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Coating Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

$130K - $190K/yr

ABOUT AMERICAN OPERATOR American Operator exists to keep the American Dream alive through small ... We are looking for experienced operators who have led a powder coating operation. This is an ...

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Floor Coating Installer

Newtown, PA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have experience in operating general construction equipment (Shop Vac, Generator, Handheld Angle Grinder, Large Floor Grinder, Painting Tools) The position of Garage Coating ...

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Floor Coating Installer

Newtown, PA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have experience in operating general construction equipment (Shop Vac, Generator, Handheld Angle Grinder, Large Floor Grinder, Painting Tools) The position of Garage Coating ...

Experience operating paint and powder coating equipment. * Knowledge of surface preparation techniques and coating adhesion requirements. * Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and hazardous material handling ...

Metal Finisher (Paint/Powder Coating)

Erie, PA · On-site

$18/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating paint and powder coating equipment. * Knowledge of surface preparation techniques and coating adhesion requirements. * Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and hazardous material handling ...

Performing the job duties of a Coating Assistant or Operator, as necessary and if assigned, dependent upon production rates, staffing and necessity of line repairs. * Ensuring that the coater is ...

Showing results 21-40

Coating Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for coating operator in Pennsylvania is $18.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coating operator?

Coating operators are skilled workers responsible for applying coatings—such as paint, varnish, or other finishes—to products or materials using specialized machinery or manual techniques. They monitor the coating process to ensure even application, thickness, and quality standards are met. This role often involves preparing surfaces, mixing coating solutions, setting up equipment, and conducting routine maintenance. Coating operators work in industries like manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and construction, where protective or decorative coatings are required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coating operator?

To thrive as a Coating Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with coating machinery, quality control tools, and safety protocols is typically required, and certifications in machine operation or industrial safety are advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow precise instructions help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation and high-quality product output in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by coating operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Coating Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adhering to safety protocols in a fast-paced environment. Addressing these challenges involves thorough training on machinery, staying attentive to process controls, and collaborating closely with quality assurance and maintenance teams. Proactive communication and a strong understanding of standard operating procedures help ensure smooth operations and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Coating Operator vs Paint Technician?

AspectCoating OperatorPaint Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; may have certifications in painting or coatings
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsWorkshops, industrial facilities, sometimes outdoors
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing sectors for applying protective or decorative coatingsPrimarily in automotive, aerospace, or industrial painting applications

While both roles involve applying coatings, a Coating Operator typically handles the operation of coating machinery in industrial settings, focusing on production efficiency. A Paint Technician often performs detailed painting tasks, including surface preparation and finishing, with more emphasis on craftsmanship. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Coating Operator jobs in PA?

For Coating Operator jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Coating Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,177 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Coating Technician - MIDNIGHT SHIFT-Saxonburg,Pennsylvania

Coherent

Saxonburg, PA • On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Operation of thin film coating and test equipment including:
  • Retrieving proper designs according to set schedule and programs into coating system operations controller

  • Operate coating equipment according to set parameter and establishing procedures

  • Determine evaporation layer end points to high level of accuracy

  • By observation and deduction, extract the maximum amount of data from each coating run and document accordingly

  • Monitor two high volume coating chambers at one time, while supporting peers in their operations

  • Communicate daily activities during quality meetings

  • Operate characterization/test equipment and interpret results

  • Maintain schedule demands and requirements

Coating Chamber Setup
  • Evaluate design requirements and prepare evaporation materials accordingly

  • Evaluate evaporation components to assure proper operation requirements

  • Change out all worn/dirty components and replace with cleaned or new ones

  • Observe and extract the maximum amount of data from each calibration/production run. Evaluate data from calibration/production runs

  • Use calibration equipment to assure proper setup and quality control

  • Double check design and run requirements before loading run

  • Document log information required for design operations

  • Accept responsibility for the quality of the thin film coating process and equipment assigned

Related Job Tasks
  • Supporting cleaning area in loading of optical components

  • Prepare evaporation material according to procedure

  • Maintain inventory controls

  • Perform minor maintenance with minimal support

  • Take traces between coating runs to verify performance

  • Learn nonstandard system operations at a basic level

  • Audit personal and peer procedures for process consistency

  • Support senior operators in the training of new employees

  • Provide engineering support with timely, accurate information

  • Attend and participate in daily quality meetings

Education & Experience
  • High school graduate or equivalent

  • Manufacturing experience preferred

Skills
  • Able to work in a demanding, fast-paced production environment

  • Able to multi-task and prioritize

  • Forward thinker

  • Strong attention to detail and quality

  • Team-oriented; works well with others in the group

  • Excellent interpersonal skills

  • Good communication, both verbal and nonverbal

  • Must be able to effectively listen and assimilate, present organized trains of thought, assure a timely information exchange with others as required

Working Conditions
  • Must be able to work with acids, radioactive materials and other toxic chemicals

  • Make-up and perfumes discouraged while working in clean room to prevent contamination

Physical Requirements
  • Long periods of standing and/or walking (3-4 hours at a time) 

  • Must be able to wear a full-face respirator. Must be clean shaven 

  • Must be able to lift, push, pull up to 50 lbs.

  • Bending and stooping required

  • May need to utilize step stool or elevated working platform to adjust within coating chamber and to disassemble/reassemble

Safety Requirements
  • All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

  • This position is subject to a pre-employment physical evaluation associated with wearing a respirator.   

  • This position must under-go annual physical evaluations associated with respirator use.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
#INDAbout Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.