ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Coating Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Experience operating blasting and spray painting equipment. * Knowledge of surface preparation and coating application techniques. * Ability to work in physically demanding shipyard environments.

Delta Star, Inc.

Painter I (Night)

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$23.76/hr

... coatings, operating painting equipment, and assisting higher-level painters with production ... Dip articles in coating solutions according to established procedures. * Assist with operation of ...

Axalta Coating Systems Ltd

General Operator

Dublin, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process documentation * Adjust in-process material per lab instructions * Filter product, including loading/changing FSI filters and traps

MILLS MARINE & SHIP REPAIR LLC

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

PUMP OPERATOR: • Inspect and set up pumps, hoses, fittings, filters, tips, guards, suction equipment, and material stations. • Verify product information and follow coating mixing, induction-time ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsCoating Operator JobsCoating Operator Jobs in Virginia

Coating Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for coating operator in Virginia is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.33 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 Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Coating Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Coating Operator jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

Coating Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Coating Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Contract, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,759 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Shipyard Painter / Sprayer / Blaster

Tidewater Staffing

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 13 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Tidewater Staffing is currently seeking experienced Shipyard Painters, Sprayers and Blasters for work in Hampton Roads shipyards.

We are seeking candidates highly experienced in surface preparation, abrasive blasting, industrial painting, and marine coating applications. Local and traveling candidates are encouraged to apply. Per diem may be available for qualified non-local candidates.

Job Duties

• Perform abrasive blasting to remove rust, scale, paint, and surface contaminants.
• Prepare shipboard and industrial surfaces for coating applications.
• Apply marine and industrial coatings using conventional and airless spray equipment.
• Mix paints, coatings, and related materials according to specifications.
• Mask, tape, and protect surrounding areas before blasting and painting operations.
• Perform touch-up work and coating repairs as needed.
• Inspect completed work for proper coverage and quality standards.
• Maintain blasting and painting equipment.
• Follow all shipyard safety requirements and PPE standards.
• Work aboard vessels, in dry docks, industrial facilities, confined spaces, and elevated work areas as required.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Shipyard Painter, Sprayer, Blaster, Marine Painter, or Industrial Painter.
• Experience operating blasting and spray painting equipment.
• Knowledge of surface preparation and coating application techniques.
• Ability to work in physically demanding shipyard environments.
• Ability to climb, lift, bend, stoop, and work in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
• Shipyard certifications are a plus but not required.

Why Work With Tidewater Staffing?

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
• Potential per diem opportunities for qualified non-local candidates.
• Opportunities available throughout Hampton Roads shipyards.
• Long-term and project-based assignments available.
• Work with a staffing company that understands the shipyard industry and skilled trades workforce.

Apply today to learn more about current opportunities.

Company Description

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.”

Tidewater Staffing logo

About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992

View All Tidewater Staffing Jobs