Founded in 1921, Tnemec Company, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high-performance protective coatings. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Tnemec is known for its durable and reliable coatings that protect critical infrastructure, such as bridges and water tanks. Committed to innovation and sustainability, Tnemec continues to set industry standards with its advanced coatings technology.
Primary Purpose
The
Coatings Testing Technician will support various projects within
Tnemec’s Research and Development (R&D) Testing Lab, gaining hands-on experience in coatings technology. The role involves assisting in the testing, evaluation, and improvement of Tnemec’s high-performance coatings, contributing to the development of innovative products while ensuring the highest standards of
quality and performance.
General Description
This position is within the
Testing Lab and operates under the general supervision of the
Testing Lab Supervisor. The
Coatings Testing Technician is responsible for conducting various physical tests and evaluations on a variety of substrates to assess the properties, performance, and conformance of our coatings to the industry standards. The role involves ensuring accurate testing procedures to evaluate coatings’ durability, adhesion, and other key performance metrics, supporting the development of Tnemec's high-performance coatings.
Duties And Responsibilities
- Perform various exposure evaluations.
- Create schedules and establish timelines for individual projects, ensuring proper planning and timely execution.
- Prepare substrates and apply coatings to various test panels, primarily on steel substrates, using various application methods (brush, roller, airless, portable equipment) in line with established methods.
- Develop proficiency in specialized coating application techniques and testing methods, ensuring consistency and accuracy in results.
- Rotate panels daily for routine testing to evaluate the performance and durability of coatings under various environmental conditions.
- Perform daily duties, such as conducting EIS tests and accurately recording the information into the relevant projects.
- Check wet film and dry film thickness (DFT) measurements to ensure coatings meet required standards.
- Organize test data in lab books and transfer it to computer systems for further analysis and documentation.
- Understand basic paint knowledge, including mix ratios, application techniques, and the differences between various coating types (e.g., epoxies, polyurethanes).
Essential Job Functions
- Frequent standing or walking.
- Computer dexterity for data entry and analysis.
- Occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 100 pounds of weight.
- Operates laboratory equipment with precision and care.
- Occasional requirement to utilize a respirator for safety.
- Operation of drum dolly equipment for handling materials.
- Utilize various Tnemec Testing Methods to ensure accurate and consistent results.
Equipment Operation
The following equipment, tools, and resources are utilized in this position:
- Scales
- Mixers
- Drum Dolly
- Lab Testing Equipment
- Color Computer
- Equipment for Various Test Procedures
Coatings Application Equipment
Knowledge And Experience
The following experience is required for successfully performing this job:
- Ability to work well with others and be a collaborative team member.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Self-motivated with a high level of initiative and the ability to work independently.
- Prior painting experience is preferred to understand coating application equipment and processes.
- Experience with industry test methods and equipment is a plus.
- NACE Level 1 CIP Certification preferred, but not mandatory.
- Basic computer skills for data entry and analysis.
Education And Training
The following educational qualifications and skills are required and preferred for this position:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Math proficiency: Must be able to pass a math proficiency test to ensure accurate measurements and calculations in testing procedures.
- Computer proficiency: Basic computer skills required for data entry, record-keeping, and transferring test data into systems (preferred).
- NACE Level 1 CIP Certification: Preferred, but not mandatory. This certification demonstrates a fundamental understanding of coating inspection processes and quality control.
Hazardous, Safety, And Environmental Factors
All associates at
Tnemec Company, Inc. will undergo comprehensive training in hazardous materials handling, safety precautions, and procedures to ensure a safe and compliant work environment. These training programs are designed to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements, prioritizing the health and safety of all employees while promoting environmental stewardship.