Powder Coating Manager

Position Summary

Rustica is seeking an experienced and motivated Powder Coating Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of our powder coating department. This position is responsible for managing department personnel, production schedules, quality standards, safety, inventory, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives. While remaining knowledgeable and engaged in the powder coating process, the Powder Coating Manager's primary focus is ensuring the department operates efficiently, produces exceptional quality, and consistently meets production goals.

The ideal candidate will be a strong leader who takes ownership of department performance, develops team members, drives accountability, and continuously seeks opportunities to improve quality, productivity, and operational excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities

Department Leadership & Management

• Lead, manage, and develop powder coating department personnel.
• Establish clear performance expectations and hold team members accountable to quality, productivity, and safety standards.
• Recruit, train, coach, and develop department employees.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback and development.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented culture focused on accountability, communication, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with production, operations, and leadership teams to ensure departmental alignment and success.

Production & Quality Management

• Oversee daily department operations to ensure production schedules and customer deadlines are met.
• Ensure all products meet Rustica's quality standards prior to packaging and shipment.
• Monitor production metrics, throughput, rework, and quality performance.
• Troubleshoot production and quality issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain department procedures and quality standards.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Identify and implement opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, throughput, and workflow.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the department.
• Monitor labor utilization and department productivity.
• Establish and maintain best practices for powder coating operations.
• Support company-wide operational improvement efforts.

Equipment, Inventory & Maintenance

• Oversee powder inventory and ensure materials are properly identified, stored, and utilized.
• Ensure spray booths, conveyor systems, ovens, and powder coating equipment are properly maintained.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance and equipment repairs.
• Assist in evaluating equipment needs and capital improvement opportunities.

Safety & 5S

• Ensure compliance with all company safety policies and procedures.
• Promote and maintain strong 5S practices throughout the department.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Participate in safety training, inspections, and corrective action efforts.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of powder coating, finishing, or related manufacturing experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of management or supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of powder coating techniques, equipment, processes, and quality standards.
• Proven ability to lead teams, drive accountability, and improve performance.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing production schedules and meeting operational goals.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Proficient with basic computer systems and production reporting.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk throughout the workday.
• Ability to regularly bend, stoop, squat, push, and pull materials and equipment.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including exposure to heat, dust, and production equipment.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Full-Time Schedule (Monday–Thursday, 4/10 workweek)

Rustica is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected classification.