Finishing Technician

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:The Finishing Technician is responsible for taking direction from the Technical Manager and Business Development Manager on finishing production and research and development formulations, execution of production and sample leathers, and development of new leathers in the finishing department.ESSENTIAL DUTIES:Oversee Production FormulationsEnsure machines, including new spray lines, are running correctly each dayEnsure mixers and matchers are matching colors correctly and mixing up finishes properlyTroubleshoot Finish formula issues as well as evaluate the performance, durability and aesthetic appeal of finished leatherConduct lab-scale testing and reformulate finishes when problems arise, then going back to sample scale if neededAnalyze results of those trials and scale up as neededProvide revised formulas to production for their files.Maintain detailed records of formulation recipes, testing results, and process parameters.Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, recommendations, and project updates to stakeholdersFix out of spec mills of leatherProduct replacement – reformulate formulas when suppliers discontinue or offer replacement chemicalsLead finishing Research and Development team, working with Technical managerDesign and bring to market new leathers, working with Technical managerWork with sales and Lead finishing technician on priority samples and microbusiness; help arrange machines and schedules to meet customer needsHelp train new finish technicians on how to make leather.  Provide training and technical support to production staff and other team members involved in the manufacturing processShoe Dressing, make and formulate as needed for Red Wing Shoe CompanyChemical ordering: work with buyer to provide forecast of chemicals needed in production and as well as any samples needed