Powder Coat Operator

About Us South Bay Solutions is a high-precision machine shop, making parts for semiconductor, medical devices, and advanced tech hardware. Our tolerances are measured in microns, our equipment is top-of-the-line, and our team is passionate about quality craftsmanship. Position Summary South Bay Solutions is seeking an experienced Powder Coating Operator to launch our in-house powder coating department. This individual will perform all aspects of the powder coating process including: - Part preparation - Hanging - Powder application - Oven operation - Cure verification - Quality inspection The ideal candidate has experience coating high-value precision machined components where cosmetic appearance and coating performance are equally critical. Essential Responsibilities - Read work orders/job travelers and drawings and coating specifications. - Prepare machined components for coating. - Hang parts for optimal coverage and curing. - Set up and operate electrostatic powder coating equipment. - Select proper powder types. - Adjust: - Air pressure - Voltage - Powder flow - Gun settings - Maintain consistent film thickness. - Understand Faraday cage effect and coating challenges. - Operate curing oven. - Verify cure schedules. - Monitor: - Metal temperature - Oven profile - Cure time - Perform visual inspections. - Measure coating thickness. - Identify coating defects including: - Orange peel - Pinholes - Back ionization - Thin coverage - Heavy buildup - Maintain equipment. - Perform daily preventive maintenance. - Troubleshoot coating issues. - Maintain production records. Required Qualifications - 3+ years powder coating experience - Experience coating aluminum - Experience operating batch ovens - Knowledge of electrostatic application - Understanding of cure schedules - Ability to read drawings - Experience with quality inspections Preferred Qualifications - Wagner/Gema powder coating equipment - Lean Manufacturing - Forklift certification Technical Knowledge Candidate should understand: - Grounding - Electrostatic theory - Film thickness - Cure schedules - Metal temperature - Oven profiling - Hanging techniques - Rack design - Transfer efficiency - Powder reclaim - Surface contamination - Surface preparation - Pretreatment principles - Coating adhesion Physical Requirements - Lift up to 50 lbs - Frequent standing - Respirator use - Heat exposure - PPE compliance Schedule Day Shift | Monday – Friday | 6:00 AM – 2:35 PM Benefits - Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) - Life insurance policy - Safe Harbor 401(K) plan - 401(k) match - Paid time off (vacation/sick/holidays/floating holiday) - Referral program