Job Summary
The Powder Coating Inspector / Packer is responsible for inspecting powder coated parts after the coating and curing processes to ensure they meet quality, appearance, and customer specifications. This role also involves properly handling, protecting, and packing finished parts for shipment or downstream operations. Attention to detail, proper handling of finished surfaces, and consistent attendance are critical for success in this position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Visually inspect powder coated parts for defects such as:
- Runs, sags, orange peel, pinholes, or fisheyes
- Thin coverage, poor adhesion, or bare spots
- Color mismatch, gloss variation, or surface contamination
- Verify coating meets work order and customer specifications, including color, finish, and coverage.
- Confirm parts have been properly cured before handling or packing.
- Identify, segregate, and report non conforming parts for rework or scrap.
- Handle finished parts carefully to prevent scratches, dents, or coating damage.
- Pack finished parts using approved materials (foam, paper, dividers, wraps) per packing instructions.
- Label boxes, racks, or pallets accurately based on job traveler or shipping documentation.
- Maintain accurate inspection and production records as required.
- Keep inspection and packing areas clean and organized in accordance with 5S standards.
- Follow all safety, quality, and powder coat handling procedures.
- Communicate quality issues, recurring defects, or equipment concerns to supervision.
- Support production flow by assisting in other finishing or packing tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
Required:
- Ability to visually identify coating quality issues.
- Ability to read and follow job travelers, work instructions, and packing requirements.
- Basic math skills (counting, matching quantities to paperwork).
- Strong attention to detail and quality awareness.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Previous experience in powder coating inspection, finishing, or manufacturing.
- Familiarity with powder coat defects and handling requirements.
- Experience working with racks, conveyors, or batch coating operations.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 50 lbs (with or without assistance).
- Repetitive hand and arm motions.
- Ability to bend, reach, and handle parts of varying sizes.
- Visual acuity sufficient to inspect surfaces for cosmetic and coating defects.
Work Environment
- Manufacturing environment involving powder coating and finishing operations.
- Exposure to noise, moving equipment, and coated metal parts.
- Use of required PPE such as gloves, safety glasses, and protective wear.
- Temperature variations depending on oven and shop conditions.
Attendance and Performance Expectations
- Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.
- Must adhere to assigned schedules, breaks, and production demands.
- Performance is evaluated based on inspection accuracy, packing quality, productivity, safety, and attendance.