Paint Engineer/Project Manager

Gastonia, NC

Full Time

Experienced

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Paint Engineer/Project Manager to oversee and manage the paint processes in the metal manufacturing industry. This role combines engineering expertise in surface coating technology with project management skills to ensure that all painting processes meet quality standards, timelines, and budget constraints. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in paint application for metal products, a deep understanding of coatings, and experience in managing complex projects in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management:
- Lead and manage painting projects from initiation through completion, ensuring adherence to scope, timelines, and budget.
- Develop and maintain project plans, track progress, and report regularly to senior management on the status of key milestones.
- Coordinate with other departments (e.g., engineering, production, quality control, and procurement) to ensure smooth project execution.
- Provide regular updates to clients, addressing concerns and managing expectations throughout the project lifecycle.
Paint Process Development:
- Design and optimize paint processes for metal components and products, ensuring high-quality finishes and compliance with industry standards.
- Develop and recommend improvements to coating systems, including surface preparation, priming, painting, and curing processes.
- Select and specify suitable coatings (e.g., powder coating, wet paint) for different metal substrates.
- Implement new technologies or techniques to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
Quality Assurance:
- Ensure the painting process meets all safety, environmental, and quality standards, including customer specifications.
- Conduct regular inspections and audits of painting processes, equipment, and products to ensure consistent quality.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to paint defects, application problems, or equipment failures.
- Monitor environmental conditions (e.g., humidity, temperature) during the painting process to ensure optimal results.
Team Leadership & Training:
- Lead a team of paint technicians and operators, providing guidance and direction to ensure high-quality paint applications.
- Train and mentor staff on best practices for painting, coating application, safety protocols, and equipment use.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the team to adopt new techniques and process enhancements.
Compliance & Safety:
- Ensure all painting operations comply with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Maintain records of chemical usage, waste disposal, and other compliance-related activities.
- Promote safe work practices in all painting activities, minimizing hazards associated with chemicals, equipment, and processes.
Vendor & Supply Chain Management:
- Work closely with suppliers to source materials and equipment for the painting process, ensuring quality and cost-efficiency.
- Manage inventory of paint materials, ensuring proper storage and handling to avoid contamination or waste.
- Coordinate the procurement of paints, coatings, and related materials to meet production schedules.
Cost Management & Budgeting:
- Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and staying within cost parameters.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through process optimization, material selection, and supplier negotiations.
Client Interaction & Customer Support:
- Act as the primary contact for clients concerning the painting aspects of projects.
- Address customer concerns or complaints regarding paint quality and application, providing solutions as needed.
- Provide technical support to clients on painting specifications, processes, and performance.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Additional certifications in project management or coatings technology (e.g., SSPC, NACE) are a plus.
Experience:
- Strong experience with coating technologies and processes specific to metal manufacturing, including powder coating, electrostatic coating, and wet painting.
- Proven track record of managing painting projects in a manufacturing or industrial setting, with experience in budgeting, scheduling, and team leadership.
Skills & Knowledge:
- In-depth understanding of metal surface preparation, coating materials, and paint application technologies.
- Knowledge of quality control methods, testing, and defect analysis in paint processes.
- Strong project management skills, including planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting.
- Proficient in the use of paint equipment, spray booths, ovens, and curing systems.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with safety regulations and environmental compliance related to painting and coatings.

Working Conditions:

Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to chemicals, dust, and noise.
Ability to work flexible hours or weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines.

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