Company Overview
[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]
Role Overview
We are hiring a Junior Lacquerer to join the production finishes team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. This entry-level role focuses on executing surface finishing and lacquer application processes on wood, metal, and composite assemblies under the guidance of senior finish technicians. The Junior Lacquerer will learn and apply industrial coating techniques, enforce quality standards, and contribute to continuous improvement of finishing throughput and defect reduction.
Responsibilities
- Prepare substrates for coating: cleaning, sanding, de-nibbing, tack-cloth, masking, and surface inspection according to standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Set up and operate spray equipment (HVLP, electrostatic, or air-atomizing systems) and pneumatic tools under supervision
- Mix lacquers, primers, sealers, stains, and clearcoats following technical data sheets and measured ratios; label and document batches
- Apply primers, seals, and multi-coat lacquer systems using consistent film builds and wet/dry times to meet specified gloss and hardness targets
- Monitor and log environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, airflow) that affect cure and finish quality; escalate deviations
- Perform in-process quality checks: adhesion tests, visual gloss and color comparison, cross-hatch, and tactile inspection; record defects and participate in root-cause analysis
- Execute light corrective tasks: wet sanding, buffing, polishing, and touch-up work using designated abrasives and compounds
- Maintain spray booths, filtration, and equipment cleanliness; follow scheduled preventive maintenance checklists
- Follow safety protocols for solvent handling, respiratory protection (e.g., NIOSH-approved respirators), flammable storage, and hazardous waste disposal
- Collaborate with senior finishers, production planners, and QA to meet daily throughput targets and reduce rework
- Document batch records, work orders, and inspection results in paper or digital production systems
Required and Preferred Qualifications
Required:
- 0–2 years of hands-on experience in coating, painting, or finishing environments, or completion of relevant vocational training
- Basic understanding of coating types (lacquer, polyurethane, waterborne finishes) and common surface preparation techniques
- Familiarity with measurement tools (wet film gauge, gloss meter) and basic inspection methods
- Ability to follow written SOPs, technical data sheets, and batch mixing ratios accurately
- Comfort working standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and using hand/power tools
- Willingness to wear required PPE and pass fit-testing for respirators
Preferred:
- Certificate or coursework in industrial coatings, woodworking finish, or paint application
- Experience with HVLP/electrostatic spray systems, spray booth operation, and booth maintenance
- Basic knowledge of color matching, tinting, and use of spectrophotometers
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing or 5S principles applied to finishing operations
- Forklift or material handling certification
Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies
- Practical operation of spray equipment: HVLP, electrostatic sprayers, air compressors, and spray guns
- Mixing and measuring tools: graduated cups, scales, viscosity cups, and filtering devices
- Surface preparation tools: orbital and hand sanders, abrasive selection, and compound application
- Inspection and measurement tools: gloss meter, wet/dry film gauges, micrometers, and calipers
- Basic digital literacy for logging production data into MES or ERP systems (tablet or desktop)
- Understanding of safety data sheets (SDS) and hazardous materials labeling (GHS)
Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
- Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to achieving repeatable finish quality
- Willingness to learn from senior technicians and implement feedback on technique and process
- Good verbal communication for handoffs and QA reporting; ability to read and interpret work orders and technical specifications
- Reliable time management and a track record of punctuality in production settings
- Positive, safety-first attitude and commitment to maintaining a clean, organized workspace
- Team-oriented mindset with openness to cross-train in adjacent manufacturing roles
Benefits and Perks
Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays; optional flexible scheduling for shift coverage
- Apprenticeship-style on-the-job training and progression plan to Technician II/Senior Lacquerer
- Certification reimbursement for finishing, HVAC, or safety courses
- 401(k) plan with employer match or equivalent retirement benefits
- Employee assistance program (EAP), wellness stipends, and safety bonus programs
- Paid training days and clear competency milestones tied to raises and promotions
Equal Opportunity Statement
[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to accessible hiring practices.
Location
This is an on-site, production-floor role located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. Candidates must be able to commute to the facility and work assigned shifts. Occasional overtime may be required to meet production demand.
Application Instructions
We encourage applicants to apply even if you do not meet every listed requirement. If you have related hands-on experience, vocational training, or strong mechanical aptitude, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your finishing experience, willingness to learn, and preferred shift. Applicants with transferable skills from painting, woodworking, automotive finishes, or other trades are invited to apply.