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Powder Coating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Painter - Powder Coat

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Powder Coat Operator to support our powder coating department. This position is responsible for preparing, coating, curing, inspecting ...

Experience operating paint and powder coating equipment. * Knowledge of surface preparation techniques and coating adhesion requirements. * Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and hazardous material handling ...

Powder Coater

Provo, UT ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Familiarity with operating powder coating equipment and curing ovens. * Understanding of product specifications and quality assurance procedures. * Ability to read and interpret technical drawings ...

Experience operating paint and powder coating equipment. * Knowledge of surface preparation techniques and coating adhesion requirements. * Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and hazardous material handling ...

Showing results 41-60

Powder Coating Operator information

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$12

$18

$24

How much do powder coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 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 powder coating a hard job?

Powder coating as a job involves operating specialized equipment and working with chemicals, which can require physical effort and attention to safety protocols. The difficulty level depends on the complexity of the tasks, the work environment, and experience with tools and processes. Proper training and adherence to safety standards are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a powder coating operator?

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.

What is a powder coating operator?

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.

How hard is it to get into a powder coating operator career?

Becoming a powder coating operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training. Basic knowledge of safety procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with coating equipment can help ease entry into the field, which often offers opportunities for skill development and advancement.

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.

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.
More about Powder Coating Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Powder Coating Operator jobs? Cities with the most Powder Coating Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Powder Coating Operator jobs? The most popular types of Powder Coating Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Powder Coating Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% 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

The Kirlin Company

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 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