Painter (Dragonhide Coating)
Trail-Eze | Mitchell, SD
Company Overview:
Join the Trail-Eze family! Founded in 1963 and proudly family-owned in Mitchell, SD, Trail-Eze has been building quality trailers for over 60 years. We value hard work, craftsmanship, and our employees—our team is the heart of everything we do. Come be part of a company where your skills are appreciated, your career can grow, and your contributions make a difference.
Job Summary:
Trail-Eze is seeking a skilled and dependable Painter (Dragonhide Coating) to apply high-performance protective coatings to our trailers. This role focuses on applying our premium Dragonhide undercoating system—a specialized, high-durability coating designed to protect trailers from extreme abrasion, impact, and corrosion. This position requires strong attention to detail, consistency in coating application, and a commitment to quality and safety.
What is Dragonhide?
Dragonhide is a premium, rust-inhibiting protective coating applied to the entire underside (chassis/frame) of Trail-Eze trailers. Applied over an epoxy primer and finished with a PPG 2-part poly top coat, Dragonhide is engineered for extreme-duty performance—protecting against road debris, scratching, chipping, and corrosion. This system is backed by a 5-year warranty and plays a critical role in preserving trailer durability and structural integrity.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Apply Dragonhide coating, primers, paints, and other finishes using spray equipment, brushes, or rollers
- Prepare surfaces by ensuring proper cleaning and readiness, including working with blasted steel and primed components
- Mix paints and coatings to specified consistency and monitor application and drying processes
- Inspect coated surfaces for uniformity, coverage, adhesion, and overall finish quality
- Perform touch-ups and corrections to meet Trail-Eze quality standards
- Operate and maintain painting and coating equipment safely and effectively
- Work on trailer undersides and components, ensuring full and consistent coverage
- Lift, push, and pull materials up to 50+ pounds
- Climb ladders and wear required PPE, including a full-face respirator
- Maintain a high level of attention to detail—preventing defects before they reach the customer
- Work independently and demonstrate strong decision-making and self-motivation
Qualifications and Skills:
- High school diploma required
- 3–5 years of painting or industrial coating experience preferred (training available for the right candidate)
- Experience with spray equipment or industrial coatings is a plus
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Commitment to workplace safety and proper PPE use
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
- Manufacturing/shop environment
- Frequent standing, bending, lifting, and working on ladders
- Ability to work on and around large equipment and trailer frames
- Safe operation of painting and coating tools required
Benefits and Schedule:
- Competitive pay
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Monday–Thursday schedule with weekends off
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment
- Opportunities for long-term career growth
Why Trail-Eze?
-
- Family-owned company with a proud 60+ year history
- Strong reputation for craftsmanship and quality
- Work-life balance with a 4-day work week
- Be part of a team where your skills and dedication are valued