Technical Service Representative, Automotive Coatings

Position: Technical Service Representative, Automotive
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Location: Charleston, SC/Remote
Salary: $65,000-$95,000 DOE

Position Overview
The Technical Service Representative serves as a key technical liaison between the company and its automotive customers, providing expert support on product applications, performance, and implementation. This role partners closely with customers, internal teams, and laboratories to ensure optimal product performance, troubleshoot issues, and drive successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical acumen in coatings and application systems, a customer-focused mindset, and the ability to manage application-based projects from concept through completion.

Key Responsibilities
Customer & Market Support

• Provide technical support to customers for the implementation and optimization of products and application processes
• Serve as a trusted advisor to customers, resolving application challenges and identifying improvement opportunities
• Conduct product presentations and demonstrations tailored to customer processes and requirements
• Identify customer needs, market trends, and new business opportunities to support growth initiatives
• Monitor industry developments in coatings, application methods, and equipment technologies
• Perform competitive analysis and evaluate new product positioning and marketability

Technical & Application Expertise

• Lead and document application trials, testing, and performance evaluations
• Collaborate with laboratory teams to optimize product formulations and application parameters
• Develop application guidelines, best practices, and “application windows” for customers
• Troubleshoot customer complaints and technical issues, providing timely and effective solutions
• Advise customers on application equipment, including pumps, nozzles, and spray systems
• Deliver hands-on training to customer personnel (e.g., painters, engineers) on application techniques and pretreatment processes

Project & Process Management

• Manage application-focused projects, ensuring alignment with customer expectations and company goals
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, including reports, test results, and sample records
• Plan and facilitate technical workshops with customers and internal teams
• Ensure all reporting and documentation meet internal standards and compliance requirements

Professional Development & Representation

• Continuously develop technical expertise and stay current with industry advancements
• Represent the company professionally in all customer interactions
• Maintain strong communication with cross-functional teams

Financial & Operational Accountability

• Contribute to strategies that support long-term profitability and customer retention
• Optimize travel planning and resource utilization for efficiency

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel frequently (domestic and international) via car, air, or rail
• Flexibility to support evolving business needs and take on additional responsibilities as required
• Compliance with all company policies and safety regulations

Qualifications
Education & Experience

• High School Diploma required (technical degree or certification preferred)
• Experience in coatings, automotive applications, or industrial processes strongly preferred

Technical Skills

• Working knowledge of application systems (e.g., spray nozzles, piston pumps, diaphragm pumps)
• Understanding of coatings technologies and application techniques
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Core Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently

Regulatory

• Must complete hazardous waste training within 6 months of hire and annually thereafter in accordance with South Carolina regulations
• Ability to meet travel requirements, including international travel and applicable entry requirements

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours)
• Frequent walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Ability to safely operate paint mixing and application equipment
• Exposure to fumes, chemicals, and industrial environments