Baker

VPI Operator / Industrial Painter

This role prepares rotors, stators, and other electrical components for processing with resins, operates vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI) systems, and supports high-quality finishing through precise curing and painting processes. You follow detailed manufacturing procedures and operational method sheets to ensure components meet strict performance and quality standards, particularly for military-related projects.

Responsibilities

• Prepare rotors, stators, and other components for processing using proper resins and preparation techniques.
• Operate VPI systems to accurately control resin levels and vacuum cycles in accordance with documented procedures.
• Monitor oven times and temperatures to ensure components cure correctly and consistently.
• Clean excess epoxy from components to promote proper primer and paint adhesion.
• Follow Plant Manufacturing Procedures (PMP) and Operational Method Sheets (OMS) to operate VPI and oven equipment safely and effectively.
• Perform daily and weekly Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) tasks on equipment with accuracy and consistency.
• Review and follow work orders to complete tasks to specification and within required timelines.
• Support painting and finishing processes, applying primers and paints to components as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area to support quality, safety, and productivity.
• Develop proficiency with processes, equipment, and materials over time, targeting 6,000 hours of experience to reach full mastery of the role.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 6 months of prior painting experience in a production, industrial, or similar environment.
• Ability to operate and monitor industrial equipment such as VPI systems and curing ovens.
• Strong attention to detail when preparing components, cleaning epoxy, and applying resins and coatings.
• Ability to follow Plant Manufacturing Procedures (PMP) and Operational Method Sheets (OMS) precisely.
• Capability to perform daily and weekly Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) tasks accurately.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow work orders and written instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort working with production equipment and tools.
• Reliability in adhering to assigned shift schedules and meeting production timelines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Vocational or high school education, or equivalent, is required.
• Willingness to complete on-the-job training to learn trade techniques and procedures.
• Interest in working on projects related to military applications and high-specification components.
• Ability to work effectively on an open production floor while maintaining focus and quality.
• Comfort working in a structured environment with documented processes and quality standards.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a union environment that provides guaranteed wage increases based on hours worked, supporting steady income growth over time. The facility offers a clean, quiet, and well-organized setting that promotes focus and comfort throughout the workday. Team members contribute to meaningful military projects, adding a sense of purpose and pride to the work. The location sits directly off Highway 14 in North Mankato, making commuting straightforward and convenient.

Work Environment

The role takes place on an open production floor with great lighting, creating a bright and comfortable workspace. The environment is very clean and quiet, supporting both safety and concentration. Multiple shift options are available, including 1st shift (6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday), 2nd shift (4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday), and 4th shift weekend shift (6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday), with two positions needed on the 4th shift. Work involves operating VPI systems and ovens, handling resins and epoxy, and performing painting tasks on components in a controlled, production-oriented environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of North Mankato, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $51126.00 - $65368.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in North Mankato, MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 16, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.