What are the responsibilities and job description for the Gelcoat Specialist position at Explore Industries?
Gelcoat Specialist
Location: Marion, South Carolina Manufacturing Center
Join the Explore Industries Team!
At Explore Industries, we’re more than just a leader in fiberglass swimming pool design and manufacturing—we’re a family dedicated to respect, integrity, and innovation. We believe in empowering every employee to bring their unique ideas to the table and making a positive impact on people’s lives by delivering backyard joy to families across the country.
We are looking for an experienced Gelcoat Specialist to join our team at our Marion, South Carolina Manufacturing Center. In this hands-on role, you’ll play a key part in creating high-quality fiberglass pools by expertly applying gelcoat to molds—helping produce the world-class finishes that make our pools stand out.
About the Role
As a Gelcoater, you will be responsible for the precise application of specified gelcoat colors to swimming pool molds using a spray gun. You will work the night shift (Sunday – Thursday) as part of a collaborative team focused on quality, consistency, and safety while working with resins, gelcoat, and related materials.
What You’ll Do
- Execute the daily production schedule by applying proper gelcoat in accordance with part specifications (mil thickness, uniform spray pattern, catalyzation ratio, pressure, etc.)
- Stage molds as needed — clean, wax, check, and prepare them to ensure best possible condition before spraying
- Perform routine maintenance on gelcoat equipment, including servicing spray guns, pumps, hoses, and related tools
- Roll out or address any imperfections to achieve a smooth, high-quality gelcoat finish
- Proactively identify and address quality concerns during the gelcoat process
- Handle chemicals (resin, gelcoat, catalyst) safely and dispose of waste properly
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area after each shift
- Work collaboratively with team members and cross-train in other areas as needed
- Support overall production goals with punctuality, dependability, and a strong safety focus
What We’re Looking For
Education and Experience
- Experience with gel coating, auto body repair, or fiberglass work (strongly preferred)
- Ability to pass a pulmonary function evaluation (PFT) and respirator fit testing
- Ability to lift objects weighing up to 45 pounds
- Comfort with repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and shoulder/upper arm movements
- Strong safety focus and attention to detail
- Experience communicating effectively in a team environment
- Punctuality, dependability, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship detail
Skills and Qualifications:
- Proven ability to apply gelcoat with consistent thickness and finish
- Flexibility and willingness to cross-train within the department
- Commitment to producing great products that create lasting memories for families
Why Explore Industries?
Compensation
- Hourly Range: $19.25 – $21.00, depending on experience, with regular compensation increases and performance-based raises (up to 25% in the first year) as job-related skills are developed.
- Actual compensation will be based on experience and current job-related skills.
Benefits & Additional Compensation
Eligible employees receive:
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- 401(k) with company match
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
- Optional life and disability insurance
- Potential access to other incentives or compensation programs based on role and company policy.
Ready to dive in? If you’re a detail-oriented team player with gelcoating or fiberglass experience who takes pride in quality craftsmanship, this is a great opportunity to grow your skills while helping deliver backyard joy to families across the country!
Learn more about us at exploreindustries.com.
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Salary : $19 - $21