Coatings Engineer – CARC Paint & Aerospace Manufacturing

Corporate Coatings/CARC Paint Engineer

Onsite in Auburn Hills, MI |

Schedule:

9x80

Estimated Salary: $125K-$150K with Comprehensive Benefits Package

The Coatings Engineer leads and supports the coating processes in a defense and aerospace manufacturing environment and will handle multiple projects and tasks throughout product development, product launch, and manufacturing. This position also serves as the Paint/Coating Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting, validating, and auditing coating operations (e.g., CARC painting, powder coating) to ensure proper surface preparation, coating application, and compliance with customer specifications.

• Lead the development, optimization, and support of manufacturing coating processes.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable coating standards, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Partner with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and production teams to improve coating quality, reduce cost, and minimize cycle time.
• Develop and execute coating process plans supporting product development, launches, and production.
• Support and facilitate customer and third‑party audits of paint and coating operations.
• Conduct supplier audits focused on paint and coating system compliance.
• Participate in APQP activities, reviewing contracts, drawings, routings, purchase orders, and quality plans.
• Review customer contracts for coating‑related quality clauses and compliance requirements.
• Define and maintain coating inspection standards including film thickness, adhesion, cure verification, gloss, and appearance.
• Investigate coating defects such as runs, fisheyes, and pinholes; perform root‑cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Review and approve coating documentation while providing technical guidance and training to production personnel.
• Validate new coating materials, paint systems, and process changes to ensure product quality and process reliability.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation in accordance with engineering policies and procedures.
• Follow all safety policies, PPE requirements, and environmental compliance standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• U.S. Citizenship is required by Federal Law
• Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree in Quality, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, and 5+ years of coatings and paint related experience in a manufacturing setting (Equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
• Understanding and application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficient with computer applications, including the Microsoft Office suite.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Capable of performing effectively in a fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment.
• National Association of Coating Engineers (NACE) certification is a plus.
• Experience with Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC) is a plus.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Must be able to meet background screening and controlled substance testing requirements.
• Ability to travel occasionally to suppliers or customer sites as needed.

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to moderate noise, moving equipment, temperature fluctuations, and airborne particles.
• Frequent standing and walking on the production floor.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Occasional bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching during inspections and audits.
• Ability to use precision measurement equipment and read technical drawings and specifications.

Full‑time position offering a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical (BCBS), Dental (Delta Dental), and Vision (BCBS/VSP) coverage; FSA and HSA options; company‑paid Short‑Term Disability, Long‑Term Disability, and Basic Life/AD&D insurance; voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage; virtual care, pet insurance, Met Life legal plan, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Benefits Hub employee discounts, 401(k) with company match, PTO, and a performance‑based bonus.

Eligible…