Job Description
LaX Industries LLC Spring Grove, MN Position Summary LaX Industries is a full-service steel fabrication company specializing in structural steel, energy infrastructure, and industrial coating solutions. We are seeking an experienced Paint Line and Powder Coating Supervisor to lead our coating operations. This hands-on leadership role oversees both liquid paint and powder coating processes to ensure high-quality finishes, efficient production, safety compliance, and on-time delivery for fabricated metal products. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in both powder coating and liquid paint systems, along with proven team leadership skills in a fabrication or manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Management Directly supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate a team of paint line operators, powder coaters, and support staff. Manage daily shift schedules, staffing levels, and workload distribution. Conduct performance reviews, coaching, and disciplinary actions as needed. Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Production & Process Oversight Oversee the full coating process, including surface preparation (blasting, cleaning, pretreatment), liquid painting, powder application, and curing. Manage both automated and manual paint lines and powder coating booths/ovens. Optimize workflow, reduce downtime, minimize color-change times, and meet daily/weekly production targets. Coordinate closely with fabrication, welding, assembly, and shipping departments. Troubleshoot equipment issues with guns, booths, conveyors, washers, and ovens. Quality Control Ensure consistent, durable finishes that meet customer specifications, industry standards (e.g., AAMA, Qualicoat), and LaX Industries quality requirements. Perform inspections, thickness testing, adhesion tests, and visual checks. Address defects quickly, implement corrective actions, and maintain detailed quality records. Safety & Compliance Enforce all safety protocols, including proper PPE usage, hazardous material handling, ventilation, and environmental regulations. Lead safety training and maintain a clean, organized 5S work environment. Ensure compliance with EPA, OSHA, and company policies regarding coatings and waste management. Maintenance & Inventory Oversee preventive maintenance and repairs of all paint and powder coating equipment. Manage inventory of powders, paints, chemicals, masking materials, and spare parts. Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams on equipment upgrades. Required Qualifications Experience 4+ years of hands-on experience in powder coating and/or liquid paint line operations. 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role in a manufacturing or metal fabrication setting. Strong background in surface preparation (sandblasting, chemical pretreatment) and curing processes. Education & Skills High school diploma or GED required; technical certification in coatings or manufacturing preferred. Ability to read blueprints, work orders, and technical specifications. Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, quality systems, and continuous improvement tools. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Physical Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in a dusty or paint-filled environment. Willingness to work flexible shifts, including occasional overtime. Preferred Qualifications Experience in structural steel, energy, agricultural, or heavy industrial fabrication. Familiarity with automated conveyorized lines. Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
Reports To Fabrication Operations Director/ Plant Manager Pay:
$25.00 - $30.00 per hour Benefits:
401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Profit sharing Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Work Location:
In person