Lacquer

Term from Painting industry explained for recruiters

Lacquer is a special type of finish that painters and finishers use to create a hard, durable, and glossy coating on surfaces. It dries faster than many other finishes and is popular in both furniture making and automotive painting. When someone mentions lacquer work on their resume, they're typically referring to applying these finishes using spray equipment or other application methods. This finish is different from regular paint or varnish because it creates a particularly smooth and professional-looking surface that's resistant to damage.

Examples in Resumes

Applied Lacquer finish to high-end furniture pieces

Specialized in automotive Lacquer application techniques

Developed custom Lacquer mixing procedures for unique color matching

Typical job title: "Lacquer Finishers"

Also try searching for:

Finish Technician Furniture Finisher Automotive Painter Wood Finisher Cabinet Finisher Spray Technician Coating Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex color matching with lacquer finishes?

Expected Answer: A senior finisher should explain their process for analyzing original colors, mixing custom lacquer formulas, and testing techniques to achieve exact matches. They should mention experience with color matching tools and documentation of successful formulas.

Q: What safety protocols do you implement when managing a finishing department?

Expected Answer: Should discuss ventilation systems, personal protective equipment requirements, proper storage of materials, emergency procedures, and training programs for staff safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the different types of lacquer and when do you use each?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the differences between nitrocellulose, acrylic, and catalyzed lacquers, and describe appropriate applications for each type based on the project requirements.

Q: How do you troubleshoot common lacquer application problems?

Expected Answer: Should describe solutions for issues like orange peel texture, bubbling, or uneven coating, demonstrating knowledge of causes and remedies for each problem.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic steps do you take to prepare a surface for lacquer application?

Expected Answer: Should explain cleaning procedures, sanding methods, and the importance of dust-free environments before application.

Q: What safety equipment do you use when applying lacquer?

Expected Answer: Should list basic safety gear including respirator, protective clothing, eye protection, and describe proper ventilation needs.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic surface preparation
  • Simple lacquer application techniques
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Basic equipment maintenance

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multiple application methods
  • Color matching ability
  • Problem diagnosis and solving
  • Equipment troubleshooting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex finishing techniques
  • Team supervision
  • Quality control management
  • Custom finish development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of safety procedures
  • Lack of experience with different application methods
  • Unable to explain basic surface preparation
  • No understanding of drying times and conditions