Painter - Subject Matter Expert

Abilene, TX

Full Time

Experienced

Essential Functions

Summary:
The Paint Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a technical leadership role responsible for defining, optimizing, and sustaining paint processes across the organization. This individual serves as the primary authority on coatings, surface preparation, application techniques, and quality standards. The Paint SME partners closely with production, engineering, quality, and leadership teams to ensure painting operations are efficient, scalable, safe, and consistently meet the highest quality expectations. This role reports directly to the Paint Supervisor (or applicable leadership role).

Accountabilities:

Serve as the technical authority on all paint systems, coatings, and application methodologies.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve paint processes, standards, and best practices.
Troubleshoot complex paint defects (e.g., blisters, streaks, adhesion failures) and lead root cause analysis efforts.
Optimize HVLP spray application processes, surface preparation, and curing techniques.
Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all paint-related activities.
Collaborate with production and leadership teams to align paint processes with manufacturing goals and schedules.
Evaluate and recommend paint materials, equipment, and technologies to improve efficiency and quality.
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements related to coatings and painting operations.
Lead quality initiatives, including development and verification of inspection checklists and acceptance criteria.
Provide technical training, coaching, and mentorship to Painter Leads and team members.
Partner with vendors and suppliers to ensure material consistency, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
Support new product introductions and process changes related to painting and finishing.
Conduct testing and validation of new coatings, equipment, and process improvements.
Identify opportunities for cost savings, waste reduction, and efficiency improvements.
Maintain documentation and technical records related to paint systems and processes.
Support cross-functional problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Paint Supervisor

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Attributes

Safety First: Champions safe handling of coatings, equipment, and environmental compliance.
Have Humanity: Shares knowledge freely and develops others’ technical capabilities.
Be Transparent: Clearly communicates technical standards, expectations, and process changes.
Drive Innovation: Continuously improves paint systems, materials, and application techniques.
Be Resilient: Effectively resolves complex technical challenges under pressure.
Always Reliable: Ensures consistent, repeatable, high-quality outcomes.
Grit: Demonstrates deep ownership and craftsmanship in solving technical problems.

Required Knowledge/Experience:

7+ years of industrial or commercial painting experience, with advanced technical expertise.
Deep knowledge of coatings, paint chemistries, surface preparation, and application techniques (including HVLP systems).
Strong experience troubleshooting coating defects and implementing corrective/preventive actions.
Experience developing SOPs, work instructions, and process documentation.
Background working in a manufacturing, production, or metal fabrication environment preferred.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root cause analysis skills.
Effective communication and ability to influence cross-functional teams.
Knowledge of safety regulations, including OSHA and environmental compliance standards.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive projects to completion.
Physical ability to support on-floor activities including lifting up to 50 lbs and working with equipment as needed.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to process excellence.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Manufacturing environment with exposure to paint fumes, chemicals, and noise.
Combination of hands-on production floor support and technical/office work.
Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying environmental conditions.
Mobility: Requires standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods as needed.
Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands for inspection, testing, and equipment interaction.
Lifting: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and push/pull up to 100 lbs (OSHA standards apply).
Visual and Auditory Requirements: Must be able to observe fine finish details and communicate effectively in a production environment.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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