Metal Finishing & Coatings Intern
Metal Finishing & Coatings Intern
Location: Dallas Metal Fabricators & Maintenance, Inc.
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM | Up to 30 Hours Per Week
Compensation: $12.00 per hour
About the Internship
Dallas Metal Fabricators & Maintenance is a fourth-generation architectural metal fabrication company specializing in fabrication, finishing, and installation services. This internship provides hands-on experience in surface preparation, painting, specialty coatings, and metal finishing processes used in commercial construction and architectural metalwork.
Responsibilities
- Assist with surface preparation, including grinding, sanding, polishing, and cleaning metal components
- Support paint, coating, and specialty finish applications under supervision
- Help prepare materials for finishing through masking, staging, and handling
- Assist with quality inspections to ensure finished products meet company standards
- Learn proper material handling and finishing techniques
- Help maintain finishing equipment, tools, and work areas
- Support production teams in meeting project schedules and quality requirements
- Follow all safety procedures related to coatings, chemicals, and finishing operations
Learning Opportunities
Interns will gain practical experience in:
- Surface preparation techniques similar to autobody repair and refinishing
- Industrial painting and specialty coating applications
- Metal polishing and decorative architectural finishes
- Quality control and defect identification
- Proper use of finishing materials, tools, and equipment
- Understanding how finishing impacts appearance, durability, and installation success
- Career opportunities within manufacturing, coatings, and construction industries
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a college, technical program, or workforce development program
- Interest in painting, autobody, coatings, manufacturing, construction, or skilled trades
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
- Ability to work in a hands-on, physically active environment
- Willingness to learn and follow established processes
- Dependable, punctual, and team-oriented
Work Environment
This internship takes place in an active fabrication and finishing shop environment. Interns will work around metal materials, industrial coatings, finishing equipment, and fabrication operations. Safety training and supervision will be provided. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, have an eye for detail, and take pride in producing high-quality finished products.
Expectations for Success
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality
- Maintain a positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment
- Take pride in craftsmanship and attention to detail
- Work effectively with finishers, fabricators, and supervisors
- Ask questions and seek opportunities to develop new skills
- Accept feedback constructively and apply it to future work