Painter/Sprayer/Coater

Wagner; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Wagner in Milwaukee is seeking an experienced painter to apply industrial coatings to metal components per job specs. You will prepare surfaces, set up and operate painting equipment, and ensure quality standards are met while maintaining a safe, organized work area.

The role requires at least 6 years of painting experience in an industrial setting, strong English communication, and ability to work independently with limited supervision. A hands-on, safety-focused approach is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 6 years of painting experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Familiarity with mechanical and technical concepts is essential.
• Strong verbal and written communication in English.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate painting equipment independently with minimal supervision.
• Prepare surfaces for painting by degreasing, removing scale, and inspecting for defects.
• Coordinate material handling to support WIP and downstream steps.
• Perform preventive maintenance on machines, equipment, and materials.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area using 5S principles.
• Adhere to safety standards and escalate quality issues when identified.

Skills

English communication

Basic math

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Overhead cranes

Forklifts

Hand trucks

Aerial lifts

Painting machinery

Rulers / measuring tools

Micrometers

Tape measures

Height gauges

Job description

Summary

Under the direction of the next level Supervisor, the Painter is responsible for preparing and applying industrial coatings to metal components and assemblies according to job specifications and quality standards. This role plays a key part in ensuring finished products meet visual, functional, and safety expectations and are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Set up and operate painting equipment independently with minimal supervision.
• Develop and adhere to work instructions of moderate complexity, incorporating process improvement suggestions as needed.
• Store materials in designated cabinets in compliance with safety policies, particularly regarding flammable materials.
• Prepare surfaces for painting by degreasing, removing scale, and inspecting for defects.
• Properly label components prior to painting and promptly report any labeling or product discrepancies to supervision.
• Store all painting materials, including flammables, in designated areas in compliance with safety protocols.
• Coordinate or provide material handling support to complete work in progress (WIP) and ensure smooth transition to subsequent manufacturing or shipping steps.
• Maintain open communication with supervisors regarding material requirements, including items such as paint, degreaser, and xylene.
• Perform preventive maintenance on machines, equipment, and materials in accordance with maintenance manuals.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area using 5S principles: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
• Adhere to safety standards and procedures to maintain a secure working environment.
• Escalate quality issues to appropriate personnel when identified.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant painting experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Familiarity with mechanical and technical concepts is essential.

Job Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Accurate labor scanning, verification, and corrections as required.
• Ability to operate equipment such as overhead cranes, forklifts, hand trucks, aerial lifts, and painting machinery.
• Strong understanding of coating application methods and equipment setup.
• Proficiency in using measurement tools such as rulers, tape measures, height gauges, and micrometers.
• Ability to identify materials by size, length, dimension, and type of metal.
• Basic math skills, including fractions, and the ability to count and verify part accuracy.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively.

Physical Demands

The physical requirements outlined below are essential for successful job performance. While fulfilling job duties, employees frequently need to be on-site to manage projects. Additionally, employees must regularly engage in activities such as sitting, standing, walking, speaking, and listening. Occasionally, employees may need to bend, stoop, balance, and move within the facility. Specific vision abilities necessary for this role include close vision, distant vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Furthermore, employees may occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to sixty pounds.