Chemical​/Process Engineer - Powder Coating & Surface Treatment

Chemical/Process Engineer - Powder Coating & Surface Treatment

Location:

Houston, TX

Reports to:

Plant Manager

The Chemical/Process Engineer will be the subject matter expert responsible for the development, optimization, and control of the industrial powder coating and chemical pre‑treatment processes. The engineer ensures the paint line operates at peak efficiency, maintains the highest quality finish standards, and adheres to strict safety and environmental regulations.

The role includes commissioning, auditing, and continuous improvement projects for automated coating systems.

• Design and implement optimal process parameters (fluid dynamics, temperature, pressure, dwell times) for all stages of the powder coating line.
• Lead technical efforts for renovation and integration of new equipment such as paint booths, conveyor systems, and automated greasing mechanisms.
• Optimize performance of advanced coating technology, including automated paint booths with 3‑axis independent movement guns, to maximize coverage and minimize manual touch‑up.
• Manage and optimize multi‑stage chemical pre‑treatment processes, focusing on Zirconium chemistries (e.g., Kleen 820 HP, Zirca‑Sil®18) over traditional iron phosphate.
• Track and control chemical bath concentrations (Stage 1 Degreasing, Stage 2 Rinsing, Zirca additive stages) and water quality (DI rinse).
• Support the transition and qualification of Zirconium systems across different plants.
• Actively troubleshoot and implement corrective actions for coating defects such as adhesion issues, inconsistent film thickness, color variation, and yellowing.
• Monitor and manage oven and part temperatures to ensure proper powder cure and investigate deviations (e.g., parts running under cure temp of 170 °C).
• Conduct rigorous performance testing, including salt‑spray tests for conditional and final product approvals.
• Create and maintain detailed SOPs, process control plans, and technical audit reports for all paint operations.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental and safety regulations.
• Support sustainable manufacturing systems such as Net Zero Carbon and fully electric paint lines.
• Maintain a complete Environmental Room (E‑Room) with controlled air conditioning and humidity for the powder spraying area.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience:
  
  5+ years as a Process Engineer, Chemical Engineer, or Coating Engineer in a high‑volume industrial manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in industrial powder coating application and curing processes.
• Strong knowledge of pre‑treatment chemistries, specifically Zirconium or similar conversion coatings.
• Experience with automated paint line equipment and process control systems.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills (DOE, Root Cause Analysis).
• Proficiency in project management, including managing vendors and cross‑functional teams to deliver capital projects on time and within budget.
• Strong communication skills to provide technical guidance and training to production staff.
• ITAR facility: applicant must be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Sanmina is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity