Gel Coater L3W

RJ Dougherty Associates LLC•Edgewater, FL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Everglades Boats is seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Gel Coater with proven marine manufacturing experience to join its overnight production team. This is not an entry-level role. The position requires technical knowledge of gel coat application, awareness of environmental controls, and a commitment to producing consistent, high-gloss finishes that meet the standards of a premium offshore brand. The work takes place in a non-climate-controlled composite manufacturing environment, with frequent exposure to fumes, fiberglass dust, and airborne particles. The production environment is loud and requires hearing protection. The schedule is Sunday through Wednesday, 4:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.; weekend and overtime requirements may arise based on production needs. The role includes standing for shifts of 10 or more hours and frequently bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and working in and around molds. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds is required. Candidates must be able to wear a respirator and required PPE for extended periods and work safely in potentially hazardous conditions.

Requirements

At least two years of gel coat application experience in marine manufacturing or a premium composite environment.
Demonstrable experience as a gel coater or in a similar role in a boat manufacturing environment.
Experience producing high-quality cosmetic finishes in boat building or similar industries; marine experience is preferred.
Strong working knowledge of gel coat chemistry, catalyst ratios, cure times, and environmental impacts on finish quality.
Experience operating and maintaining professional gel coat spray systems.
Ability to read and follow detailed build specifications and production instructions.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining quality and pace.
Strong attention to detail and pride in workmanship.
Ability to wear a respirator and required PPE for extended periods in a non-climate-controlled environment.
Ability to stand for extended shifts of 10 or more hours.
Ability to frequently bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and work in and around molds.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work safely and efficiently in potentially hazardous conditions while wearing required PPE.

Nice To Haves

Experience in premium offshore or performance boat manufacturing.
Experience with color matching and custom pigmentation.
Familiarity with composite quality standards and cosmetic inspection processes.
A track record of low rework rates and high first-pass quality.

Responsibilities

Prepare molds to premium cosmetic standards, including inspection, cleaning, waxing, masking, and staging.
Mix gel coat materials, pigments, and catalysts accurately according to manufacturer specifications and internal quality requirements.
Apply gel coat using professional spray equipment to meet established thickness, coverage, and finish standards.
Monitor environmental conditions to ensure proper curing and surface integrity.
Verify coating thickness and consistency using appropriate measuring tools.
Identify, troubleshoot, and correct surface defects such as fisheyes, sags, pinholes, air entrapment, dry spray, and color variation.
Perform detailed touch-ups and cosmetic corrections to meet Everglades’ premium finish expectations.
Maintain and troubleshoot spray equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
Coordinate with laminators, mold prep technicians, and quality control to maintain production flow and cosmetic integrity.
Maintain a clean, organized, and professional workspace aligned with 5S and safety standards.
Follow PPE, safety protocols, and hazardous material handling procedures.