Demo

Thermal Spray Technician

Sadler Machine Company, Inc.
Rapids, IA Full Time
POSTED ON 10/20/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/17/2027

About us

Sadler Machine is an ISO certified, full-service machine shop that specializes in a job shop (manual) machining. Sadler Machine also specializes in large CNC turning and milling of short run production and /or prototype parts. other in-house departments include fabrication of weldments, CNC burntable, blanchard grinding, stress relieving and on-site machining. Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa Sadler Machine operates out of a 60,000sq. ft. climate controlled building.

Our work environment includes:

  • Wellness programs
  • Safe work environment

Thermal Spray Technician, CNC Lathe and HVOF equipment

Position Overview: The HVOF (High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel) Thermal Spray Technician is responsible for performing thermal spray processes using HVOF equipment in a large CNC lathe to apply protective coatings on components and surfaces. These coatings are designed to enhance the durability, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of the treated materials. The technician will work with the shift team lead, engineer and quality department to ensure the efficient and accurate application of coatings according to industry standards and client specifications.

Key Responsibilities:

Operating a large CNC lathe with a Fanuc control.

Thermal Spray Operation: Load, Operate and maintain HVOF thermal spray equipment, including HVOF guns, spray systems, and associated machinery. Ensure that the equipment is calibrated, configured, and ready for coating applications.

Preparing Surfaces: Properly prepare surfaces to be coated by undercutting, cleaning, grit blasting, and ensuring the surface is free from contaminants, ensuring optimal adhesion of the coating.

Material Preparation: Handle and prepare thermal spray materials, including powders and wires, to be fed into the HVOF gun for the coating process.

Coating Application: Skillfully apply HVOF thermal spray coatings on various substrates while adhering to precise parameters such as spray distance, angle, and traverse speed to achieve the desired coating thickness and quality.

Quality Control: Inspect the coated surfaces for defects, uniformity, and adhesion. Use appropriate testing methods and equipment to assess the coating's thickness and quality, ensuring it meets industry standards and client specifications.

Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve equipment issues or deviations in the coating process promptly. Collaborate with maintenance personnel or engineers to address technical problems and maintain efficient operations.

Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment for oneself and team members. Handle hazardous materials and follow proper safety procedures during all phases of the thermal spray process.

Documentation: Maintain accurate records of coating procedures, material consumption, inspection results, and any other relevant data required for documentation and quality control purposes.

Collaboration: Work closely with engineers, team leads, and other team members to understand project requirements, timelines, and priorities. Collaborate effectively to meet project goals and ensure the successful completion of tasks.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Regularly clean and maintain HVOF thermal spray equipment to keep it in optimal working condition. Schedule and participate in routine maintenance activities to ensure long-term equipment reliability.

Qualifications and Skills:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical certifications or vocational training in thermal spray technology is preferred.
  • Previous experience as a Thermal Spray Technician, preferably with HVOF equipment, is preferred.
  • Familiarity with thermal spray materials, including powders and their applications in coating processes.
  • Strong understanding of surface preparation techniques, including undercutting, cleaning and grit blasting.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions related to thermal spray coatings.
  • Knowledge of safety procedures and practices when handling thermal spray equipment and hazardous materials.
  • Detail-oriented with a keen eye for quality control and defect detection.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to HVOF thermal spray operations.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills to work effectively with colleagues and project stakeholders.
  • Physical ability to lift and handle equipment and materials, as well as work in various positions and environments during coating applications.

Skills:

- Experience with lean manufacturing principles is preferred
- Proficient in using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
- Familiarity with warehouse operations, materials handling, and inventory management
- Basic math skills for measuring and calculating dimensions
- Ability to operate cranes, weld, and perform airless paint spraying is a plus

We are seeking a detail-oriented individual with strong mechanical aptitude to join our team. As a Thermal Spray Technician Machine Operator, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient operation of our manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for setting up machines, monitoring their performance, and maintaining quality standards. The ideal candidate will have experience in lean manufacturing practices, possess good problem-solving skills, and be able to work effectively in a team environment.

If you are looking for an opportunity to contribute to a dynamic manufacturing environment and have the necessary skills and qualifications, we invite you to apply for the position of Thermal Spray Technition Machine Operator. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages.

To apply, please submit your resume highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Relocation assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Experience:

  • hvof or hvaf: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift availability:

  • Day Shift (Preferred)
  • Night Shift (Preferred)
  • Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

  • Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

  • Cedar Rapids, IA 52404: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35 - $40

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