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Powder Coating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SixAxis LLC

Powder Coat Tech- Night Shift

Andrews, SC · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Continuous mental and visual attention in making set ups and operating powder coating booth requiring constant alertness and activity. Ability to interpret job related instructions. Must have ability ...

Snelling Staffing Services

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Powder Painter

Evans, GA · On-site

$20/hr

... powder coating per manufacturer requirements • Clean paint guns and the booth to prevent ... Although headquartered in South Carolina, our Mobile office is a locally owned and operated, award ...

American Operator

$130K - $190K/yr

ABOUT AMERICAN OPERATOR American Operator exists to keep the American Dream alive through small ... ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for an experienced operator to lead a powder coating shop as CEO in ...

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Powder Coating Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do powder coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for powder coating operator in the United States is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for powder coating?

The demand for powder coating operators is generally steady, as industries such as automotive, furniture, and appliances increasingly use powder coating for its durability and environmental benefits. The growth of manufacturing and maintenance sectors supports ongoing job opportunities for skilled operators with knowledge of spray equipment and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Powder Coating Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Powder Coating Operator, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation, coating application techniques, and safety protocols, often acquired through vocational training or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with powder coating equipment, curing ovens, spray guns, and quality inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow precise instructions are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure consistent, high-quality finishes, workplace safety, and efficient production output.

How much does powder coating get paid?

Powder coating operators typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $45,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with experience in spray guns and curing ovens may earn higher wages, especially in industrial settings with overtime opportunities.

What are Powder Coating Operators?

Powder Coating Operators are skilled workers responsible for applying powder-based paint or coatings to various metal or plastic surfaces using specialized spray equipment. They prepare surfaces, set up and operate the coating machinery, monitor the curing process, and inspect finished products for quality. This role often requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment. Powder Coating Operators typically work in manufacturing, automotive, or industrial settings where durable and even coatings are required to protect and finish products.

What is the difference between Powder Coating Operator vs Spray Painter?

AspectPowder Coating OperatorSpray Painter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, certification in powder coating processesHigh school diploma, painting certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilities, controlled spray boothsAuto body shops, industrial facilities, painting booths
Industry UsageAutomotive, appliances, metal furniture manufacturingAutomotive, construction, artistic painting
Job FocusApplying powder coatings using specialized equipmentApplying liquid paint via spray guns

The main difference is that Powder Coating Operators specialize in applying dry powder coatings using specialized equipment, often in industrial settings, while Spray Painters focus on applying liquid paint, typically in auto body or artistic contexts. Both roles require safety training and certifications but differ in materials and application methods.

Can you make good money with powder coating?

Powder coating operators can earn a competitive wage, especially with experience and certifications. Salaries typically range from entry-level pay to higher wages for skilled workers, and opportunities for overtime can increase earnings. The job often requires attention to detail and knowledge of coating equipment, which can impact earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by Powder Coating Operators and how can they be addressed?

Powder Coating Operators often encounter challenges such as achieving consistent coating thickness, preventing contamination, and managing complex part geometries. These issues can be addressed by carefully preparing surfaces, regularly maintaining equipment, and closely monitoring environmental conditions like humidity and temperature. Additionally, collaborating with quality control teams and adhering to safety protocols ensures a high-quality finish and minimizes rework. Continuous training and open communication with supervisors help operators stay current with best practices and troubleshoot problems efficiently.

How hard is it to get into powder coating?

Getting into a powder coating operator role typically requires basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with spray equipment. Many positions offer on-the-job training, and some employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification in safety and equipment operation can improve job prospects but is not always mandatory.
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Powder Coating Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powder Coating Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,715 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Production Painter/Powder Coat Technician

Production Painter/Powder Coat Technician

The Kirlin Company

Detroit, MI • On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1895, Kirlin Lighting is the longest-operating independent lighting fixture manufacturer in the United States. We are looking to add an experienced Production Painter/Powder Coat Technician to our staff, working out of our headquarters in Detroit, MI.
Job Summary:
The Production Painter/Powder Coat Technician is responsible for operating Kirlin’s wet paint and powder coating line; preparing, coating, and curing aluminum and steel parts with paint or powder coatings; following written or verbal instructions as well as exercising judgment and experience to produce the highest quality finished goods in the lighting industry.
Duties:
  • Paint or powder coat parts in conformance with expectations, meeting daily production assignments.
  • Prepare surfaces for coating, including cleaning, masking and inspection as required.
  • Operate and maintain paint and powder coating equipment, spray guns, booths, conveyors, and curing ovens, following company safety and maintenance standards.
  • Understand and exceed company quality objectives.
  • Perform quality checks and maintain process logs for chemical concentration, coating thickness, cure verification, adhesion, and coverage/appearance.
  • Perform scheduled preventative maintenance on paint, powder coating, and pretreatment equipment (examples: filter changes, booth cleaning, wash system maintenance).
  • Effectively communicate necessary information and status updates to management.
Abilities and Skills:
  • Working knowledge of paint and powder coating materials, application techniques, and curing processes (essential).
  • Experience operating paint and powder coating booths, spray equipment, and ovens (essential).
  • Mechanical aptitude (essential).
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to effectively communicate.
Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to perform physical activities while standing for 8 or more hours.
  • Must be able to climb stairs with ease.
  • Must be able to lift 20 pounds above the shoulders.
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
Job Type:
  • Full-time
Salary:
  • $15.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
Schedule:
  • 8-hour shift
  • Monday to Friday (Occasional Saturday)

Experience:
  • Industrial painting or powder coating: 1 year (Preferred).
Work Location:

  •  In person