Coating Apprentice

Job Summary

The Coating Apprentice assists experienced painters in various tasks related to preparing and applying industrial coatings to surfaces like steel structures and piping, railcars, tank trailers and any other paint projects within the facility. The role involves learning to use tools, understanding surface preparation techniques, and adhering to safety protocols. This position is a potential pathway forward to achieving level A Coating Technician Status, combining on‑job training and classroom.

Cleaning, sanding, masking, and priming surfaces to ensure proper coating adhesion.

Learning to mix, apply, and finish industrial coatings using various methods like spraying, rolling, or brushing.

Using tools such as spray guns, brushes, and other equipment related to industrial painting.

Adhering to safety regulations and procedures to prevent accidents and ensure a safe work environment.

Assist the coating tech A, B and Leadman equipment set‑up for spraying, equipment maintenance, & safety.

Ensuring, & understanding the quality of the finished product meets specified standards, and customer requirements.

Dispose of all garbage, and paint cans appropriately, help to maintain and clean all equipment after use such as purging paint lines and pumps.

• Basic math, reading comprehension, and writing skills
• Dependable
• Manages time effectively
• Must be willing to help out in other departments as needed
• Ability to work independently or as a team member
• Must be authorized to work in the US
• High School Graduate or equivalent preferred
• Previous industrial or commercial coating/painting experience
• Has a basic knowledge of the paint equipment and gauges

At VLS our employees are the core of our business. As such, we value our employees' physical and mental wellbeing by providing first class, high value benefits and resources centered around a proper work‑life balance.

Physical and Mental Wellbeing: VLS is committed to supporting our employees’ physical and mental health by providing medical, dental, and vision insurance – based on each employee’s need, we offer various high‑quality, low‑premium plans, which include a concierge service (available in Spanish) and 2nd MD offering.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Healthcare Saving Accounts (HSA) – set aside pre‑tax money to use toward your healthcare spending. VLS provides an employer contribution to all HSA accounts.

Time Off – we offer 11 company‑paid holidays, in addition to paid time off and voluntary time off plans.

Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 assistance, confidential counseling services free to all employees and dependents.

Telemedicine – all employees and dependents receive free virtual visits by licensed practitioners any time, any day, including holidays.

Financial and Retirement Planning: 401(k) – generous 401(k) matching program after 90 days of employment. VLS will match up to 5% of your pay every pay period. Matching contributions are 100% vested immediately.

Life and Disability Insurance – employer‑paid life insurance, along with short‑term and long‑term disability coverage for all full‑time employees.

Voluntary Life Protection Plans – employees and their dependents can elect coverage in voluntary life/accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity plans.

Rewards and Recognition Programs – celebrate employees from birthdays to anniversaries and other milestones/achievements.

Financial Planning – free one‑on‑one financial planning with a certified financial planner/coach.

Employee Discount – employee discount program for savings on everyday goods and services across the country.