Job Description

Summary :
The Paint Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a technical leadership role responsible for defining, optimizing, and sustaining paint processes across the organization. This individual serves as the primary authority on coatings, surface preparation, application techniques, and quality standards. The Paint SME partners closely with production, engineering, quality, and leadership teams to ensure painting operations are efficient, scalable, safe, and consistently meet the highest quality expectations. This role reports directly to the Paint Supervisor (or applicable leadership role).

Accountabilities:

• Serve as the technical authority on all paint systems, coatings, and application methodologies.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve paint processes, standards, and best practices.
• Troubleshoot complex paint defects (e.g., blisters, streaks, adhesion failures) and lead root cause analysis efforts.
• Optimize HVLP spray application processes, surface preparation, and curing techniques.
• Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all paint-related activities.
• Collaborate with production and leadership teams to align paint processes with manufacturing goals and schedules.
• Evaluate and recommend paint materials, equipment, and technologies to improve efficiency and quality.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements related to coatings and painting operations.
• Lead quality initiatives, including development and verification of inspection checklists and acceptance criteria.
• Provide technical training, coaching, and mentorship to Painter Leads and team members.
• Partner with vendors and suppliers to ensure material consistency, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Support new product introductions and process changes related to painting and finishing.
• Conduct testing and validation of new coatings, equipment, and process improvements.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, waste reduction, and efficiency improvements.
• Maintain documentation and technical records related to paint systems and processes.
• Support cross-functional problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Paint Supervisor

Qualifications

• 7+ years of industrial or commercial painting experience, with advanced technical expertise.
• Deep knowledge of coatings, paint chemistries, surface preparation, and application techniques (including HVLP systems).
• Strong experience troubleshooting coating defects and implementing corrective/preventive actions.
• Experience developing SOPs, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Background working in a manufacturing, production, or metal fabrication environment preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root cause analysis skills.
• Effective communication and ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, including OSHA and environmental compliance standards.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive projects to completion.
• Physical ability to support on-floor activities including lifting up to 50 lbs and working with equipment as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to process excellence.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to paint fumes, chemicals, and noise.
• Combination of hands-on production floor support and technical/office work.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying environmental conditions.
• Mobility: Requires standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods as needed.
• Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands for inspection, testing, and equipment interaction.
• Lifting: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and push/pull up to 100 lbs (OSHA standards apply).
• Visual and Auditory Requirements: Must be able to observe fine finish details and communicate effectively in a production environment.

Additional Information

A Note to our Recruitment Partners: We really appreciate the interest, but MCG currently manages hiring through our internal team. We love getting to know our candidates directly! Because of this, we don’t accept unsolicited resumes from agencies at this time. If we ever need an extra hand, we’ll be sure to reach out to the community. Thanks for understanding!

MCG is an equal opportunity employer prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, physical or mental disability, and any other protected classes stated by applicable federal and state laws. MCG is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities and to act in accordance with regulations and guidance issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).