Prep/Junior Tech

Fiber Global; Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Fiber Global is seeking an Entry-Level Prep Technician to support its R&D team in preparing and finishing prototype cabinetry components using Forged Fiber Board (FFB). You will learn and perform basic surface preparation, painting, staining, and finishing techniques while helping create high-quality prototypes for testing and customer demonstrations.

The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and comfortable working with hand tools and finishing equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or preferred.
• Willingness to learn painting and finishing techniques.
• Comfortable using basic hand tools and safety PPE.

Responsibilities

• Prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding, masking, and basic prep tasks.
• Assist with primers, paints, stains, and clear finishes using brushes and spray equipment.
• Learn setup, operation, and cleaning of finishing tools and equipment.
• Inspect finished parts for coverage, appearance, and quality.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area following 5S standards.
• Support prototype development with fabrication, assembly, and engineering teams.

Skills

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Comfortable with hand tools

Mechanical aptitude

Safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Basic hand tools

Spray finishing equipment

Job description

The Entry-Level Prep Technician will support Fiber Global’s R&D team in preparing and finishing prototype cabinetry components made with our innovative Forged Fiber Board (FFB). This position will learn and perform basic surface preparation, painting, staining, and finishing techniques while helping create high-quality prototypes for testing and customer demonstrations.

The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, willing to learn, and comfortable working with hand tools and finishing equipment. Previous painting, woodworking, manufacturing, or hands-on experience is helpful but not required. Training will be provided on FFB materials, finishing processes, equipment, and safety procedures.

• Prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding, masking, and performing other basic preparation tasks.
• Assist with applying primers, paints, stains, and clear finishes using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment.
• Learn proper setup, operation, and cleaning of finishing tools and equipment.
• Inspect finished parts for coverage, consistency, appearance, and quality.
• Perform basic touch-ups and corrections as needed.
• Follow work instructions and safety procedures when working with paints, coatings, and solvents.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area following 5S standards.
• Work with the fabrication, assembly, and engineering teams to support prototype development.
• Assist with documenting finishing processes and observations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in painting, woodworking, manufacturing, construction, or other hands-on work is a plus but not required.
• Willingness to learn painting and finishing techniques.
• Comfortable using basic hand tools.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and safety procedures.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40–50 lbs.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including a respirator when necessary.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with painting, staining, woodworking, cabinetry, or manufacturing.
• Basic knowledge of hand and power tools.
• Interest in learning spray finishing and coating applications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to problem solving.