Thermal Spray Technician - Field Service (Travel US & Intl. 75%+)

Job Title: Thermal Spray Technician I (SHIP)

Classification: Full-time, Hourly Non-Exempt

Reports To: Project Superintendent

Location: Remote work sites – US and International (Field Service Role – Travels to Job Sites 75%+ - Reports to Houston Shop when Not Traveling)

Job Overview:

The Thermal Spray Technician I (SHIP) will support shipboard field operations involving the preparation and application of thermal spray coatings on various surfaces aboard Naval vessels, including but not limited to steel decks, structural components, and marine equipment. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals who can thrive in a dynamic, travel-based environment, often working in confined or elevated spaces and under varying environmental conditions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong mechanical aptitude, willingness to follow direction, and commitment to safety and quality standards. Prior experience in industrial or marine settings is helpful, especially involving sandblasting, coating, or thermal spray technologies. This position requires flexibility, excellent attendance, and a strong work ethic in support of complex field jobs at customer locations.

Responsibilities:

• Thermal Spray Application: Assist in the application of thermal spray coatings to vessel surfaces such as steel decks and other structural ship components, ensuring adherence to military and customer specifications.
• Surface Preparation: Perform sandblasting and surface cleaning aboard Naval ships to prepare metal substrates for thermal spray coating.
• Shipboard Readiness: Work in shipyard and onboard environments, including confined spaces, scaffolding, and elevated platforms, while adhering to all shipboard safety protocols.
• Precision Measuring: Learn and utilize measuring tools such as micrometers and calipers to confirm proper coating thickness and surface quality.
• Equipment Handling: Assist with transporting, setting up, and maintaining portable thermal spray equipment at shipyard or vessel locations.
• Documentation: Complete required documentation and logs related to field operations and coating activities in accordance with company and customer requirements.
• Safety Compliance: Rigorously follow all field safety procedures, including the use of PPE such as full-face respirators, coveralls, and steel toe boots, ensuring personal and team safety.
• Quality Assurance: Support quality control inspections of coated areas to identify defects or rework needs in compliance with strict quality standards.
• Representation: Represent the company professionally while working directly at military or customer sites, maintaining a positive and cooperative attitude.
• Team Support: Take direction from field leads or senior technicians, assist in equipment staging and cleanup, and contribute to team efficiency during all phases of the job.
• Flexibility and Travel: Travel to domestic Navy shipyard locations for extended periods as needed and adapt to fluctuating job schedules and environments.
• Continuous Learning: Participate in company training programs to improve technical knowledge, safety awareness, and quality procedures in thermal spray operations.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to learn thermal spray operations to include the Wire Arc, APS, Flame Spray and HVOF process.
• Experience working with metals, especially in a machine shop or industrial setting preferred.
• Ability to learn and become familiar with precision measuring instruments, such as micrometers and calipers.
• Attention to detail and ability to ensure high quality and accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to learn troubleshooting to identify and resolve issues with thermal spray equipment.
• Reliability – must be able to consistently maintain good attendance and punctuality.
• Good communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members and managers.
• Ability to adapt to change and maintain flexibility to changes in workload and responsibilities.
• Safety awareness and commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.
• Must be a "US Person" per International Traffic in Arms Regulations contractual requirements: A US person who is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment criminal background check, drug-screen, eye exam, hearing exam, and respirator test (health screenings required if applicable for job safety compliance purposes).

Travel and Other Requirements:

• Ability to Travel (75%+) is Required: Frequent travel is required, including international travel, to supervise operations at various remote work sites.
• Valid Passport and Driver’s License: Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and passport to support travel requirements.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Exposure to a repair or manufacturing, shipyard or skilled craft environment is preferred; prior machine shop experience is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience assisting with machining operations and thermal spray technology is preferred.

Physical Requirements: Physical Capabilities for Shipyard Operations: The role demands the ability to navigate diverse and challenging environments on naval vessels during the various project phases. This includes but is not limited to:

• Climbing ladders and navigating stairs, bending, reaching overhead, kneeling, crouching, and walking on uneven or slippery surfaces. Exposure to noise, vibration, and variable weather environments.
• May sometimes require accessing work areas at heights, in confined spaces and maneuvering through tight, restricted areas to assess progress and ensure safety standards.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive manual tasks for extended periods.
• Strength to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds unassisted, repeatedly throughout a shift.
• Capability to pass a respiratory medical evaluation, including hearing and vision exams, and meet all necessary physical qualifications.
• Ability to wear and work comfortably in required personal protective equipment (PPE), including a full-face respirator or helmet PAPR (Powered Air-Purifying Respirator), protective coveralls, gloves, and steel-toe boots, for prolonged periods.
• Coordination and manual dexterity to safely operate machinery, tools, and equipment while maintaining focus on ergonomics and safety.

When requested by employees, and when possible, reasonable accommodation may be provided to help individuals with disabilities perform their essential job functions. Kymera is an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging diversity in the workplace. EOE: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability.