How to Be Production Finisher/Painter - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Production Finisher/Painter is an important role in the manufacturing industry. It involves the application of a finishing coat of paint to products in order to protect them from corrosion and wear. This role is essential in ensuring that products last longer and look their best when displayed and sold.

The application of paint also affects the product's durability and aesthetic appeal, which can have a direct effect on customer satisfaction. In addition, the production finisher/painter is responsible for ensuring that all safety precautions are followed, as well as providing quality control to ensure the product meets the standards set by the company. Without the production finisher/painter, manufacturers would not be able to produce products of the highest quality, and thus lose potential customers.

Therefore, the production finisher/painter plays an important role in the success of the manufacturing industry.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer to hire Production Finishers/Painters with a high school diploma or equivalent.
Pursue a postsecondary education in a related field. Although a postsecondary degree is not always required, formal training in a related field can give applicants an edge over other candidates. Courses in painting, finishes, and other related topics may be available through a trade school, community college, or technical school.
Gain work experience. It is beneficial for applicants to have some prior work experience in the field. This experience may be obtained through internships, apprenticeships, or volunteer positions.
Consider certification. Although certification is not always required, many employers prefer to hire certified Production Finishers/Painters. Certification tests are available through organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
Apply for open positions. Once applicants have obtained the necessary education and experience, they can apply for open positions as Production Finishers/Painters. Applications may be submitted through online job boards or directly to employers.

The key to being a reliable and capable production finisher/painter is a combination of skill, knowledge, and attention to detail. A good painter should have a thorough understanding of the painting process and the materials they are using. They should also be familiar with the techniques and practices of surface preparation, application, and post-finishing processes.

Attention to detail is essential in order to ensure the finished product is of the highest quality. Good communication and organizational skills are also important for managing the painting process efficiently and for working effectively in a team. With the right skillset, knowledge, and attention to detail, a production finisher/painter can ensure a successful and reliable outcome.

You may want to check Automotive Color Matcher/Painter, Sign Painter, and Deck and Fence Painter for alternative.

Job Description

Gather, mix, and match paints according to customer specifications.
Sand and prepare surfaces prior to painting.
Operate spray guns, rollers, and other tools to apply paint to desired surfaces.
Monitor paint flow and equipment performance during painting process.
Inspect painted surfaces for defects and ensure quality of finished product.
Clean paint brushes, rollers, and other tools after use.
Dispose of excess paint and solvents in accordance with safety regulations.
Mask off areas to be painted and tape off areas to protect from overspray.
Mix colors and thin paint to desired consistency.
Follow safety guidelines while working with hazardous materials.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Attention to detail
Ability to read and interpret blueprints
Knowledge of color theory and color mixing
Ability to use hand and power tools
Knowledge of various painting techniques
Ability to identify and match paint colors
Knowledge of safe painting and finishing practices
Knowledge of surface preparation techniques
Ability to work in a team environment
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to use a respirator
Ability to use personal protective equipment (PPE)
Knowledge of painting and finishing supplies and materials

The role of a Production Finisher/Painter is to complete the final surface preparation and painting of products. To be successful in this role, it is essential to possess strong technical knowledge and skills. This includes knowledge of the various types of paints and coatings, the correct application techniques and the ability to accurately match colors and textures.

it is important to have excellent attention to detail to ensure that the finished product looks its best. The effects of having these skills will be seen in the quality of the finished product. A high level of craftsmanship will result in a product that looks professional, is durable and attractive, ultimately leading to customer satisfaction.

Paint Sprayer/Painter, Automotive Detailer/Painter, and Aircraft Paint Operations Technician/Painter are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the field of production finishing/painting?
Tell me about a time when you had to multi-task multiple production finishing/painting projects.
How do you stay organized when working on multiple production finishing/painting projects?
How would you go about properly preparing a surface for painting?
What techniques have you used to ensure paint finishes are even and consistent?
How do you troubleshoot issues with the painting process?
Describe a time when you had to work on a difficult painting project.
How do you manage the use of hazardous materials associated with the production finishing/painting process?
How do you ensure that safety protocols are followed throughout the production finishing/painting process?
What other skills do you bring to the production finishing/painting process?

Common Tools in Industry

Sander. A power tool used to smooth surfaces and remove material, such as paint or varnish. (e. g. palm sander)
Paintbrush. A tool used to apply paint to a surface. (e. g. paintbrush with synthetic bristles)
Heat Gun. A tool used to heat a surface for a variety of purposes, such as removing paint or varnish or drying a surface. (e. g. cordless heat gun)
Paint Roller. A tool used to quickly and evenly spread a coating of paint onto a flat surface. (e. g. foam paint roller)
Paint Sprayer. A tool used to quickly and evenly spray a coating of paint onto a flat surface. (e. g. airless paint sprayer)
Putty Knife. A tool used to fill in small gaps, cracks, and holes with putty or other material. (e. g. stainless steel putty knife)
Masking Tape. A type of tape used to cover areas that should not be painted or coated with a material. (e. g. blue painters tape)
Paint Thinner. A liquid used to thin or remove paint from surfaces or tools. (e. g. mineral spirits)
Sandpaper. A type of paper coated with abrasive material used to sand down surfaces and remove material such as paint or varnish. (e. g. silicon carbide sandpaper)
Glue Gun. A tool used to quickly and evenly apply hot glue onto a variety of surfaces for a variety of purposes. (e. g. cordless glue gun)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
American Coatings Association (ACA)
American Industrial Finishers Society (AIFS)
Powder Coating Institute (PCI)
Surface Finishing Technology Association (SFTA)
Industrial Finishing Association (IFA)
Society of Protective Coatings (SSPC)
National Paint and Coatings Association (NPCA)
Finishing Industry Association of North America (FIANA)
Automotive Refinish Paint Association (ARPA)

We also have Automotive Paint Mixer/Painter, Decal/Stencil Painter, and Automotive Refinishing Technician/Painter jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Paint Spraying. The process of applying paint to a surface using a spray gun.
Paint Mixing. The process of adding colorants, solvents and other materials to a paint base to create a desired color and texture.
Priming. The process of applying a primer to a surface prior to painting, in order to provide a better surface for the paint to adhere to.
Sanding. The process of smoothing a surface by sanding with sandpaper or other abrasive material.
Finishing. The process of applying a finish coat to a completed project in order to protect it and give it a desired appearance.
Lacquering. The process of applying a layer of lacquer over a painted surface in order to enhance its appearance and protect it from the elements.
Buffing. The process of polishing a surface with a buffing wheel or machine in order to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
Airbrushing. The process of spraying paint through an airbrush onto a surface in order to create a smooth, even finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Production Finisher/Painter?

The primary role of a Production Finisher/Painter is to apply protective finishes, such as paint, varnish, lacquer, and sealant, to manufactured products and components.

What qualifications are needed to be a Production Finisher/Painter?

To become a Production Finisher/Painter, individuals need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and experience with painting, coating, and finishing techniques. They also need to be able to read and understand instructions and possess good manual dexterity.

What tools are used by Production Finishers/Painters?

Production Finishers/Painters use a variety of tools including power sanders, paint sprayers, rollers, brushes, and hand-held grinders. They also use safety equipment such as goggles and respirators.

What safety protocols should be followed by Production Finishers/Painters?

Production Finishers/Painters should always wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, when working with hazardous materials. They should also be mindful of proper ventilation and understand the risks associated with working with solvents and other hazardous substances.

How much does a Production Finisher/Painter earn annually?

The average annual salary for a Production Finisher/Painter is approximately $40,000. The salary can vary depending on experience level and the industry they are working in.