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Job Description
Cannon Steel is seeking an experienced Industrial Painter to prime fabricated structural steel at our facility. This role is responsible for surface preparation and application of primer coatings to beams, columns, and miscellaneous steel in accordance with project specifications and quality standards. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience priming structural steel in a fabrication shop environment and works efficiently without sacrificing coating quality. Key Responsibilities Prepare steel surfaces for priming by cleaning, degreasing, and removing mill scale, rust, weld spatter, and contaminants (hand tool, power tool, and/or blast preparation as specified). Apply primer coatings to structural and miscellaneous steel using airless spray, conventional spray, brush, and roller methods. Mix coatings to manufacturer specifications and monitor pot life, viscosity, and reducer ratios. Verify and document surface prep standards (e.g., SSPC-SP levels) and dry film thickness (DFT) using a mil gauge. Mask, tag, and protect connection surfaces, faying surfaces, and areas designated to remain uncoated. Inspect finished work for runs, sags, holidays, and uniform coverage; perform touch-up as needed. Maintain spray equipment, lines, and tips; perform routine cleaning and minor troubleshooting. Monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dew point) and confirm they fall within coating windows before applying. Move and stage steel for priming using overhead cranes, forklifts, jib hoists, and rigging (as qualified). Load and unload structural steel on and off trailers safely, including staging, banding, blocking, and securing loads for transport. Operate a SkyTrak (telehandler) and other material handling equipment to move, stage, and position steel. Keep the paint area, booth, and equipment clean and organized; handle and dispose of coatings and solvents per safety and environmental requirements. Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and PPE protocols. Required Qualifications 2+ years of experience priming or coating structural steel in a fabrication or industrial setting. Proficiency with airless and conventional spray equipment. Working knowledge of surface preparation standards and primer/coating systems. Experience loading and unloading structural steel on trailers, including proper staging and securing of loads. Experience operating a SkyTrak (telehandler) or similar material handling equipment. Ability to read and follow project specifications, coating data sheets, and work orders. Reliable, safety-focused, and able to work independently and as part of a crew. Preferred Qualifications Experience with
SSPC/NACE
surface prep and DFT measurement. Abrasive blasting experience. Overhead crane, forklift, and/or rigging experience. Familiarity with shop priming for steel erection projects. Physical Requirements & Working Conditions Frequently lift and carry up to 50 lbs; occasionally up to 75 lbs with assistance. Stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach overhead, and climb for extended periods throughout the shift. Sustained use of hands and arms for spraying, brushing, and equipment handling; ability to maintain steady control of spray equipment. Work in a fabrication shop environment with exposure to noise, dust, fumes, solvents, paint overspray, and varying temperatures; some work may be performed outdoors or in unconditioned space. Wear required PPE for the full shift, including respirator, eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, and protective clothing. Must be able to pass and maintain respirator fit testing and medical clearance for respirator use. Ability to work at heights, on ladders/lifts, and around overhead crane operations. Color and visual acuity sufficient to detect coating defects, coverage gaps, and proper film build. Ability to work scheduled shifts and overtime as production demands require.