PAINT SPECIALIST

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the Paint Value Stream Leader, this role is responsible for supporting the Paint Operations Team in optimizing surface treatment and paint processes to meet operational targets for Safety, Quality, Cost, and Delivery. The holder of this position will be responsible for supporting both manual and robotic spray paint operations. Responsibility for robotic paint operations include graphic user interface on electrostatic paint application, robotic pathing, robotic fluid delivery systems, fault recovery procedures and troubleshooting. Position will be responsible for robot safety, adjustments to path via either off-line or on-line methodology, teach pendant operation and data program entries.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide technical direction and management of the design, improvement and installation of integrated systems of people, materials and equipment
• Lead continuous improvement projects to improve processes
• Lead the development of operating systems used in the paint shop for application of surface pre-treatment, electrocoat, primer, and topcoats.
• Continuously and incrementally improve all manual spray and robotic spray processes and document as standardized work
• Minimize robotic downtime by systematically and proactively monitoring part performance and spare part status; prioritize schedule of immediate replacement with emphasis on most troubled robots
• Prioritize work/improvement schedule to support annual shutdowns for Preventive Maintenance, 5S, and equipment updates
• Support Paint Operations Team with optimization of waste elimination, quality improvements, operating system controls, material flow, footprint development, and efficiency improvements
• Lead Team activities focused on new processes and facility initiatives related to the Paint Shop
• Support Environmental Health and Safety team by implementing and maintaining VOC monitoring controls for paints and solvents. Review product material data sheets for new paint and solvent material to ensure adherence to specifications.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Highly technical paint robot programming, paint application and technical expertise in robot trouble shooting
• Mastery of paint process and equipment transfer efficiency, quality checks and verifications
• Detailed knowledge of paint application equipment, pre-treatment systems, paint shop productivity improvement practices, tools, and methods. Ability to effectively develop a vision, plan, and coordinate the activities of the Paint Technicians with the Paint Operations Team
• Mastery of back up and restoration of all robot programs with paint parameters and fluid presets
• Demonstrated advanced level experience with troubleshooting, problem solving protocols and techniques, visual aids and production control boards
• High level of demonstrated computer skill proficiency including but not limited to, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint Presentations), robot programming and adjustments for trouble shooting initiatives, ability to take the lead through hands on activity
• As all documentation is in English, proficiency in the English language is required
• Demonstrated ongoing continuous education in computing systems, hardware/software structure, while recognizing the limitations and creating improvements of the existing robotic process systems

EDUCATION AND/OR TRAINING:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Tier One Parts, or OEM Automotive Paint Shop operation
• Experience in utilization of mechanic aptitude for performing any mechanical component repair or replacement, in addition to having knowledge of PLC communications and other robotic peripheral equipment.
• Experience with Fanuc robots and programming preferred (PaintTool simulation software)

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Office environment and production environment
• Must work in manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, cold and noise
• Fast paced production area with moving objects and sheet metal
• Occasional periods of standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Must wear appropriate PPE when and where required
• Frequent weeks working 40+ hours
• Frequent communication with people throughout the day

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird’s winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment. We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.

Qualifications

Education

Required

High School

Preferred

Associates

Experience

Required 5 years

Experience in a Tier One Parts, or OEM Automotive Paint Shop operation

Preferred

Experience with Fanuc robots and programming (PaintTool simulation software)