Paint Department Specialist

At Columbia we come to work every day driven by the belief that innovation can transform industries, empower communities, and create a more efficient, sustainable world. With operations spanning five continents and a commitment to excellence in service and support, our purpose extends beyond advanced engineering equipment. We are pioneering innovation and paving a better tomorrow with factory automation solutions worldwide.

The paint department specialist ensures painters are properly set up by prepping parts and staging them by color. They facilitate the efficient and timely delivery of painted parts to assembly by auditing jobs for completion and transporting parts via forklift. Additionally, they support the department by stocking and maintaining paint supplies, performing booth maintenance, and assisting with overall departmental organization.

• Demonstrate intermediate knowledge of all shop tools for part preparation and staging
• Basic proficiency in the Vault Tool for part identification and job tracking
• Utilize print reading to assist in part identification and job tracking
• Basic operation of overhead cranes for part handling and staging
• Obtain a forklift license for operating 5k and 10k units
• Develop part preparation skills, including proper cleaning, sanding, and staging
• Proper clocking on and off MO operations for accurate job tracking
• Separate and stage parts by color within a section to improve workflow
• Properly orient and hang parts on hooks and racks, ensuring correct rolling tag placement
• Prepare paint rack tags with accurate job information
• Hand sand and blow down parts for staging as part of the preparation process
• Manage paperwork, including clocking in/out and updating the paint/down stack boards
• Assist team members as needed, supporting blasters, painters, and loading/unloading booths
• Adhere to all safety standards and protocols
• Maintain a respectful and professional demeanor when working with co‑workers
• Other duties as assigned

• Clock in and out of work orders to maintain accurate labor records when prepping parts or performing assembly tasks
• Accurately update and maintain the FIFO board (using Excel and Microsoft Teams) and communicate upcoming deliveries to assembly via email
• Assist in maintaining paint booths, forklifts, and the paint kitchen to protect company assets
• Periodically clean racks to remove build‑up
• Participate in 6S activities to maintain a clean and organized work area

• LEAN Principles
• M‑3 Infor Smart Office/Movex
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

• Basic print reading and job interpretation
• Basic use of the Vault Tool for job tracking
• Basic understanding of prep standards and job requirements
• Forklift operation and safe handling of materials
• Accurate documentation and reporting
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Written and oral communication

• Ability to foster and work within a team environment
• Actively participate in safety programs and comply with all Columbia safety policies
• Ability to follow written and verbal instruction
• Ability to simultaneously work on multiple projects at one time
• Displays attention to detail and consistently follows Standard Work Instructions when completing tasks
• Communicates well with peers, supervisors, customers, vendors, and other departments
• Actively participate in Columbia Idea System, 6S, and other CI efforts
• Clean and safe work area maintenance
• Demonstrates the qualities of a Team Player by accepting new responsibilities and filling in for other employees when needed

• High School Diploma or GED required
• 1+ years of experience in a paint area or related field preferred

Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, short and long term disability, 401(k), incentive compensation, paid holidays, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer – Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply. Columbia does participate in E‑Verify.

• Constant (over 66%) – Standing, walking, stooping, bending
• Frequent (33%-66%) – Hearing, listening, talking, kneeling, squatting, crouching, reaching overhead, pushing/pulling, carrying or lifting up to 10–50 lbs.
• Occasional (10%-33%) – Cleaning, sweeping
• Seldom (1%-10%) – Climbing (ladder)
• Never exceeding our company manual lifting policy and corresponding SOPs.

Specific vision abilities required: close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

• Extreme heat and extreme cold
• Noise, vibration, and close proximity to moving parts
• Electrical currents, dust, dirt, solvents, oils, cutting fluids, fumes and gases

• Safety glasses, hearing protection as required
• Other PPE as required by specific operational area or task being performed