Experienced Powder Coat Painter - Defense Components & Industrial Finishes

TST Fab & Machine LLC; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee referral bonus

Company-paid medical insurance (employ

Dental & vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Flexible schedule options

Growth opportunities

Safety-focused, veteran-owned

Job summary

TST Fab & Machine LLC in Norfolk, VA is seeking an Experienced Powder Coat Painter to apply powder and wet coatings to mission-critical metal components for defense and industrial customers. You will prep, coat, and finish parts in a safety-driven environment, ensuring MIL-SPEC and shipyard coating standards are met.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of coating experience, proficiency in both powder and wet spray, and the ability to read technical drawings.

Qualifications

• Requires High School Diploma or GED.
• 3+ years painting/coating in manufacturing or fabrication.
• Proficiency in powder coating and wet spray applications.
• Able to read and interpret technical drawings and coating specs.

Responsibilities

• Apply powder and wet spray coatings to metal parts using proper techniques.
• Prep surfaces: clean, mask, prime, and sandblast as needed.
• Perform quality checks to ensure adherence to specifications.
• Operate warehouse machinery and finishing equipment safely.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow safety protocols and company procedures.

Skills

Powder coating

Wet spray

Surface prep

Reading drawings

Safety procedures

Quality checks

Detail oriented

Equipment maintenance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Powder coating booth

Spray guns

Ovens

Job description

Experienced Powder Coat Painter for High-Spec Defense and Industrial Projects | Norfolk, VA

Apply durable, high-quality powder coatings to mission-critical metal components for defense and industrial customers. Ensure every finish meetscontract standards,MIL-SPEC requirements,andshipyard coating specifications—in a fast-paced, detail-oriented, and safety-driven environmentsupporting mission-critical defense and industrial applicationswhere precision matters.

Job Type:

Full-Time

Pay:

$20–$30 per hour (based on experience)

Location:

Norfolk Plant

Schedule Options | Available Shifts:

• Weekend Shift: Friday - Sunday | 3x12
• Company Paid 4-hour differential to complete 40

About TST Fab & Machine

TST Fab & Machine is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business based in Norfolk, Virginia, specializing in high-spec metal fabrication and machining for the defense, maritime, and industrial sectors. We are a mission-driven team known for precision, reliability, and responsiveness.

Our powder coating team plays a vital role in delivering compliant, performance-ready finishes that meet strict contract standards for complex, high-tolerance parts. As we continue to grow, we’re seeking skilled professionals who take pride in their craft and thrive in a fast-paced, quality-focused environment.

Position Summary

We’re looking for a highly skilled, detail-oriented Powder Coat Painter to join our finishing department. This role is responsible for prepping, coating, and finishing a variety of metal components in accordance with MIL-SPEC, contract standards, and shipyard coating requirements.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on coating experience, a strong understanding of industrial finishing processes, and a commitment to safety, precision, and compliance. You’ll deliver durable, spec-compliant finishes in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment—where your craftsmanship directly contributes to mission-critical performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply powder and wet spray coatings to metal parts using proper techniques and procedures
• Prep surfaces: clean, mask, prime, and sandblast parts as needed
• Perform quality checks to ensure adherence to specifications
• Operate warehouse machinery and finishing equipment safely and efficiently
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment
• Follow all safety protocols and company procedures

Required Skills & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED
• 3+ years of painting / coating experience in a manufacturing or fabrication setting
• Proficiency in both powder coating and wet spray applications
• Ability to prep metal surfaces for coating
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and coating specifications
• Familiarity with industrial paints, coating materials, and safety procedures/environmental guidelines
• Experience with paint equipment maintenance and repair (booths, guns, ovens)
• Strong attention to detail and ability to match coatings to spec (color vision)
• Reliable time management and communication skills

Why Join Our Team

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Flexible Schedule Options: 4x10 Day, 4x10 Evening, 4x10 Night, and Weekend Shifts
• $500–$1000 Employee Referral Bonus
• Company-paid medical insurance (employee only)
• Dental & vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Opportunities for growth and advancement
• Supportive, safety-focused, veteran-owned workplace

TST Fab & Machine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, welcoming all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

Join a company where your skills are trusted, your standards are respected, and your impact is real.