Quality/Defect Analyst

About Us

Founded in 1982, TEAM Group is a privately-owned Canadian company providing a wide range of manufacturing and production support services across North America. Specializing in industrial cleaning, facilities maintenance, trades, and shutdown services, we are recognized for our expertise in cleanroom-controlled environments. With a strong focus on quality, safety, and teamwork, we foster lasting relationships with both our employees and clients, ensuring efficient and reliable solutions tailored to meet diverse industry needs.

Our commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and employee development has recently earned TEAM Group recognition as a 2026 winner of Canada's Best Managed Companies!

Position Summary

The Paint Quality Defect Analyst serves as a key quality representative, taking ownership of paint finish quality by proactively identifying, analyzing, and reducing surface defects across all stages of the paint shop process. Using microscopic identification, data analysis, and systematic root-cause problem-solving, the Analyst works alongside client management, operations, and material suppliers to drive continuous process improvements, minimize rework, and maximize throughput.   

Key Responsibilities & Duties

1. Defect Identification & Microscopic Analysis

• Perform microscopic examination of paint defects across all layers (Substrate, E-Coat/ELPO, Wet/Dry Prime, Base Coat, Clear Coat).

• Execute precise paint cutting methods (Slice/Tipping, Horizontal Cut, and Diagonal Cut for scrap/fascia) to isolate defects, examine penetration depth, and pinpoint the exact stage of contamination.

• Capture high-resolution microscopic and full-location photos for defect documentation.

• Maintain and update the facility’s Paint Defect Reference Library and catalog physical samples on microscope slides.   

• Collect and evaluate potential fiber contaminants (gloves, wipers, robot covers) and test new production supplies for linting potential.

• Inspect spray equipment, such as bell cups under magnification, to eliminate spits and application flaws.

2. Process Auditing & Start-Up Verification

• Perform daily shift start-up walkthroughs to verify spray techniques, booth traffic, conveyor operation, colour-change routines, and equipment setup.

• Audit specified vehicle units across key Quality Gates (Body Shop load, E-Coat, Wet/Dry Prime, Top Coat booths, Finesse deck, and Spill-Out/repaint areas).   

• Monitor cleaning effectiveness and determine optimized cleaning schedules and frequencies for the paint facility.

• Report non-conformance constructively to plant supervision while adhering strictly to plant safety, dress code, and operational guidelines.

3. Data Tracking & Reporting

• Calculate and track Defects Per Unit (DPU), particle counts, and severity scores across quality gates:  

• Generate Daily Defect Reports detailing top DPU counts, surface locations, and turtle maps by vehicle model.

• Prepare and present weekly Pareto charts, monthly trend graphs (Spill-Out DPU, defects by color, paint booth, and layer), and defect board reviews using reporting tools (e.g., iPad reporting software).

4. Root Cause Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Lead structured 6-step problem-solving initiatives using quality tools (Pareto Analysis, PDCA, etc) to address top defects causing repaints or panel replacements.

• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary Paint Defect Committee.

• Recommend, test, and verify sustainable corrective action plans and special studies.

• Actively submit and work on continuous improvement projects.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 2+ years of experience in automotive or industrial paint shop operations, quality control, or process engineering.   

• Technical Skills:

  • In-depth understanding of multi-layer paint applications (E-Coat, Primer, Base Coat, Clear Coat).

  • Practical experience with micro-slicing tools (scalpel techniques) and optical/digital microscopic equipment.

  • Familiarity with defect root causes (e.g., craters, pops, fibers, spits, sealer marring, oven dirt).

• Quality Methods: Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies (PDCA, 5-Why, 4M, Pareto charts, Kaizen).   

• Soft Skills: Professional communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate constructively with supervisors, client management, and vendor teams.   

• Physical & Environmental Requirements: Ability to walk and audit production lines, work in paint booth environments, and handle micro-precision hand tools, wear the required PPE including full face respirator.  

Schedule:

Monday to Friday 6am to 2pm

once a month work adjusted schedule hours to take readings in system during night shift.

flexible to work on special projects from time to time for data gathering and root cause activities.

Pay Rate

• $70,000 -$80,000/year.

We Offer

• On-site parking;

• Competitive wages with opportunities for growth;

• Annual bonus incentive program;

• Comprehensive extended medical/dental benefits package;

• RRSP program eligibility after 1-year of continuous employment;

• Safety boot reimbursement program;

• Participation in company events and programs.

TEAM Group is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment where all employees feel valued and respected, and where every employee can realize their potential.

TEAM Group is an equal opportunity employer; as such, accommodation is available to applicants that may require it. Applicants requiring accommodation are encouraged to contact Human Resources at hr@team-group.com to discuss requirements.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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