Paint Inspector

Job Information

• Job Title: Paint Inspector
• Department: Quality / Manufacturing
• Reports To: [Insert Job Title]
• Location: [Insert Location]
• Effective/Revision Date: [Insert Date]

Role Purpose

The Paint Inspector is responsible for conducting detailed inspections of painted and coated metal products to ensure compliance with quality standards, engineering specifications, and customer requirements. This role monitors all stages of the coating process, from surface preparation through final inspection, to identify and prevent corrosion, coating failures, and cosmetic defects while supporting a safe and quality-focused manufacturing environment.

Scope & Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Paint Inspection

• Inspect incoming materials and fabricated sheet metal parts for surface defects, cleanliness, and proper weld or assembly quality prior to coating operations
• Verify surfaces are free from oil, grease, debris, oxidation, and other contaminants before paint application
• Confirm proper masking, preparation, and handling procedures are followed

In-Process Inspection

• Conduct visual inspections throughout paint and powder coating operations
• Monitor coating application techniques to ensure proper coverage, consistency, and adherence to specifications
• Perform wet film thickness (WFT) measurements during coating application
• Verify environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity remain within required process limits
• Identify and communicate process deviations or quality concerns promptly

Post-Paint Inspection

• Perform visual inspections for cosmetic defects including runs, sags, blistering, orange peel, pinholes, scratches, contamination, and inconsistencies in color or texture
• Utilize dry film thickness (DFT) gauges and other precision inspection tools to verify coating thickness and compliance with specifications
• Conduct adhesion, cure, and hardness testing as required
• Utilize holiday detection equipment to identify coating discontinuities or pinholes when applicable
• Verify completed products meet customer, engineering, and quality standards prior to release

Documentation & Reporting

• Accurately record inspection results, test data, and findings in logs, reports, and electronic tracking systems
• Generate non-conformance reports (NCRs) for products or processes that fail to meet specifications
• Prepare final inspection documentation and quality records for internal or customer review

Problem Solving & Collaboration

• Collaborate with production personnel, supervisors, engineering, and quality teams to address quality issues and implement corrective actions
• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement activities to reduce defects and improve coating performance
• Support calibration, verification, and maintenance of inspection and testing equipment
• Follow all documented procedures, work instructions, and safety requirements
• Perform other duties as assigned based on business needs

Work Experience & Skills

Education

• High school diploma or GED required
• Additional technical training or certifications related to coatings inspection, quality inspection, or manufacturing preferred

Experience

• Proven experience as a Paint Inspector or Quality Inspector in a manufacturing environment required
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication, industrial coatings, aerospace, or metal finishing environments preferred

Skills / Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of coating application processes, surface preparation, and industrial paint systems
• Familiarity with inspection methods and testing procedures related to painted and powder-coated products
• Proficiency in the use of inspection tools including WFT gauges, DFT gauges, adhesion testing equipment, and holiday detectors
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving capability
• Knowledge of quality systems and documentation practices preferred

Personal Attributes

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Working Conditions

• Work is performed primarily in a manufacturing and paint/coating environment
• Exposure to paint fumes, chemicals, industrial equipment, noise, and varying temperatures
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, respirators, hearing protection, and protective clothing as applicable

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, reach, handle materials, and use hands and fingers to inspect components
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds
• Close visual acuity required for detailed inspection activities
• Ability to perform repetitive inspection tasks for extended periods

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Compliance Statements

Equal Opportunity Employer

[Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

ITAR Requirements

This position may involve access to information, technology, or materials subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). In compliance with these regulations, applicants must be considered a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15, which includes:

• U.S. citizens or nationals
• U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
• Refugees (under 8 U.S.C. § 1157)
• Asylees (under 8 U.S.C. § 1158)

Applicants who do not meet these criteria may be considered only if the company is able to obtain the necessary export authorization from the U.S. Department of State.