Prefinish Lead Technician

Schwieters Companies•Hugo, MN

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Schwieters Companies is a family-owned and oriented company specializing in millwork, doors, cabinets, and hardware. Our team offers a turnkey solution for these interior finishes including procurement, pre-fabrication, delivery, and installation. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, we have built and maintained strong customer relationships for over 40 years. Our team and operations are fundamentally rooted in our 4 keys: relationships, impression, safety, and efficiency. Here at Schwieters, communication is at the heart of our business model which is why we aim to make sure that every employee is heard and feels valued. Relationship building is paramount in what we do every day for both our team and our customers. Schwieters Companies is seeking a detail-orientated Prefinish Lead Technician for our prefinish department. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing materials, operating our automated paintline finishing systems and spray guns, monitoring the curing process, and ensuring a high-quality finish on all products. The ideal candidate has experience with automated paint/coating machinery, a strong eye for quality, and a commitment to maintaining safety standards. If you are looking for an opportunity to advance with a growing company and enjoy seeing the beauty of craftsmanship come to life, this is the company for you.

Requirements

Lead/supervisor experience
1–3 years of experience operating automated finishing equipment or working in an industrial paint environment (woodworking, cabinetry, or automotive manufacturing preferred)
Understanding of liquid coatings, fluid delivery systems (HVLP, airless, air-assisted), and curing technologies
Ability to consistently match colors and identify minor surface imperfections under production lighting
Candidate must have a good work history
Self-motivated and self-directed team player and team builder
Capable of standing for extended periods of time and lifting 50+ pounds
Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen (this is a safety-sensitive position)

Nice To Haves

Experience with specific longline/flatline brands preferred (ie: Superfici, Cefla, Giardina)
5S and lean manufacturing knowledge a plus
Comfortable using a forklift (previous forklift experience preferred)
Flexible in working overtime when necessary

Responsibilities

Oversee fewer than 15 team members, lead processes, provide direction and production goals under the direction of the Warehouse Manager
Set up, program, and operate automated shortline & longline machines, sanding units, and UV/IR curing ovens
Mix, thin, and monitor finishes (paints, stains, sealers, topcoats) to correct viscosities using standard measuring tools
Inspect incoming raw materials and finished parts for defects like runs, sags, dust inclusions, or uneven coating thickness
Operate, set up, and maintain industrial spray equipment, ensuring correct paint or stain formulas and coatings are applied according to work orders
Identify and resolve mechanical or finish-quality issues quickly (e.g., adjusting gun pressure, line speed, or temperature settings)
Order paint and stain supplies while maintaining inventory levels
Maintenance of paint guns and pump
Match stain samples
Pick material using a stand/sit forklift
Use a scan gun to check inventory and properly adjust where material is at
Have constant communication with Warehouse Manager on progress with work orders
Lead warehouse order fulfillment while collaborating with team members to maximize efficiency and achieve 100% on-time and in full delivery
Other duties as assigned