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Paint Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer I - Paint - M&P

Boulder, CO · On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

Join a team that develops, implements and commissions materials and process (M&P) plans for tactical hardware, including assisting with efforts to qualify new materials and processes in paint lab ...

Engineer I - Paint - M&P

Boulder, CO · On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

Join a team that develops, implements and commissions materials and process (M&P) plans for tactical hardware, including assisting with efforts to qualify new materials and processes in paint lab ...

Engineer I - Paint - M&P

Boulder, CO · On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

Join a team that develops, implements and commissions materials and process (M&P) plans for tactical hardware, including assisting with efforts to qualify new materials and processes in paint lab ...

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Paint Lab information

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$12

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$34

How much do paint lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint lab in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paint lab technician?

A Paint Lab technician is a professional who works in a laboratory setting to develop, test, and analyze paints, coatings, and related materials. Their responsibilities typically include mixing formulas, conducting quality control tests, evaluating color accuracy, and ensuring products meet industry standards. They often collaborate with chemists, production teams, and quality assurance specialists to improve paint performance and resolve technical issues. Paint Lab technicians are essential in industries such as automotive, manufacturing, and construction, where high-quality coatings are critical.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in a paint lab, and how can they be managed?

Working in a Paint Lab often involves managing multiple projects with tight deadlines, precise color matching, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Technicians must frequently troubleshoot formulation inconsistencies and ensure quality control under varying environmental conditions. Effective time management, attention to detail, and strong communication with production, R&D, and quality assurance teams are essential for overcoming these challenges. Regular training and collaboration with colleagues also help in staying updated on best practices and new technologies.

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

To thrive as a Paint Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of chemistry, color theory, and quality control, often supported by a degree or certificate in chemistry, materials science, or a related field. Familiarity with spectrophotometers, color matching software, and laboratory safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate formulation, consistent product quality, and safe lab operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Paint Lab vs Paint Technician?

AspectPaint LabPaint Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in paint mixing or safety are commonRequires similar certifications; often needs experience with paint application and safety standards
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting focused on paint formulation, testing, and quality controlOn-site application, preparing surfaces, and painting in various settings such as automotive, industrial, or residential
Industry UsageUsed mainly in R&D, quality assurance, and product development within paint manufacturingPrimarily in construction, automotive, or industrial sectors for applying paint

The main difference between a Paint Lab and a Paint Technician lies in their roles: Paint Labs focus on developing and testing paint products in a laboratory environment, while Paint Technicians apply paint in real-world settings. Both roles require similar certifications but serve different stages of the paint lifecycle.

What cities are hiring for Paint Lab jobs?

Cities with the most Paint Lab job openings:

What states have the most Paint Lab jobs?

States with the most job openings for Paint Lab jobs include:

Infographic showing various Paint Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Paint Lab Tech Lead

Indianapolis, IN

Superior Metal Technologies
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

Superior Metal Technologies is a full-service aluminum metal finishing company, specializing in high-performance architectural coatings, including polyvinylidene fluoride PVDF (Kynar 500), eco-friendly acid etch anodize and caustic etch anodize . We've been an aluminum metal finishing leader since 1936. Our years of customer commitment and dedication coupled with industry knowledge have allowed us to become the finisher of choice for a wide range of industries across the country.

We are seeking a dedicated and self-motivated Paint Lab Tec Lead with a strong focus on inventory control to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the flow of materials within our facility, ensuring accuracy in inventory levels, and maintaining a high standard of safety and organization. This role is critical in supporting our production operations and will require a proactive approach to problem-solving and effective communication skills.

Requirements

While all these job requirements are not necessary, it will be helpful to have some as we will train. 

This position is available on 1st shift. 


  Specifics

Thinning down paints

Hazardous waste collection and labeling

Making touch-up paints

Organization and change-out of barrels for new and old solvent

Disposal of used barrels and containers

Cleaning out containers to be re-used 

Help stocking and putting up new and used paints

Daily clean-up of spent solvent areas

Fully understanding how to operate the paint auto dispensing system

Organization and creation of master samples

Spraying batch samples after paint is made

Spray batch samples of all paints on schedule and be taken to the office for filing 

Mix paints to meet the daily requirements set-forth daily by the group leader

Making customer samples

Re-use of left-over paint (rework) to create new colors

Controlling master samples on production board for daily production prior to production starting

Stocking and putting up new and used paints

Putting stock of paints up, new and used

Detail training when required

Proper reduction of all paint

Proper labeling of ALL samples (batch spray, master and customer samples)

Daily, weekly, monthly and yearly auto dispensing machine maintenance

Full understanding of how to operate the spectrophotometer

Proficient in using office software (E-mail, spreadsheets, databases)

Daily communication with manufacturing departments

Management of all team members in the paint lab

Paint inventory stored and labeled properly

Paint inventoried accurate and logged properly

Keep paint inventory minimized to optimize on-time shipments to customers

Paint inventory reports 

Ordering purchased paints, solvents and other

Ordering paint line supplies

Ordering samples from vendors

Scheduling production as needed

External vendor visits/training

Cost saving opportunities and manage/reduce cost

Continuing education

Identification and understanding of paint defects.

Please note that the responsibilities outlined above are not exhaustive. 

As a member of our team, you may be required to perform other duties as necessary and assigned by the management team in accordance with the business needs of the senior living community.


Physical demands and abilities

 Regularly required to use hands and fingers to operate and inspect machinery and metal pieces

 Regularly lift and/or move objects 10-50lbs. Occasionally lift and/or move objects that weigh more than 100 lbs. to position metal objects to begin and finish treatment processes and/or prepare for shipping 

 Frequently required to stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl to position self to move metal objects for treatment or packing. 

 Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust and focus. Must be able to detect slight differences in various finishes.

Communicate verbally with coworkers about safety, discrepancy, or variety of other work issues

Tolerate working in an environment that may be hot or cold depending on the season and will expose you to loud sounds, dust, fumes and solvents.


Why Join Us? 

At Superior Metal Technologies, we value our team members and offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. If you are passionate about material handling and inventory control and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter detailing their relevant experience and motivation for joining Superior Metal Technologies. We look forward to hearing from you!

We offer a competitive wages and benefit package, professional grow and an excellent work environment.