Buster Symes

Motivated and adaptable professional with a proven ability to learn quickly, work collaboratively, and deliver high-quality results. Skilled in problem-solving, time management, and clear communication, with a strong commitment to achieving both individual and team objectives. Known for reliability, attention to detail, and a positive attitude, I bring enthusiasm and dedication to every task. Seeking an opportunity to contribute my skills and grow within a forward-thinking organisation.

Travelling/backpacking/freelance tattooist (2023-08 – 2026-08)

Machine Operative at PlusImage Ltd (2021-10 – 2023-08)

• Operating heavy machinery that manufacture plastic components for commercial products.
• Adjusting and setting machinery to customer specifications.
• Ensuring quality control and inspecting products that are ready to be delivered.

Paint Sprayer at South West Metal Finishing Company (2019-02 – 2021-10)

• Precision painting of Military of Defence equipment, aerospace equipment and for other high technology sectors.
• Masking and preparation of parts to customer specification and requirements.
• Managing small teams; delegating and planning daily tasks of team members and ensuring efficiency of the team.
• Reading technical drawings.
• Working to tight deadlines in a high pressure environment.
• Painting parts for large contractors such as Rolls Royce.
• Filling out paperwork for customer specifications.

Production Operative at Polestar (2015-08 – 2017-01)

• Operating complex and heavy machinery that manufacture books and manuals.
• Loading and unloading items from machinery, moving and labelling stock around the warehouse and packaging items.
• Working in a team to ensure all tasks are completed to specific deadlines.
• Working in quality control and inspecting products that are ready to be delivered.

Bodywork and Painter at Southwest Splits (2013-06 – 2015-07)

• Full restoration of exteriors and interiors of classic vehicles.
• Sanding, panel beating, welding, and filling panels for vehicles in preparation for paintwork.
• Masking, colour coding and paint mixing.
• Cutting, polishing and detailing vehicles after paint, ready for customers to collect.
• Greetings customers and taking them through the steps their vehicle has undergone to get to the finished product.

Bodywork and Painter at Cofton Motors (2015-08 – 2016-01)

• Smart and small bodywork repairs.
• Masking and painting new cars.

Production Operative at Smartworld (2013-01 – 2013-05)

• Wheel refurbishment and painting.
• Daily admin tasks and invoices.

Chef at The Silly Goose Company (2017-02 – 2019-02)

• Preparing and making food in a busy pub in a small team.
• Working in a high pressure environment.
• Creating and designing new dishes for the menu.
• Abiding by health and safety standards.

Personal vehicle restorations (2018-03 – 2018-11)

• Personal projects and commissions from local clients.
• Full restoration of vehicles, including electronics, paintwork, interiors, and chassis.

GCSE – Teignmouth Community School (2003 – 2008)

Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance – Exeter College (2009 – 2014)

Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Bodywork and Painting – Exeter College (2009 – 2014)