Why are we recruiting?
We have invested in a state of the art powder coating paint plant and we are looking for somebody to ensure that it runs smoothly day to day. From ensuring there are SOP's in place, to ensuring relevant raw materials are on site to the management of the team of Team Leaders and Operators. You will 'own' this plant and be able to make your mark in helping it run efficiently.
Purpose of the Job
The Powder Coating Plant Leader is responsible for the safe, efficient, and high-quality operation of the internal powder coating facility. This role oversees daily production, staffing, quality control, equipment maintenance, stock control, and process improvement to ensure coated products meet company and customer standards while maintaining productivity and cost efficiency. The role also takes responsibility for ensuring compliance with all relevant statutory health, safety and environmental requirements.
Responsibilities
Operations Management
- Oversee daily operations of the powder coating plant including preparation, coating, curing, finishing and QC processes.
- Ensure production schedules are met in line with company manufacturing plans.
- Monitor throughput, productivity, and overall plant efficiency.
- Coordinate workflow between coating, fabrication, and assembly departments.
- Manage plant capacity, identify bottlenecks and define improvement initiatives to drive continuous improvement.
Quality Control
- Ensure all coated products meet internal quality standards and customer specifications.
- Implement and maintain quality procedures for coating thickness, adhesion, colour and finish quality.
- Investigate coating defects and implement corrective actions.
- Maintain records for quality checks and compliance. Ensuring traceability is retained.
Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Ensure the powder coating facility operates in compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Enforce safe handling of powders, chemicals, and equipment.
- Lead safety training and ensure PPE compliance.
- Maintain ventilation, filtration, and waste management systems.
Team Leadership
- Manage, train, and supervise powder coating operators and technicians.
- Set performance expectations and provide ongoing coaching.
- Schedule staff to meet production demands.
- Foster a culture of accountability, quality, and safety.
Equipment & Maintenance
- Ensure proper operation and maintenance of coating lines, spray booths, ovens, conveyors, and pre treatment systems.
- Coordinate preventative maintenance programs with OEM and other contractors.
- Work with maintenance teams to minimise downtime.
- Evaluate new equipment or process improvements.
Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve coating efficiency, finish quality, and material usage.
- Reduce powder waste and rework rates.
- Implement lean manufacturing practices where possible.
Inventory & Materials
- Manage powder inventory, chemicals, and consumables.
- Work with procurement to maintain adequate stock levels.
- Monitor powder usage and cost control.
Results/Measurables
- Production throughput, adherence to plan
- First-pass quality rate
- Rework/defect rates
- Powder consumption efficiency
- Equipment downtime
- On-time completion of production schedules
- Safety incident rates
Competencies and Personal Attributes
Required:
- Strong leadership and decision-making ability
- Detail-oriented with a focus on quality
- Safety-focused mindset
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Experience managing or supervising powder coating or finishing operations
- Strong understanding of powder coating processes and equipment
- Knowledge of surface preparation
- Leadership and team management experience
- Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
Preferred:
- Experience in manufacturing or metal fabrication environments
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing or continuous improvement
- Familiarity with quality systems and production metrics
The Package
- Basic salary of £45-50k per annum depending on experience
- 24 days holiday per annum, increasing by 1 each year for the first 4 years up to 28 + 8 bank holidays
- Part of the company growth bonus scheme
- Access to a Cash Health Plan
- Auto Enrolment pension scheme