Paint Line Operator (Manufacturing/Sheet Metal)

Location: Luzerne, PA 
Pay Rate: $18/hr
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Position Summary

The Paint Line Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring automated or manual paint line systems to apply protective and decorative coatings to fabricated metal products. This role plays a key part in ensuring consistent finish quality, efficient production flow, and adherence to safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Load, hang, and position metal parts on the paint line conveyor according to production schedules
• Unload finished parts after curing and inspect for quality, color consistency, and proper coverage
• Monitor paint line operation to ensure correct speed, spacing, and part orientation
• Prepare parts for painting by cleaning, masking, and conducting pre-coating inspections
• Perform visual and physical inspections to detect defects such as runs, sags, uneven coating, or contamination
• Ensure parts are properly labeled, organized, and routed to the next stage or packaging
• Assist with cleaning and minor maintenance of paint booths, hooks, racks, and related equipment
• Communicate any equipment issues, production delays, or quality concerns to supervisors promptly
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper handling of chemicals and required use of PPE

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required
• Prior experience in manufacturing, finishing, or production environments preferred
• Experience with paint lines, powder coating, or wet spray systems is a plus

Skills & Abilities:

• Basic understanding of industrial painting and coating processes
• Ability to read work orders, job travelers, and simple production drawings
• Strong attention to detail and quality control mindset
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume setting
• Knowledge of safe material handling and chemical safety practices
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Basic mechanical aptitude for operating and troubleshooting equipment

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and kneeling during the shift
• Continuous use of hands for handling parts, tools, and equipment
• Regular lifting up to 10 lbs, frequent lifting up to 25 lbs, and occasional lifting up to 50 lbs
• Visual acuity to inspect parts and read instructions or specifications
• Ability to work safely around moving mechanical equipment with strong situational awareness