Technical Products Specialist

Want to be part of one of the country’s fastest growing infrastructure businesses? The Vortex Companies, LLC delivers cutting edge trenchless technologies and turnkey services to make the worlds water cleaner and we’re growing every day!

We think BIG about solving the world’s toughest challenges in failing water, sewer and industrial infrastructure.

At Vortex, you will be surrounded with a culture that puts your safety first in all we do. If you like a fast-paced environment, a team structure that provides support, training, and development, then apply today!

We are seeking an experienced Technical Products Specialist with deep expertise in plural component spray systems — specifically the Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor series — and a proven track record in the wastewater infrastructure industry. This is a hands-on, field-forward role divided equally across three core functions: training new customers and certified applicators, conducting QA/QC field inspections, and troubleshooting Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor plural component spray equipment for existing customers.

This is not a desk job.

You will be the technical face of Vortex in the field, traveling to customer job sites approximately four days per week (home on weekends), with the remaining time spent at our warehouse conducting QA material testing and developing training content. AMPP/NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP) certification is strongly preferred.

  This role requires domestic and international travel approximately 65–70% of the time.

Key Responsibilities

Customer & Applicator Training

• Deliver on-site and hands-on training programs for new customers, contractors, and certified applicators on the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor plural component spray systems and protective coatings.

• Train field personnel in surface preparation, epoxy and polyurethane coating application methods, environmental condition assessment, and safety procedures.

• Develop and continuously improve training curriculum, materials, and instructional resources in collaboration with internal departments.

• Ensure all training programs adhere to industry standards (AMPP, SSPC, OSHA) and Vortex company policies.

• Provide on-site support and technical guidance to certified applicators during initial project startups.

QA/QC Field Inspection & Certification

• Inspect and certify the quality of protective coatings applied on wastewater structures and equipment, ensuring compliance with project specifications.

• Conduct pre-application, in-process, and post-application inspections including surface cleanliness, DFT readings, adhesion testing, and environmental condition monitoring.

• Prepare and maintain accurate inspection reports; document and communicate non-conformance issues to project managers and clients.

• Conduct QA material testing at the warehouse, maintaining detailed records of test results, batch data, and material certifications.

• Keep current with AMPP/NACE, SSPC, and OSHA standards and apply them consistently across all inspections.

Equipment Troubleshooting & Technical Support

• Serve as the primary technical resource for diagnosing and resolving mechanical failures on Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor plural component spray systems (electric and hydraulic), including proportioners, heaters, transfer pumps, and Fusion spray guns.

• Assess root causes of equipment failures, develop mitigation strategies, and implement solutions to minimize customer downtime.

• Provide technical support to sales, application, and customer service teams, including identifying up-sell opportunities in the field.

• Coordinate closely with project managers and clients to ensure equipment and application specifications are met throughout the project lifecycle.

• Oversee the mixing, application, and curing of epoxy and polyurethane coatings, ensuring adherence to manufacturer specifications and project requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in the application and inspection of epoxy and polyurethane coatings and linings in the wastewater or water utility infrastructure industry.

• 5+ years of direct, field-level experience operating and troubleshooting Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor plural component spray systems (E-Series, H-XP, XM, XP-50, or equivalent).

• 3+ years of experience training or mentoring coating applicators, contractors, or technical field crews.

• Strong working knowledge of surface preparation standards, environmental condition testing instruments, and coating inspection methods.

• Demonstrated understanding of concrete mixes and spray-applied mortar applications.

• Working knowledge of confined space entry, hot work permits, and Job Safety Analysis (JSA) procedures.

• Ability to read and interpret project plans, specifications, and material data sheets.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) for reporting, documentation, and communication.

• Ability to accurately track field expenses and submit detailed monthly expense reports using Microsoft Excel and Outlook.

• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally (65–70%); valid passport required or ability to obtain one.

• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• AMPP Coating Inspector Program (CIP) Level 1 or Level 2 certification — strongly preferred.

• Additional certifications: SSPC PCI, NACE CIP, or other recognized coatings inspection credentials.

• Graco Master Certified Service Training for Protective Coatings, Graco XP-50, or Reactor spray systems.

• Experience with spray-applied cementitious mortars and shotcrete applications.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.

• Experience with curriculum development and formal instructional design.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Deep, practical knowledge of Graco XP-50 and Graco Reactor plural component systems and protective coatings chemistry. Technical Depth:

• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable training for diverse audiences. Communication:

• Strong diagnostic mindset; able to identify root causes quickly and implement effective solutions under pressure. Problem-Solving:

• Professional, service-oriented approach to building and maintaining long-term client relationships. Customer Focus:

• Comfortable managing a dynamic field schedule with minimal day-to-day supervision. Independence:

• Demonstrated commitment to PPE compliance, OSHA standards, and confined space protocols. Safety Leadership:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to perform physically demanding work for 8+ hours per day, including prolonged standing, walking, bending, and twisting.

• Ability to safely perform duties related to confined space entry.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

• Must wear all required PPE including hard hat, safety vest, work boots, and safety glasses/goggles as required.

Vortex Companies, LLC and all of its subsidiaries, considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. All applicants will be considered solely on the basis of their qualifications.

We are a fair chance employer.

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