Job Description

Job Summary
The Industrial Painter is responsible for the preparation, application, and inspection of protective coatings and paints on various surfaces and structures. This role is critical to ensuring the longevity, aesthetics, and corrosion resistance of our assets. A strong focus is placed on quality control, adherence to strict technical specifications, and documentation throughout the entire painting process.
Key Responsibilities
1. Surface Preparation (The Foundation of Quality)

• Perform and verify all surface preparation techniques to specifications, including:
• Power tool cleaning (e.g., grinding, sanding, needle gunning).
• Abrasive blasting (e.g., sandblasting, grit blasting) to achieve specified cleanliness standards (e.g., SSPC-SP 10/NACE No. 2 Near-White Metal Blast) and surface profile.
• Solvent cleaning and degreasing.
• Inspect surfaces post-preparation to ensure they are clean, dry, and properly profiled before primer application.
• Mask and protect adjacent areas to prevent overspray and damage.

2. Paint Mixing and Application

• Accurately mix multi-component coatings, primers, and topcoats according to manufacturer's technical data sheets (TDS), ensuring correct ratios, induction times, and pot life are strictly followed.
• Operate and maintain various application equipment, including:
• Conventional and airless spray systems.
• Plural-component spray equipment.
• HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) sprayers.
• brushes and rollers for touch-up and small areas.
• Apply coatings to achieve specified dry film thickness (DFT) as required by the project scope, using mil gauges to measure wet and dry film thickness.
• Maintain strict environmental control awareness (e.g., temperature, dew point, relative humidity) and ensure conditions are within specification for application and curing.

3. Quality Control & Inspection (The Core QCI Function)

• Perform in-process inspections at every stage: pre-blast, post-blast, post-primer, and post-topcoat.
• Use and calibrate inspection instruments:
• DFT Gauges: Measure and document dry film thickness.
• Surface Profile Gauges: Verify anchor pattern.
• Environmental Meters: Monitor ambient conditions, surface temperature, and dew point.
• Adhesion Testers: Perform tests as specified.
• Holiday Detectors: Use low/high voltage spark testers to detect pinholes and voids in linings and thick-film coatings.
• Identify and document defects such as runs, sags, orange peel, dry spray, contamination, and inadequate coverage.
• Perform necessary repairs and touch-ups to correct defects and meet quality standards.

4. Safety and Compliance

• Adhere to all company safety policies and procedures without exception.
• Work safely in confined spaces and at heights, utilizing appropriate fall protection.
• Properly wear, maintain, and use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including respirators, supplied air, and protective clothing.
• Handle, store, and dispose of paints, chemicals, and hazardous materials in accordance with OSHA, EPA, and company regulations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

5. Documentation

• Accurately complete daily reports, inspection reports, and quality control logs.
• Document mixing ratios, batch numbers, application parameters, and environmental conditions.

Qualifications and Experience

• Required:
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as an industrial painter in a relevant industry (e.g., structural steel, marine, oil & gas, manufacturing).
• Proven ability to read and interpret project specifications, technical data sheets, and safety data sheets (SDS).
• Demonstrable experience with industrial paint application and inspection equipment.
• Strong understanding of the cause and effect of coating failures.
• Highly Desirable (QCI Differentiators):
• Formal certifications from NACE (The Worldwide Corrosion Authority), SSPC (The Society for Protective Coatings), or AMPP (Association for Materials Protection and Performance), such as:
• NACE/SSPC/AMMP Certified Coatings Inspector (any level)
• NACE/SSPC/AMMP Protective Coatings Specialist
• Experience working under a formal Quality Management System (QMS).
• Familiarity with international standards (e.g., ISO 12944, IMO PSPC).

Skills and Competencies

• Meticulous Attention to Detail: A relentless focus on quality and precision.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to understand complex specifications and operate technical equipment.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify defects and determine the root cause and corrective action.
• Time Management: Ability to work efficiently without compromising quality or safety.
• Teamwork & Communication: Clear communication with supervisors, inspectors, and other team members.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, and kneel for extended periods.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Physical stamina to perform demanding work in various environmental conditions (heat, cold, humidity).

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage, commensurate with experience and certifications.
• Opportunities for overtime.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Paid training and opportunities for professional development and certification.

Skills Required