Spray Shop Prepper – Wood Surface Preparation Technician

Location: London
Salary:£45,000-£50,000
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time

About the Client

Simon Acres Recruitment are representing a well-established and growing bespoke joinery and furniture manufacturer, specialising in high-quality, made-to-measure projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a quality-focused manufacturing business where exceptional preparation, finishing standards and attention to detail are central to the successful delivery of every project.

About the Role

The Spray Shop Prepper is responsible for preparing timber, MDF, veneered and manufactured components to the highest possible standard before spray finishing.

This is a crucial role within the finishing process, ensuring surfaces are correctly inspected, repaired, sanded, filled and prepared for primer and topcoat application.

Working within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, the successful candidate will maintain high standards of workmanship, productivity and housekeeping while working closely with Spray Painters and the wider Production Team.

Key Responsibilities:

Surface Preparation

• Prepare MDF, solid timber, veneered panels and other substrates for spray finishing.
• Sand components using both hand-sanding techniques and mechanical sanding equipment.
• Apply appropriate wood fillers, repair compounds and finishing materials.
• Repair dents, chips, machining marks and other surface defects prior to spraying.
• Ensure all surfaces are prepared to the required quality standard before progressing to the next production stage.

Production

• Work to production schedules and daily priorities.
• Ensure components are correctly labelled and tracked throughout production.
• Work closely with Spray Painters to ensure components are ready for finishing.
• Minimise waste through careful preparation and material handling.
• Report quality issues and manufacturing defects promptly.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Safely operate hand sanders, extraction systems and preparation equipment.
• Maintain tools and equipment in good working order.
• Report damaged or faulty equipment immediately.
• Keep preparation areas clean, organised and safe throughout the working day.

Quality Control

• Carry out visual inspections before components leave the preparation department.
• Maintain consistently high standards across all work.
• Take ownership of quality and ensure defects are identified before spray finishing.
• Help reduce defects and rework through effective preparation and continuous improvement.

Health & Safety

• Follow all Company Health & Safety procedures.
• Wear the required PPE at all times.
• Handle materials and equipment safely.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards.
• Support a safe working environment for all colleagues.

Teamwork

• Work collaboratively with Spray Painters, Production Managers and Workshop colleagues.
• Assist colleagues during busy production periods.
• Communicate effectively regarding job progress and quality concerns.
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude at all times.

Requirements / Skills:

• Previous experience preparing MDF, timber and veneered components for spray finishing.
• Excellent knowledge of sanding techniques and surface preparation.
• Experience using hand-held and powered sanding equipment.
• Good understanding of wood fillers and repair techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work to production deadlines without compromising standards.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Understanding of safe working practices within a manufacturing environment.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean, organised and safe working environment.

Personal Attributes

• Quality-focused.
• Highly organised.
• Reliable and dependable.
• Self-motivated.
• Positive and proactive.
• Takes pride in producing exceptional workmanship.
• Able to work effectively within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong team player with a positive attitude.

What’s on Offer:

• Opportunity to join an established and growing bespoke manufacturing business.
• Key role within a professional Spray Finishing operation.
• Opportunity to work on high-quality bespoke joinery and furniture projects.
• Varied and hands-on preparation work.
• Opportunity to develop your skills within a specialist manufacturing environment.
• Long-term career opportunity within a quality-focused business.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a brief covering note to wendie@simonacres.co.uk or contact Wendie Brown on 07917 102482.

Simon Acres Recruitment are acting as the employment agency for this position.