Powder Paint Process Technician I - 3rd Shift

ITW; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

ITW in Wisconsin is seeking a Powder Paint Process Technician I to maintain pretreatment and wastewater systems while supporting the paint line operations. You will perform daily testing, monitor chemical levels, and collaborate with environmental, maintenance, engineering, and production teams to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.

The role requires hands-on work, 50% on paint line activities such as hanging and painting parts, moving materials, and inspecting finishes, with opportunities

Qualifications

• 2+ years of finishing experience preferred, but not required.
• Mechanically inclined with strong working knowledge of powder coating, pretreatment, and wastewater systems.
• Team-oriented, self-starter with strong quality focus and attention to detail.
• Ability to use a computer for documenting test results, team communication, and SDS access.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Ability to make sound decisions and demonstrate resourcefulness in meeting objectives.
• Must be willing to obtain certifications, including Respirator Training, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), Hazard Communication (Haz-Comm), SDS Training, PPE Training, Forklift Certification, Fire Extinguisher Training, Crane Operation, Slings & Straps Training.
• Must successfully pass an assessment of pretreatment and wastewater systems prior to completion of the probationary period.
• Must also be certified/medically cleared to wear a respirator within the probationary period.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment with minimal training.
• Ability to stand for 8-12 hours per day and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to work overtime and cross-train in other roles as needed.

Responsibilities

• Check and maintain chemical levels safely and efficiently.
• Oversee and perform cleaning of the pretreatment system.
• Maintain filter press and clarifier within the wastewater system.
• Conduct daily titrations, record results, and adjust as needed.
• Monitor coating weights and document findings.
• Collaborate with the team on quality testing activities.
• Perform annual cleaning of the pretreatment system.
• Oversee daily system startup and shutdown procedures for oven, dryer, and pretreatment system.
• Coordinate with paint line personnel regarding breaks and vacations.
• Assist with production coverage and break rotations.
• Provide technical support to environmental, maintenance, engineering, and production teams.
• Assist with paint quality testing and manage supply orders for designated areas.
• Troubleshoot paint line issues and implement corrective actions.
• Drive improvements in safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Support paint line operations (approx. 50%): hanging and painting parts, moving materials, ordering supplies, inspecting finished parts, packaging and cleaning areas.

Skills

Powder coating knowledge

Teamwork

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Written and verbal communication

Adaptability

Stand 8-12 hours

Lift up to 50 lbs

Overtime willingness

Tools

Computer usage for documentation (SDS access)

Job description

Job Description:

The Powder Paint Process Technician I is responsible for maintaining and operating the pretreatment and wastewater systems, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with the paint line team. Approximately 50% of the role will be dedicated to supporting paint line operations, including part handling, painting, material movement, inspection, and housekeeping tasks.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Check and maintain chemical levels in a safe and efficient manner.
• Oversee and perform cleaning of the pretreatment system.
• Maintain filter press and clarifier within the wastewater system.
• Conduct daily titrations, record results, and make necessary adjustments.
• Monitor coating weights of the pretreatment system and document findings.
• Collaborate with the team on quality testing activities.
• Perform annual cleaning of the pretreatment system.
• Oversee daily system startup and shutdown procedures, including oven, dryer, and pretreatment system.
• Coordinate with paint line personnel regarding break rotations, vacations, and daily production support.
• Assist with production coverage, including break rotations and vacation coverage.
• Provide technical support to environmental, maintenance, engineering, and production teams.
• Assist with paint quality testing and manage supply orders for designated areas.
• Troubleshoot paint line issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Drive improvements in safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Support paint line operations (approx. 50% of time), including:
  • Hanging and painting parts
  • Moving and staging materials
  • Ordering supplies
  • Inspecting finished parts
  • Packaging and cleaning work areas

Minimum Qualifications:

• 2+ years of finishing experience preferred, but not required.
• Mechanically inclined with strong working knowledge of powder coating, pretreatment, and wastewater systems.
• Team-oriented, self-starter with strong quality focus and attention to detail.
• Ability to use a computer for documenting test results, team communication, and SDS access.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Ability to make sound decisions and demonstrate resourcefulness in meeting objectives.
• Willingness to obtain certifications, including but not limited to:
  • Respirator Training
  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
  • Hazard Communication (Haz-Comm)
  • SDS Training
  • PPE Training
  • Forklift Certification
  • Fire Extinguisher Training
  • Crane Operation, Slings & Straps Training
• Must successfully pass an assessment of pretreatment and wastewater systems prior to completion of the probationary period.
• Must also be certified/medically cleared to wear a respirator within the probationary period.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment with minimal training.
• Ability to stand for 8-12 hours per day and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to work overtime and cross-train in other roles as needed.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.