Job/Position Summary Fathom Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Custom Industrial Painter with expertise in precision spray painting, custom coatings, and Class A cosmetic finishes. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of paint formulations, mixing ratios, spray application techniques, and quality standards across various materials. This role requires a versatile painter who can independently manage custom paint applications, from one-off prototypes to high-volume production. Projects support industries including aerospace, military, and consumer goods, with parts manufactured from 3D-printed plastics, CNC-machined metals, fiberglass, and composites. The painter will work closely with the Finishing Department to ensure proper surface preparation, coating adhesion, and consistent, high-quality results that meet customer specifications. Primary Responsibilities
- Perform precision spray painting to achieve consistent, high-quality Class A cosmetic finishes.
- Independently mix and prepare paints, primers, reducers, and hardeners according to specified formulations and mixing ratios.
- Apply various coating systems, including urethanes, epoxies, enamels, and specialty coatings.
- Set up, adjust, operate, and maintain spray equipment based on coating requirements, material types, and desired finishes.
- Perform detailed masking, cleaning, priming, and surface preparation prior to painting.
- Inspect finished parts for color accuracy, coverage, consistency, and cosmetic defects.
- Identify, troubleshoot, and correct paint defects, including orange peel, runs, fisheyes, and adhesion issues.
- Interpret customer specifications, technical instructions, and coating requirements to determine appropriate application methods.
- Adapt painting techniques and workflows for custom prototypes, small batches, and high-volume production.
- Collaborate with Finishing, Production, and Quality teams to maintain efficient workflows and minimize rework.
- Maintain paint equipment, work areas, and compliance with safety and quality procedures.
Requirements
- Proven hands-on experience in custom automotive, industrial, aerospace, or specialty spray painting.
- Demonstrated ability to produce Class A, show-quality, or high-end cosmetic finishes.
- Strong understanding of paint chemistry, mixing ratios, reducers, hardeners, primers, and curing requirements.
- Experience applying multiple paint systems rather than working exclusively with a single coating or repetitive process.
- Proficiency with HVLP or conventional spray equipment, including setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of surface preparation, cleaning, masking, and paint adhesion across different substrates.
- Ability to independently evaluate finish quality, identify defects, and perform corrective work.
- Ability to read and follow technical specifications, work instructions, and customer requirements.
- Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and adaptability to changing project requirements.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Knowledge of paint handling, PPE, ventilation, and workplace safety practices.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in custom automotive painting, restoration, aerospace, industrial coatings, or prototype finishing.
- Experience painting plastics, metals, fiberglass, and composite materials.
- Familiarity with military, aerospace, or customer-specific coating specifications.
- Experience painting 3D-printed components and CNC-machined parts.
- Experience transitioning between custom, low-volume projects and repeatable high-volume production.
2PM - 11PM (Second Shift)
