Job Title

*Powder Coating & Cerakote Specialist | Industrial Metal Finishing**Location:* On-Site – Industrial Fabrication Shop*Job Type:* Full-Time*Pay:* $26–$42 per hour (based on experience)Job OverviewWe are hiring a *Senior Powder Coating & Cerakote Specialist* to join our *industrial metal fabrication and coating operation*. This position is ideal for an experienced *powder coater, Cerakote applicator, or industrial metal finisher*with a strong background in *surface preparation, powder coating systems, Cerakote application, and quality control*.This is *not an entry-level powder coating job*. Candidates must have hands-on experience in a *production or industrial coating environment* and be able to work independently to meet quality and deadline requirements.ResponsibilitiesSurface Preparation & Metal Finishing* Perform mechanical and chemical surface preparation for powder coating and Cerakote* Sandblasting using aluminum oxide, garnet, or steel grit* Degreasing, phosphating, and corrosion prevention* Masking threads, mating surfaces, and tight tolerances* Prep and coating of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and mixed metal assembliesPowder Coating (Industrial / Production)* Set up and operate powder coating equipment and spray guns* Adjust gun settings (KV, microamps, air flow) for part geometry* Hang parts for optimal powder coverage and production efficiency* Apply consistent powder coating finishes on flat panels, tubing, and welded assemblies* Understand Faraday cage effect, edge build, and film thickness control* Read and follow powder coating Technical Data Sheets (TDS)* Operate curing ovens and manage cure schedules* Perform color changes and prevent cross-contaminationCerakote Application* Prepare substrates specifically for Cerakote coatings* Mix, reduce, strain, and spray Cerakote using HVLP equipment* Apply Cerakote H-Series, E-Series, and V-Series coatings* Control film thickness and coating consistency* Apply specialty Cerakote finishes including multi-layer, two-tone, and decorative effects* Understand air-cure vs oven-cure Cerakote processes* Troubleshoot coating defects including adhesion issues, color variation, and finish defectsQuality Control & Production Support* Inspect coated parts before, during, and after application* Identify root causes of coating defects and rework efficiently* Maintain clean and organized coating and prep areas* Follow job travelers, work orders, and production schedules* Communicate with fabrication, welding, and shop management teams* Follow all safety and PPE requirementsRequired Qualifications* *5+ years of professional powder coating experience** Experience as a *Cerakote applicator or industrial coating technician** Background in *metal fabrication, metal finishing, or industrial coatings** Ability to work independently in a production environment* Strong understanding of coating systems, surface prep, and quality standardsNot a Fit for This Role* Entry-level or trainee powder coaters* Hobby, garage, or non-production coating experience* Applicants without professional Cerakote or industrial powder coating experiencePreferred Qualifications* Cerakote Certification* Experience in custom fabrication or welding shops* Experience coating large parts or architectural metal* Ability to assist with training or mentoring junior powder coatersPay & Benefits* *Hourly Pay:* $24–$45 per hour (based on experience)* Overtime available* Full-time, stable employment* Opportunity for advancement as the shop grows* Work on custom, industrial, and specialty coating projects*How to Apply*Please include:* Submit application* Years of powder coating experience* *Years Cerakote application experience** Certifications (if applicable)* Qualified candidates may be required to complete a *hands-on skills test* during the interview process.Pay: $50,000.00 - $100,000.00 per yearExperience:* Coating: 3 years (Required)* Industrial painting: 3 years (Required)* Meal preparation: 3 years (Required)Work Location: In person