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Coating Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Faribault, MN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Position Summary The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development ...

Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Faribault, MN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Position Summary The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development ...

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Coating information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$25

$34

How much do coating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for coating in Minnesota is $25.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coating job?

Coating jobs involve applying protective or decorative layers to surfaces, typically in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and construction. Workers in these roles use various techniques—like spraying, dipping, or brushing—to cover materials with substances such as paint, varnish, enamel, or metal coatings. The purpose is to enhance durability, prevent corrosion, improve appearance, or meet industry-specific standards. Coating technicians must follow safety protocols, operate specialized equipment, and ensure quality control throughout the process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coating technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coating Technician, you need a strong understanding of surface preparation, coating application techniques, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant vocational training or certifications. Familiarity with spray guns, powder coating equipment, and quality control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential soft skills that enhance performance in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality finishes, adherence to safety standards, and effective collaboration in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in coating roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in coating roles often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality, managing production deadlines, and ensuring safety, especially when working with hazardous materials or complex equipment. Addressing these challenges typically involves thorough training on equipment operation, adherence to safety protocols, and regular quality checks throughout the coating process. Collaboration with quality control teams and production managers is also essential to quickly identify and resolve issues, ensuring both efficiency and product excellence.

What is the difference between Coating vs Painter?

AspectCoatingPainter
CertificationsOften requires certifications in coating application and safetyTypically requires painting licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, commercial, or specialized coating settingsResidential, commercial, or industrial painting projects
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, construction, and maintenance for protective layersUsed in decorating, finishing, and surface preparation

Coating professionals focus on applying protective or functional layers to surfaces, often requiring specialized certifications and working in industrial environments. Painters primarily handle aesthetic surface finishes in residential or commercial settings. While both roles involve surface application, coatings emphasize durability and protection, whereas painters focus on appearance and decoration.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Coating jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Coating job openings:

Infographic showing various Coating job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,445 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Faribault, MN • On-site

Apogee Enterprises, Inc.
Ceramic, Glass, Cement Product Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Apogee Enterprises rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Tru Vue Inc.
Work Hours: 1st Shift Monday-Friday 6:00am-2:30pm
Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG), was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Apogee is a growing, profitable company with annual revenues approaching $1.5 billion. We provide distinctive metal and glass solutions for enclosing commercial buildings, and glass and acrylic solutions for picture framing and display applications. To learn more visit: www.apog.com.
The Apogee Performance Surfaces generates $200M in revenue and EBITDA margins of 20-25%. Our brands in the Performance Surfaces portfolio develop and manufacture high-performance coated materials for a variety of applications, including wall décor, museums, graphic design, architectural interiors, digital display, and industrial flooring markets. We are the global leader in anti-reflective, conservation grade electrostatic dissipative, high-definition, and abrasion resistance coatings, that provide protection, innovative designs, and exceptional durability.
Position Summary
The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development of new products and implementation of coating process improvements.
Responsibilities
  • Provide direct technical support and guidance to the Process Technicians, including but not limited to:
    • Plan and execute technical training programs and on-the-job support for Process Technicians to enhance technical skills, promote efficiencies, and positively impact overall production/yields.
    • Audit Process Technicians on standard operating procedures that relate to the coating process.
    • Provide meaningful and constructive performance feedback that positively influences Process Technician behavior.
    • Provide regular technical feedback to the Coating Process Manager on Process Technicians' technical skill deficiencies, development opportunities, and work performance, including escalating technical performance issues, as necessary.
    • Assist Coating Process Manager with coordinating Process Technician scheduling and coater coverage plans.
    • Provide direct support and coverage of coater operations as needed
  • Contribute to the development of new products and implementation of coating process improvements.
    • Generate samples and conduct trials on the development coater for efforts related to the development of new coating and improvements to existing coatings and processes.
    • Lead/participate in development efforts on the production coaters.
    • Perform required product testing: optical, mechanical, environmental, etc. participate in the development of new standards.
    • Monitor the status of the production coaters and lead/participate in trouble-shooting efforts when needed.
    • Work directly and effectively with customers and vendors in support of new products or technology.
    • Support the patent process, as requested.
  • Use data to manage risks effectively and be aware of impact of decisions on other departments.
  • Stay current on developing markets and technological trends through external information sources.
  • Provide support through effective and efficient literature searching.
  • Interact with Maintenance and Support groups to ensure appropriate preventative maintenance items are completed and potential issues are resolved.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Personal Attributes and Experience
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience or equivalent combination of education and experience in technology, equipment, or product development, with a substantial portion in vacuum or thin film coating. 5 years of experience is preferred.
  • PC Skills and proficiency required: Microsoft Office, Internet, E-mail, Spreadsheets, and department specific software (specific software may be learned on the job.).
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Proficient in training others.
  • Knowledge of vacuum theory, systems, and hardware; demonstrated application and hands-on ability.
  • Familiarity with and previous use of Six Sigma tools. Prior Six Sigma formal training preferred.
  • Optical modeling and coating design experience preferred.
  • Ability and willingness to lead and motivate others in a positive manner, including coaching others to follow work instructions, achieve standards, reach team goals, and resolve conflicts.
  • Ability to operate both development and production coaters, with a desire to learn the intricacies of operating Tru Vue's coating equipment. Able to adapt to new technology and techniques.
  • Demonstrated understanding of the relationship between product features and manufacturing parameters, and quality measurements.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to discuss, develop, and implement plans. Demonstrated ability to work and lead in a cross-functional team environment and interact effectively with others at various levels of the organization.
  • Proficiently use department-specific software, equipment, and instrumentation.
  • Proven excellent problem solving and root cause identification and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to manage time, workload, and projects efficiently; ability to prioritize, modify, prioritize, and organize efficiently. Produces projects on time and on budget.
  • Ability to work independently and move projects forward without close supervision.
  • Sensitive to other cultures and backgrounds, able to work effectively in a diverse workplace.
  • Ability to work outside scheduled hours in a 24/5 operation, based on the needs for technical support on the production coaters.

Work Environment
This job is primarily performed in an office environment. The noise level in the office is generally moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently interacts with individuals on the plant floor, near moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the production environment is usually loud.
While performing the functions of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
#LI-TV1
Pay Range:
  • $26.00-30.00/hour

Our Benefits
We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team.
  • Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)
  • Incentive Plans
  • 401(k) with employer contribution and match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Training and Career Progression

Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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