Shepherd Foster

Coater Technician

First Solar

01.2023 - 03.2025

I started in finishing, then received my GED based on company guidelines, upon receiving my GED I applied for COATER Tech position and received it and I loved it and continued to try to advance myself, until I couldn’t.
Operated and maintained various types of machines, including but not limited to CNC machines, lathes, mills, and presses
Performed routine inspections on machines to ensure proper functioning and made necessary adjustments or repairs as needed
Followed blueprints, work orders, or other specifications to set up machines for production runs
Monitored machine operations during production to detect any issues or malfunctions and took corrective actions promptly
Maintained accurate records of production output, downtime, and quality control checks
Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot problems and optimize machine performance
Implemented safety protocols and followed all company policies to maintain a safe working environment
Prepared and cleaned metal surfaces for powder coating by sanding, degreasing, and masking
Applied powder coating to various metal surfaces using electrostatic spray guns
Operated curing ovens to ensure proper adhesion and finish of powder-coated products
Inspected finished products for quality control, making necessary touch-ups or rework as needed
Maintained inventory of powder coatings and other supplies, ensuring availability for production needs
Collaborated with team members to prioritize workload and meet production deadlines
Followed safety protocols and maintained a clean work environment at all times
Troubleshot equipment issues and performed routine maintenance to keep machinery in optimal condition
Implemented process improvements that resulted in XX% reduction in defects or rejections
Trained new employees on proper powder coating techniques and safety procedures
Assisted with the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the powder coating department
Worked closely with engineers and designers to ensure accurate interpretation of specifications for custom projects
Optimized workflow by implementing batch processing methods, increasing productivity by XX%
Maintained accurate records of daily production output, material usage, and equipment maintenance activities
Participated in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing waste
Provided input on equipment upgrades or replacements based on observed performance issues
Resolved customer complaints related to product appearance or quality through effective communication
Conducted regular inspections of powders used in the coating process to identify potential contamination or degradation
Implemented safety measures to minimize exposure to hazardous materials during the powder coating process