Powder Coating Automation Manager

Job Title:

Powder Coating Automation Manager

Location:

Newport News, VA

Job Type: Contract to Hire

Pay Rate: $35.00–$40.00+/Hour

About the Company:

A well‑established precision sheet metal manufacturer with over 40 years of experience is seeking a Powder Coating Automation Manager to oversee their automated finishing line and batch booth operations. The company operates from a 60,000 sq. ft. facility and is known for producing high‑quality, custom sheet metal products for a wide range of industries in a fast‑paced, quality‑driven environment.

Position Summary:

The Powder Coating Automation Manager will lead and support a team in the powder coating department. This role is responsible for ensuring efficient daily operations, maintaining equipment, optimizing labor and workflow, and ensuring high‑quality finishes. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on experience with automated powder coating systems, strong leadership skills, and a sharp focus on process improvement and safety compliance.

• Supervise and manage daily operations of automated and manual powder coating processes
• Inspect coated parts to ensure proper thickness, adhesion, curing, and overall quality
• Troubleshoot and coordinate maintenance for equipment such as conveyors and ovens
• Analyze production data and workflow to improve process efficiency and reduce waste
• Train, coach, and supervise team members for performance and skill development
• Maintain safety standards in accordance with OSHA, EPA, and company regulations
• Monitor and adjust chemical levels in pretreatment systems
• Maintain production records, material logs, and supply inventories

• Minimum 5 years of experience in automated powder coating
• In-depth knowledge of powder coating techniques and equipment
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills
• Ability to diagnose automation equipment and conveyor systems
• Experience sourcing replacement parts and coordinating with vendors
• Proficient in using infrared (IR) equipment to monitor curing oven temperatures
• Capable of maintaining accurate records and ensuring process compliance

• SSPC or PCI Certification
• PLC, HMI, or automation programming knowledge
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Experience improving or creating standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Able to lift up to 50 lbs
• Able to stand, walk, bend, twist, squat, and perform repetitive hand movements
• Comfortable working in hot and cold environments
• Must pass medical evaluations for physical fitness, hearing, and respirator use

• Automated Powder Coating Line with 5‑stage wash system
• Batch powder coating booth (12’ x 12’)
• Batch curing oven

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.