Powder Coating Lead

Position Summary

Rustica is seeking an experienced and motivated Powder Coating Lead to oversee the daily operations of our powder coating department. This is a working lead role responsible for performing powder coating work while also leading department scheduling, quality, productivity, training, and continuous improvement efforts. The ideal candidate will take ownership of the department, ensure products meet Rustica's quality standards, and help drive efficiency and accountability throughout the powder coating process.

Duties and Responsibilities

Production & Quality

• Operate electrostatic powder coating equipment and spray booths according to specifications.
• Apply powder coatings to metal products while maintaining quality and thickness standards.
• Ensure all products meet Rustica's quality expectations prior to packaging and shipment.
• Troubleshoot coating defects and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Rework and touch up products as necessary to meet quality standards.

Department Leadership

• Coordinate daily workflow and priorities to meet production schedules and customer deadlines.
• Train, mentor, and support powder coating team members.
• Monitor productivity and provide coaching to improve performance and efficiency.
• Promote accountability, teamwork, and a positive work environment.
• Communicate department needs, production issues, and improvement opportunities to management.

Process Improvement & Maintenance

• Identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, throughput, and organization within the department.
• Maintain powder inventory and ensure powders are identified, stored, and returned correctly.
• Ensure spray booths, conveyor systems, and powder coating equipment are properly maintained.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance and equipment repairs as needed.
• Assist with developing and documenting department processes and best practices.

Safety & Housekeeping

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Enforce all company safety policies and procedures.
• Promote and maintain strong 5S practices throughout the department.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of powder coating or related finishing experience.
• Prior leadership, supervisory, or team lead experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of powder coating techniques, equipment, and quality standards.
• Ability to identify and solve production and quality issues.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and drive results.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on quality, efficiency, and accountability.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods 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 and production equipment.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Full-Time Schedule (Monday-Thursday 4/10 work days)

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.