Paint Finishing Specialist

Rootlab is a multidisciplinary design and fabrication firm specializing in large-scale, custom projects for museums, cultural institutions, and immersive attractions. We are seeking to hire a Full-time Paint Finishing Specialist for a 90 day period. In this role, you will support paint/finishing needs, ensuring projects meet Rootlab's high-quality standards while maintaining schedules, coordinating materials, and supporting the team in a fast-paced creative environment.

Job Type: Full-time, 90 Day Contract, with potential for extension contingent on shop capacity and performance

Pay: $20-25/hr, based on experience

Key Responsibilities

• Prep and finish project components according to Work Order instructions and fabrication drawings for a wide range of materials including wood, metal, plastics, and composites.
• Archive finish instructions and material documentation in Rootlab's project archive
• Provide daily end of day progress reports to the Production Supervisor, including updates on status, delays, deadlines, and resource needs.
• Maintain inventory and stock materials, coordinating with Purchaser to ensure necessary materials are available in line with Production schedules for each project.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked paint and finish workspace.
• Identify and report tool damage or maintenance needs to the Facilities Manager.
• Demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to producing work that meets or exceeds project expectations.
• Follows Quality Control (QC) expectations as defined by the Director of Production and overseen by the Production Supervisor.
• Adheres to all shop safety procedures, including consistent use of PPE, and encourages compliance within the team.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced familiarity with high end finish materials, techniques, and quality control in a fabrication or production environment.
• Ability to maintain an even temperament under tight deadlines and stressful conditions.
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to foster a positive team environment.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and self-motivated.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the Matthews Paint System
• Previous experience managing paint/finish operations or supervising a finishing team.
• Cooperative, professional, and able to adapt quickly to shifting priorities.

Work Environment

• Ability to remain standing approximately 80% of the time on certain days.
• Occasional bending, stooping, squatting, and reaching.
• Work areas are not always climate controlled.
• Willingness to work overtime, nights, or weekends when required to meet project deadlines.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 50% company contribution.
• Paid time off and 8 paid holidays.
• 401k match after 1 year of employment.
• Yearly PPE allowance.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience with providing a smooth automotive style finish with paint and clear coat?
• Have you ever worked on museum exhibits, sculptures, furniture, or custom fabricated pieces (not walls or trim)?
• Do you have experience following spec sheets or color/finish samples to exact tolerances?
• Do you understand the differences between primer types, top coats, and clear coats for various substrates?
• Have you ever applied multi-layer or specialty finishes such as metallics, pearlescents, or high-gloss lacquers?

Ability to Commute:

• Houston, TX Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Houston, TX 77020: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person