Technical Finishing Engineer

Job Title: Technical Finishing Engineer

Department: Operations / Manufacturing
Reports To: Engineering Manager / VP of Operations
Location: SSW Premier, LLC – Henderson, TN Manufacturing Facility

Position Summary

The Technical Finishing Engineer is responsible for the operation, optimization, and continuous improvement of finishing processes supporting the manufacture of HVAC components at SSW Premier, LLC. This role has primary accountability for powder coating systems, surface pre‑treatment processes, wastewater treatment operations, and related quality systems to ensure finished components meet customer, regulatory, and internal standards.

The position partners closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams to drive process stability, efficiency, compliance, and product quality in a high‑volume manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Finishing & Coating Processes

• Provide technical leadership and oversight of powder coating operations, including application methods, curing, adhesion, film thickness control, and defect prevention.
• Optimize coating line parameters to improve yield, consistency, throughput, and cost efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve coating defects such as poor adhesion, pinholes, orange peel, discoloration, or uneven coverage.
• Support new product introductions, coating trials, and finish development for HVAC components and related metal parts.
• Lead and support a team of powder coating technicians responsible for operating and manually applying coatings and maintaining related equipment.

Pre‑Treatment Systems

• Manage and optimize surface pre‑treatment processes, including cleaning, degreasing, rinsing, and conversion coatings.
• Monitor chemical concentrations, bath conditions, and system performance to ensure consistent coating quality.
• Develop, maintain, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pre‑treatment systems.
• Collaborate with chemical suppliers and vendors to improve performance, reduce cost, and minimize environmental impact.
• Lead a small hourly team responsible for pre‑treatment system operation and upkeep.

Wastewater Treatment & Environmental Compliance

• Oversee wastewater treatment systems associated with finishing and pre‑treatment operations.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
• Monitor discharge parameters, sampling, testing, and required documentation.
• Support internal audits, regulatory inspections, and environmental reporting requirements.
• Drive initiatives to reduce water usage, chemical consumption, and waste generation.

Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement

• Support and maintain quality management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or similar).
• Develop process controls, inspection methods, and documentation for finishing operations.
• Analyze quality data, scrap, and rework trends to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Participate in internal audits, customer audits, and corrective action processes.
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Training

• Work closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, and Supply Chain teams.
• Train operators and technicians on finishing processes, quality standards, and safety requirements.
• Provide technical support for equipment upgrades, line modifications, and capital projects.
• Attend industry‑specific training related to powder coating, surface pre‑treatment, and finishing technologies to continuously improve plant capability and team skillsets.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Materials, Mechanical, Industrial, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• 3–7 years of experience in industrial finishing or coating operations, preferably supporting metal components or HVAC‑related manufacturing.
• Strong working knowledge of:
  • Powder coating systems and application processes
  • Surface pre‑treatment chemistry and equipment
  • Industrial wastewater treatment systems
  • Quality management systems and process controls
• Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in HVAC component manufacturing, metal fabrication, or high‑volume discrete manufacturing.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or similar standards.
• Knowledge of environmental permitting and compliance requirements.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
• Experience working directly with coating, equipment, or chemical suppliers.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Hands‑on, detail‑oriented approach to process optimization.
• Ability to interpret technical data, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Effective communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing plant environment with exposure to chemicals, heat, and industrial equipment.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Occasional off‑shift or weekend support as needed for trials, system issues, audits, or team leadership responsibilities.