Iron Prepping Specialist

Summary

The Iron Prepping Specialist prepares iron components for finishing in a workshop environment, ensuring surfaces are clean, textured, and protected for subsequent water-based finishes. The role uses mechanical and chemical methods to remove rust, create aged textures, and apply primers or inhibitors while collaborating with finishers to meet design specifications. The specialist maintains high standards of craftsmanship, safety, and quality for handcrafted furniture and architectural pieces.

Responsibilities

• Inspect iron components for defects, rust, and surface inconsistencies prior to finishing
• Clean and prepare metal surfaces using mechanical and chemical methods to ensure adhesion of water-based finishes
• Perform sanding, grinding, wire brushing, scuffing, and sandblasting to create texture and aged effects
• Apply rust inhibitors, primers, or sealers and mask or protect areas not to be finished
• Collaborate with finishers to understand finishing requirements and ensure surface readiness
• Maintain a clean and safe shop environment and adhere to material handling and PPE standards

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in metal preparation, fabrication, or furniture finishing
• Proficiency with sanding, grinding, wire wheels, pneumatic grinders, and sandblasting equipment
• Skilled in rust removal using degreasers, solvents, and rust-removal agents and in simulating aged patinas
• Understanding of how surface preparation impacts paint and stain adhesion and performance
• Ability to handle components up to 75 lbs, perform detailed visual inspections, and sustain repetitive tool operation
• Strong attention to detail, craftsmanship, and familiarity with antique-style furniture preferred