Material Prep Technician - 1st Shift

APX Company; Saint Thomas (Franklin County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Dental

401K

Vacation & holiday pay

Job summary

APX Company is seeking a Material Prep Technician to prepare aluminum and steel parts for powder coating, focusing on grinding, sanding, and cleaning to ensure optimal coating adhesion and a high-quality finish.

You will work with fabrication, paint, and quality control teams to meet prep standards, maintain equipment, and support 5S cleanliness in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience with grinders and hand tools is valued, and a strong commitment to safety is essential.

Qualifications

• Experience using grinders, sanders, and hand tools.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Able to follow instructions and work with team members.
• Willingness to learn surface prep techniques for powder coating.
• Physically capable of lifting and handling parts safely.
• Commitment to workplace safety and PPE usage.

Responsibilities

• Use grinders, sanders, and tools to prep aluminum and mild steel parts.
• Inspect for surface imperfections and correct as needed.
• Clean parts using air hoses, wash bays, solvents, and cloths.
• Coordinate with fabrication, paint, and QC teams to meet prep standards.
• Maintain and clean grinding equipment and tools regularly.
• Adhere to safety procedures and wear PPE at all times.
• Assist with material handling and staging for painting/processing.
• Keep work area organized following 5S standards.

Skills

Grinders

Sanders

Hand tools

Attention to detail

Team communication

PPE safety

Tools

Grinding equipment

Air hoses

Solvents

Job description

APX is an industry leader in metal manufacturing of enclosures, custom fabrication, machining and industrial coatings. We are recognized for our commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of professionals, we are poised for growth and seeking individuals that want to be a part of telling our story.

JOB DESCRIPTION

APX is seeking a Material Prep Technician responsible for preparing aluminum and steel parts for powder coating. This role focuses on grinding, sanding, and cleaning surfaces to ensure optimal coating adhesion and a professional finish. The position is critical in maintaining APX’s high standards for product quality and appearance.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Use handheld grinders, sanders, and other tools to smooth welds, remove sharp edges, and prep surfaces on aluminum and mild steel parts.
• Inspect materials for surface imperfections, burrs, or contaminants and correct as needed.
• Clean parts using air hoses, wash bays, cloths, and solvents to remove dust, oil, or debris.
• Communicate with fabrication, paint, and quality control teams to ensure proper prep standards are met.
• Maintain and clean grinding equipment and tools regularly.
• Adhere to company safety procedures and wear proper PPE at all times.
• Assist with general material handling and staging of parts for painting or further processing.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area following 5S standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience or comfort using grinders, sanders, and hand tools.
• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship.
• Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with team members.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn proper surface prep techniques for powder coating.
• Physical capability to handle, lift, and clean parts safely.
• Commitment to workplace safety and proper use of PPE.

BENEFIT OFFERINGS

• Competitive Compensation Package including healthcare, dental and supplementary insurance, 401K, vacation and holiday pay.