Paint Lead

Position Overview:

Our Paint Line Lead is responsible for leading daily powder coat operations while actively performing paint department duties as needed. This role supports the setup, operation, and maintenance of powder coating equipment while providing direction, training, and support to team members. The Paint Department Lead ensures safety, quality, productivity, and efficient workflow are maintained throughout the shift while supporting continuous improvement and meeting production goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities are, but not limited to:

• Lead daily powder coating operations, setting priorities and ensuring work flows efficiently through the paint process.
• Select and prepare powder coating materials according to color specifications, loading and calibrating guns for application.
• Set up and operate the GEMA automated powder coating booth, spray guns, and associated equipment.
• Manage color changes, booth cleaning, and equipment setup to ensure consistent, high-quality finishes.
• Monitor automatic spray guns to ensure even and accurate powder coating; perform manual touch-ups as needed.
• Inspect parts during and after coating to ensure proper adhesion, defect-free surfaces, and compliance with quality standards.
• Own paint quality for the department by coaching team members on quality expectations and preventing defects.
• Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and adjustments to powder coating equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
• Verify equipment operates safely and properly; escalate unresolved equipment issues to maintenance or the Department Manager.
• Monitor powder inventory levels and notify supervision when replenishment is needed.
• Enforce safety guidelines, ensuring all team members wear required PPE and follow safe work practices.
• Train and support new and existing employees on powder coat processes, safety, and quality expectations.
• Balance labor and workflow during the shift to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
• Communicate production status, issues, and recovery plans to the team and Department Manager.
• Collaborate with upstream and downstream departments to support product flow and meet production deadlines.
• Provide support to other departments as needed to help meet overall production goals.
• Identify and assist with process improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and safety.
• Escalate safety, quality, or production issues to the Department Manager when they cannot be corrected within the shift.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of powder coating processes, equipment, and materials.
• Ability to lead by example and positively influence team performance.
• Strong verbal communication and basic written communication skills.
• Ability to follow directions, work independently, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong attention to quality, accuracy, and safety.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and dependable attendance.
• Ability to problem-solve and make real-time adjustments during production.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous powder coat paint experience is preferred but not required.
• Previous lead experience is highly preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking 8-10 hours per day
• Must be able to bend, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to wear required PPE

Current Openings for Paint Lead Jobs at Schaefer's Electrical Enclosures