, quality metal finishing solutions for mission-critical applications. Our advanced surface modification technologies and scalable execution improve the performance of mission-critical products and enhance brand value for companies in the healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and industrial markets. We encourage you to learn more about opportunities with Pioneer Metal Finishing and join our team today!

Job Summary

Skilled wet coat painter responsible for applying high‑quality wet coatings (primer/topcoat) to automotive/industrial/metal substrates using spray systems. Emphasizes precision mixing, consistent finish quality, strict adherence to safety and environmental protocols, and effective teamwork to meet production and quality standards.

Essential Job Duties / Responsibilities

• Apply wet coats (primer, base, clear, sealers) by spray gun to achieve uniform, defect‑free finishes per work orders and process specifications.
• Accurately mix paints, reducers, and additives to specified ratios using scales/measuring devices; maintain mixing records and batch traceability.
• Prepare surfaces (cleaning, masking, sanding, tack wiping) to ensure optimal adhesion and finish quality.
• Monitor coating application parameters (viscosity, pressure, atomization, film thickness) and adjust techniques to meet quality tolerances.
• Perform routine color matching and blending under guidance; flag and document color or finish deviations.
• Inspect work in process and finished parts for runs, sags, orange peel, fish eyes, inclusions, and other defects; perform touch‑ups or rework as required.
• Maintain spray booths, guns, filters, and prep areas in clean, organized condition; follow preventive maintenance schedules.
• Follow and enforce all safety, PPE, and respiratory protection requirements; maintain awareness of MSDS/SDS, flammability controls, and ventilation standards.
• Comply with environmental regulations (waste handling, solvent recovery, VOC limits) and internal housekeeping practices.
• Collaborate with production, quality, and finishing teams to meet schedules, resolve coating issues, and drive continuous improvement.
• Document production outputs, material usage, and quality checks; participate in shift handovers and team meetings.

Work Environment

• Work in spray booth/finish shop with PPE and respiratory protection required.
• Exposure to solvents, paints, and odors; proper controls and ventilation in place.
• May require standing, bending, and repetitive motion; occasional overtime.

Experience and Education

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification in industrial coatings/painting preferred.
• 2+ years’ experience in wet coat spray painting in manufacturing, automotive, marine, or industrial environments.
• Proven ability to accurately mix coatings and maintain consistent color/finish.
• Certification in respirator use and fit testing, paint mixing, or color matching preferred.
• Hands‑on experience with HVLP/airless spray systems, spray booths, and basic preventive maintenance required.
• Familiarity with coating properties, drying/curing processes, and common defects and corrections required.
• Experience with digital mixing scales and ERP/production tracking systems preferred.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high‑quality finishes.
• Ability to read work orders, mixing formulas, and technical specifications.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills; able to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.
• Physically able to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in controlled temperature/ventilation environments.
• Willingness to work shift schedules as required.

We offer the following benefits to All Employees immediately upon hire:

• Next-Day Pay: Don’t wait for payday; access your daily pay the next day!
• Quarterly Incentive Program: Paid based on hours worked and business results
• Paid company holidays
• Shift Differentials for 2^nd and 3^rd shift
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program
• On-the-Job Training and Advancement Opportunities
• Employee Recognition and Rewards Program
• Fun Recognition Events and more!

Full-Time Employees (30 + hours per week) may participate in the following benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Eligibility begins on the 1^stof the month, following your start date)
• Paid Time Off: 80 Hours earned in your first year
• Access to Garner Incentive or a Health Savings Account up to $3,000 annually
• 401(k) plan with a company match of up to 2% of bi-weekly contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Company-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Additional benefits for employee purchase: life insurance, critical illness, voluntary accident, and accidental death & dismemberment
• LiveHealth Online, virtual doctor visits