Job Description

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Position Summary

The Paint Department Team Lead is responsible for leading day-to-day paint operations to ensure high-quality finishes, on-time production, and a safe, efficient work environment. This role provides hands-on leadership, coordinates workflow, and serves as the primary point of contact between the paint team and production management.

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Key Responsibilities

Lead and support paint department employees, including painters, buffers, and graphics Assign daily work, balance workloads, and ensure production schedules are met Perform hands-on painting and finishing work as needed Ensure all paint work meets quality, appearance, and durability standards Monitor and enforce safety, PPE, and environmental compliance (OSHA, EPA, VOC, waste disposal) Train new employees and provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback Inspect completed work and address defects, rework, or process improvements Maintain paint booths, tools, and equipment; report maintenance needs Manage paint materials, inventory levels, and proper storage Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to resolve issues Support continuous improvement initiatives related to efficiency, quality, and cost
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Qualifications

3+ years of industrial or automotive painting experience (manufacturing environment preferred) Prior lead, senior, or supervisory experience strongly preferred Knowledge of surface preparation, priming, top coats, clear coats, and curing processes Familiarity with HVLP and airless spray equipment Strong understanding of safety and environmental regulations related to paint operations Ability to read work instructions, drawings, and specifications Strong communication and team leadership skills Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-driven environment
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Physical & Work Requirements

Ability to stand, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs Comfortable working in paint booths and wearing required PPE and respirators Ability to work extended hours or overtime as production demands require
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Preferred Experience

Experience painting large vehicles, emergency vehicles, or custom bodies Knowledge of color matching and finish correction Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement programs
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Benefits

Competitive pay based on experience Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Opportunities for growth and advancement

We are an equal opportunity employer and value a diverse workforce.