Full Time Powder Coating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description:Work Local in South San Diego – Skip the Commute

Stop spending your life on the I-5 and I-805. AP Precision Metals is seeking dependable Painters - Powder Coat Operators who live in Chula Vista, Eastlake, Otay Mesa, or nearby South County communities and want a stable manufacturing career close to home.

Whether you're an experienced powder coater or have manufacturing experience and are eager to learn, this is an opportunity to join a growing company with modern equipment, long-term customers, and opportunities for advancement.

About AP Precision Metals, Inc.

AP Precision Metals, Inc. is San Diego's leading commercial metal fabricator, specializing in simple to complex assemblies for many of Southern California's largest OEMs. Founded in 1999, AP Precision has grown consistently for over 25 years through investment in advanced manufacturing equipment, operational stability, and employee development.

Our 40,000 sq. ft. South San Diego facility includes state-of-the-art laser cutting, CNC forming, welding, powder coating, machining, hardware insertion, assembly, and shipping operations serving commercial, transportation, architectural, and defense-related industries.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Powder Coat Operator to support our powder coating department. This position is responsible for preparing, coating, curing, inspecting, and handling metal parts while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and productivity.

Successful candidates take pride in producing high-quality finishes, maintaining an organized work area, and working efficiently as part of a manufacturing team.

Job DescriptionPowder Coating Operations

• Hang, mask, prepare, and powder coat metal parts according to work instructions and customer specifications.
• Operate powder coating equipment, spray guns, curing ovens, and related finishing equipment.
• Verify proper coating coverage, finish quality, and cure requirements.
• Remove, inspect, and package finished parts for the next production operation.
• Maintain clean racks, hooks, and powder coating equipment.

Material Handling

• Move parts, racks, and materials throughout the powder coating department.
• Stage production jobs according to production schedules.
• Assist with loading and unloading curing racks and production fixtures.
• Maintain organized work areas and material flow.

Quality & Safety

• Perform visual inspections to ensure coating quality meets customer and company standards.
• Report coating defects, equipment issues, or production concerns to supervisors.
• Follow work instructions, quality standards, and production schedules.
• Maintain clean work areas in accordance with company housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Follow all safety procedures and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Team Support

• Assist other production departments as workload requires.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and fellow production employees.

Compensation & GrowthCompensation

$19.00 – $24 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Career Growth

AP Precision Metals believes in promoting from within. Successful employees have opportunities to advance into positions including:

• Powder Coat Lead
• Production Lead
• Quality Inspector
• Shipping & Logistics
• Manufacturing Supervisor

We provide on-the-job training and encourage employees to develop new manufacturing skills throughout their careers.

Work Environment

• Full-time, in-person position at our South San Diego (Otay Mesa) manufacturing facility.
• Fast-paced production environment with modern powder coating equipment and manufacturing technology.
• Regular interaction with fabrication, welding, assembly, shipping, and quality departments.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position
• 1st Shift: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
• Overtime available based on production requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• IRA retirement plan
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Stable, year-round employment with a growing manufacturing company
• On-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement

Requirements:Experience & Skills

• Previous powder coating, painting, manufacturing, or industrial finishing experience is preferred but not required.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication or manufacturing is a plus.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools and manufacturing equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow written and verbal work instructions.
• Forklift experience is a plus but not required.

Personal Qualifications

• Reliable, punctual, and dependable.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain productivity in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to regularly lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance or appropriate lifting equipment.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the manufacturing facility for extended periods during scheduled shifts.
• Ability to perform repetitive production tasks including hanging, masking, powder coating, unloading, and inspection of metal parts.
• Ability to safely wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, protective clothing, and respirators where required.
• Ability to safely work around industrial powder coating equipment, curing ovens, forklifts, and moving production materials.
• Ability to work in a typical manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, industrial noise, dust, and exposure to finishing materials.