PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS JOB IF YOU CAN NOT SPRAY POLYURATHINE PAINT
Job Description
The Spray Painter is responsible for leading the spray finishing operation, ensuring all products are finished to the highest possible standard whilst maximising productivity, quality and efficiency across the Spray Shop.
The role combines traditional spray painting expertise with responsibility for operating, maintaining and optimising the Company's automated spray finishing equipment, including robotic spray technology, drying systems and associated production equipment.
Working closely with the Spray Shop Manager and wider Production Team, the successful candidate will oversee paint preparation, spray application, colour consistency, equipment performance and quality control, whilst supporting the continuous improvement of the Company's spray finishing processes.
The role requires extensive technical knowledge of industrial coating systems, spray application techniques and automated finishing equipment, together with strong organisational skills and a commitment to delivering exceptional workmanship.
Key Objectives
1. Deliver Outstanding Finish Quality
Ensure every product leaving the Spray Shop achieves the Company's premium quality standards, delivering flawless finishes that exceed customer expectations.
2. Lead Spray Production
Operate and coordinate daily spray finishing activities to maximise throughput, minimise downtime and ensure production deadlines are achieved.
3. Optimise Spray Line Performance
Operate, monitor and continuously improve the performance of the Company's automated spray line, spray booths and drying equipment to maximise efficiency and reliability.
4. Reduce Waste & Improve Productivity
Drive improvements in paint consumption, material utilisation, first-time pass rates and overall production efficiency through best practice and continuous improvement.
5. Develop Technical Standards
Support the development of standard operating procedures, train colleagues and promote best practice throughout the Spray Shop.
Key Responsibilities
Spray Finishing
- Apply primers, sealers, base coats, lacquers and specialist coatings using conventional, HVLP and air-assisted airless spray equipment.
- Produce consistent, high-quality finishes on MDF, solid timber, veneers, laminates and specialist substrates.
- Ensure colour consistency, sheen level and finish quality across all production.
- Monitor coating thickness, flash-off times, curing and drying processes.
- Carry out polishing and finishing work where required.
Automated Spray Line Operation
- Operate and monitor the Company's automated spray line and associated production equipment.
- Set up production runs, adjust machine settings and monitor application quality.
- Identify process improvements that increase throughput and reduce downtime.
- Carry out routine operational checks and basic preventative maintenance.
- Report technical faults and support external engineers during servicing and repairs.
- Assist in developing efficient workflows for automated production.
Paint Preparation & Colour Control
- Mix coatings accurately in accordance with technical data sheets.
- Prepare catalysts, hardeners and thinners to the correct specifications.
- Maintain accurate colour matching and consistency.
- Monitor paint stock levels and minimise material waste.
- Ensure correct storage and handling of all coatings.
Quality Assurance
- Inspect products before, during and after spraying.
- Identify and rectify finish defects including contamination, runs, sinkage, orange peel and colour inconsistencies.
- Ensure finished products meet Company quality standards before release.
- Investigate recurring quality issues and recommend corrective actions.
Equipment & Maintenance
- Set up, clean and maintain spray guns, pumps, pressure pots and mixing equipment.
- Ensure spray booths, drying rooms and robotic equipment remain clean and operational.
- Carry out daily equipment inspections.
- Report maintenance requirements promptly.
- Support planned preventative maintenance activities.
Production & Workflow
- Work closely with the Preparation Team to ensure components are ready for spraying.
- Prioritise workloads in line with production schedules.
- Complete production documentation accurately.
- Maintain full traceability of components throughout the finishing process.
- Support production planning to maximise workflow efficiency.
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead by example through professionalism and exceptional workmanship.
- Support the training and development of junior Spray Painters and Preppers.
- Share technical knowledge and best practice with colleagues.
- Promote teamwork and effective communication across departments.
- Encourage continuous improvement and a positive working culture.
Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with Company Health & Safety procedures.
- Follow COSHH requirements for the safe handling of paints and hazardous substances.
- Wear appropriate PPE at all times.
- Maintain exceptional housekeeping standards.
- Promote a safe working environment and report hazards promptly.
Skills & Experience
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
- Extensive experience in professional spray finishing within joinery, furniture manufacturing or cabinetry.
- Excellent knowledge of polyurethane, acrylic, water-based and specialist coating systems.
- Experience operating automated spray lines or industrial finishing equipment.
- Strong understanding of colour matching, coating technology and finishing processes.
- Experience using conventional, HVLP and air-assisted airless spray systems.
- Good mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot spray equipment.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work under pressure while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
Personal Attributes
- Quality focused.
- Technically minded.
- Proactive and solutions driven.
- Highly organised.
- Reliable and dependable.
- Calm under pressure.
- A positive role model for colleagues.
- Committed to continuous improvement.
- Passionate about delivering exceptional workmanship.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Croydon CR0 4AA: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Spray Painting: 5 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person