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Metal Prep Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Addictive Desert Designs

Metal Finisher

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

All tools and equipment provided The Role The Metal Finisher owns the full metal prep process before final coating - surface grinding, DA finishing, weld berry removal, dimple die forming, minor weld ...

Addictive Desert Designs

Metal Finishing

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$18/hr

All tools and equipment provided The Role The Metal Finisher owns the full metal prep process before final coating - surface grinding, DA finishing, weld berry removal, dimple die forming, minor weld ...

Monarch Metal Manufacturing

Powder Coater

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Helps with inspections for quality * will help and support with using a pressure washer to rinse materials for metal prep * Is willing to be taught or has experience in Powder Coating. * Must be ...

Addictive Desert Designs

Metal Finishing

Chandler, AZ

$18/hr

All tools and equipment provided The Role The Metal Finisher owns the full metal prep process before final coating -- surface grinding, DA finishing, weld berry removal, dimple die forming, minor ...

New

Monarch Metal Manufacturing

Powder Coater

Denver, CO · On-site

Helps with inspections for quality * will help and support with using a pressure washer to rinse materials for metal prep * Is willing to be taught or has experience in Powder Coating. * Must be ...

Parker

3rd Shift, Metal Prep Operator

Bowling Green, KY

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Position Summary The incumbent is accountable for start-up, operation, and shutdown of spray lines and metal prep equipment in a safe and efficient manner. Additionally, the incumbent will need to ...

Parker

3rd Shift Metal Prep Operator

Cambridge Springs, PA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Position Summary The Metal Preparation Operator operates all metal-processing production equipment, performs minor maintenance tasks on the equipment, and maintains waste-disposal systems.

Hutchinson

MI Metal Prep Operator I

Ithaca, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

* Follow all safety procedures, including the wearing of all required personal protective equipment. * Read and follow work instructions and procedures for the job. * Verify proper components are at ...

Hutchinson

MI Metal Prep Operator I

Ithaca, MI

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

* Follow all safety procedures, including the wearing of all required personal protective equipment. * Read and follow work instructions and procedures for the job. * Verify proper components are at ...

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All JobsMetal Prep Jobs

Metal Prep information

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$8

$14

$18

How much do metal prep jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal prep in the United States is $14.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the metal preparation industry, highly experienced professionals such as senior metallurgists or specialized inspectors can earn close to or above $400,000 annually, especially with advanced certifications and leadership roles. These positions often require extensive expertise, years of experience, and sometimes management responsibilities within manufacturing or industrial settings.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs in specialized fields such as high-level consulting, executive management, or certain freelance roles like software development or financial trading can pay $2,000 or more per day. These positions often require advanced skills, significant experience, or certifications, and may involve high-pressure environments or project-based work.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A metal prep worker typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High-paying jobs in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree, but most skilled trades or technical roles, including metal prep, usually pay less unless combined with extensive experience or supervisory responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced in a Metal Prep role, and how can new hires overcome them?

A common challenge in a Metal Prep role is maintaining precision and consistency while handling repetitive tasks such as cleaning, grinding, or sanding metal surfaces for fabrication or finishing. New hires may also need to quickly learn to identify different metal types and understand the correct preparation techniques for each. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to pay close attention to safety protocols, seek guidance from experienced team members, and take time to develop strong attention to detail. Continuous training and hands-on experience will help you improve efficiency and accuracy in this role.

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

To thrive as a Metal Prep, you need a solid understanding of metalworking processes, basic math skills, and experience with hand and power tools, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as grinders, sandblasters, and measuring devices, as well as knowledge of safety protocols, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team are standout soft skills. These skills ensure the proper preparation of metal surfaces, contribute to high-quality finished products, and maintain a safe and productive work environment.

What is a Metal Prep?

A Metal Prep, or Metal Preparation Worker, is responsible for preparing metal surfaces before they are painted, coated, or assembled. This job typically involves cleaning, sanding, grinding, or blasting metal parts to remove rust, scale, oil, or other contaminants. The process ensures that the metal surface adheres properly to paint or coatings and meets quality standards. Metal Prep workers may use hand tools, power tools, or specialized equipment and must follow safety guidelines to prevent injuries.

What is the difference between Metal Prep vs Metal Fabricator?

AspectMetal PrepMetal Fabricator
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly OSHA 10/30OSHA safety training, possibly OSHA 10/30
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, manufacturing plants, construction sitesIndustrial, manufacturing shops, construction sites
Job ResponsibilitiesSurface preparation, cleaning, grinding, and applying coatingsCutting, welding, assembling metal parts into structures

Metal Prep and Metal Fabricator roles often share similar safety certifications and work environments. However, Metal Prep focuses on surface preparation and finishing, while Metal Fabricators are involved in cutting, welding, and assembling metal components. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and construction industries, but they differ in daily tasks and skill sets.

Why were 92,000 jobs lost?

The loss of 92,000 jobs can be attributed to economic downturns, industry declines, or automation reducing demand for manual labor roles like metal prep. These factors often lead to layoffs in manufacturing and related sectors, impacting employment numbers.
What cities are hiring for Metal Prep jobs? Cities with the most Metal Prep job openings:
What job categories do people searching Metal Prep jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metal Prep jobs are:
Metal Prep jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metal Prep job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,765 per year, or $14.3 per hour.
Metal Prep Technician I- 1st shift

Metal Prep Technician I- 1st shift

Superior Tire & Rubber Corp.

Warren, PA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate blasting equipment with precision and efficiency to process metal parts.

  • Load, unload, and transport part trees and racks to support production processes.

  • Review daily schedules and complete tracking forms to ensure accurate counts of parts.

Job description

Description
As a Metal Prep Technician I at Superior Tire & Rubber Corp., your responsibilities will include operating blasting equipment with precision and efficiency, as well as loading, unloading, and transporting part trees and racks to support production processes.
Essential Job Functions:
Planning/Coordinating Product
  • Review daily schedule with Team Leader or Specialist at start of each shift to establish correct parts and order to run.
  • Required to complete Blaster Capacity Tracking sheet and Parts Tree Tracker form to ensure accurate count of parts.
  • Coordinate with Supervisor or Team Leader and Material Handler for correct timing on staging of parts.

Safety and Compliance:
  • Follow all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Comply with company policies, procedures, and standards.
  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), as required.
  • Attend daily safety meetings
  • Perform daily Pangborn Blaster inspections using check list, filling out accurately and completely.
  • Complete maintenance work orders and inform Team Leader with any issues that arise on the Pangborn Blaster, trees, sticks, or carts.

Team Collaboration
  • Work closely with team members, supervision, and other cross-functional teams to achieve production goals.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding job status and any issues.

5S Responsibilities:
  • Follow the 5S principles: Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain
  • Look for ways to improve production efficiency using 5S Practices
  • Keep your work area organized and ready for daily 5S inspections

Working Responsibilities:
  • Ensure all trees and racks are loaded with correct number of parts and ensure blasting equipment continuously runs throughout shift.
  • Set up the blaster with correct cycle time standards
  • Interpret blueprints to select proper protective devices to prevent damage to critical dimensions.
  • Monitor grit volume, adding or removing as needed.
  • Move racks and trees between stations to maintain a continuous flow.
  • Have a basic understanding of how blaster functions.
  • Keep accurate count of parts moved through blaster and report to Team Lead or Supervisor.

Other Duties:
  • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
  • Full Time Non-Exempt
  • Monday through Friday
  • Weekends as needed.
  • Required to work onsite 100% of the time.

Travel:
  • On-site Only

Work Environment:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in an industrial manufacturing environment.
    • Percentage of Manufacturing and Distribution - 100%

Physical Demands:
  • The physical demands for this role are representative of those required to successfully perform its essential functions. As a Metal Prep Technician, you will need to stand for extended periods, frequently lift weights ranging from 50 to 100 pounds, and work in hot temperature environments. Additionally, strong vision and hearing capabilities are essential for effectively carrying out your responsibilities.

Required and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Shop, manufacturing experience, preferred
  • No prior experience necessary

Competencies/Skill:
  • Able to read/write and do basic math.
  • Good problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Basic math skills and ability to use measuring tools.
  • Physical ability to lift and move materials as needed.

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