Paint Line Operator

POSITION SUMARY: The Paint Line Powder Coat Operator is responsible for supporting all phases of the powder coating process, including part preparation, racking, coating support, inspection, and packaging. This role ensures parts are processed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with quality standards, work instructions, and safety requirements.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform paint line & powder coat operations
• Build, assemble, and tear down racks; hang and remove hooks; and load and unload bars and parts onto the paint line.
• Properly prepare parts for powder coating, including plugging, masking, or covering areas as required prior to entering the wash system.
• Assist with loading parts into and monitoring the wash system to ensure proper cleaning and pretreatment.
• Support powder coating operations by staging parts, assisting coaters as needed, and ensuring proper part flow through the line.
• Inspect products throughout the process in accordance with the Paint Procedures Manual, identifying defects such as poor coverage, contamination, runs, or damage.
• Perform basic touch-ups or rework as trained and directed.
• Monitor cure oven entry/exit to ensure parts are handled properly and coatings are not damaged.
• Pull move tickets and review work order travelers for accuracy and completeness.
• File work order travelers and maintain required documentation throughout the process.
• Count completed parts and print move or stock tickets as required.
• Build boxes and prepare packaging materials for finished parts.
• Place foam or other protective materials between parts requiring special packaging.
• Package finished products according to specifications to prevent damage during storage or shipment.
• Move completed parts to designated storage or shipping areas using appropriate material handling equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Management to support production needs.
• Participate in training related to powder coating processes, quality inspection, and safety procedures.
• Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and hazard-free work area at all times.
• Follow all company safety policies, PPE requirements, and paint line safety procedures.
• Promote safety awareness and immediately report unsafe conditions, quality issues, or equipment concerns.
• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with safety standards and operational guidelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to read and understand work orders, travelers, and basic instructions.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Capable of lifting, standing, bending, and performing repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Willingness to cross-train and assist in multiple areas of the paint line operation.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and finished products weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods during the work shift.
• Ability to use hands and arms to handle, grasp, and manipulate parts, tools, hooks, and packaging materials.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment that may include exposure to heat, noise, dust, and moving equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and respirators as required.
• Previous experience in powder coating, paint line operations, or manufacturing environments is preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with inspection standards, masking/plugs, and industrial packaging methods is a plus.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conform to all Wayne Metals, LLC environmental policies, programs and procedures.
• Conform to all State of Indiana laws and regulations.
• Report any environmental concerns to supervisor, Environmental Management Representative, or the Plant manager.