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Powder Coating Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Travel Coating Laborer

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

The Coating Laborer will apply coatings to a variety of materials, surfaces, and pipes. They will be working mostly outdoors in industrial construction environments, performing a variety of tasks ...

Travel Coating Laborer

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Coating Laborer will apply coatings to a variety of materials, surfaces, and pipes. They will be working mostly outdoors in industrial construction environments, performing a variety of tasks ...

Previous painting, priming or industrial coating experience preferred * Ability to prepare and inspect metal surfaces for painting * Ability to safely operate and maintain paint equipment * Must be ...

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Powder Coating information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do powder coating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for powder coating in Des Moines, IA is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is powder coating?

Powder coating is a finishing process in which a dry, powdered paint is electrostatically applied to a surface and then cured under heat to form a durable, protective, and decorative layer. This method is commonly used on metals like aluminum, steel, and automotive parts, offering a high-quality finish that is resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading. Powder coating is also environmentally friendly because it produces less hazardous waste compared to traditional liquid painting. The process comes in a wide variety of colors and textures to suit different applications.

What are powder coating jobs?

Powder coating jobs are positions in which you help paint and finish various products—often, but not exclusively, metal—using a dry powder coat that can be treated to become a solid surface. In this role, you may help prepare components, spray on the powder, and ensure that the final product meets all manufacturing standards. Most powder coating jobs take place in regulated environments that help minimize the chance of irregularities while using the specialized tools required to make powder coating work. Powder coating jobs also help move products into and out of an oven to cure the surface and ensure a smooth, even finish.

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

To excel as a Powder Coating Technician, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation, coating application techniques, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with powder coating guns, curing ovens, and quality control systems is commonly required, with some employers seeking certifications such as PCI (Powder Coating Institute) credentials. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for ensuring consistent, high-quality finishes. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintain safety standards, minimize defects, and achieve optimal product durability and appearance.

What are some common challenges faced by powder coating technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Powder coating technicians often encounter challenges such as achieving a uniform finish, preventing contamination, and managing the curing process. Dust, humidity, and improper surface preparation can affect the quality of the coating. Staying vigilant about equipment maintenance, regularly cleaning work areas, and closely following safety and process protocols help address these issues. Team collaboration is important, as technicians frequently coordinate with quality control and production teams to ensure standards are met and deadlines are achieved.

What is the difference between Powder Coating vs Spray Painter?

AspectPowder CoatingSpray Painter
CredentialsTypically requires certification in powder coating applicationRequires spray painting certification or license
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, spray booths, manufacturing plantsAuto body shops, industrial painting facilities
Industry UsageUsed for durable, high-quality finishes on metal productsUsed for decorative and protective finishes on various surfaces

Powder Coating and Spray Painter roles both involve applying finishes, but Powder Coating uses a dry powder applied electrostatically and cured in an oven, offering durable results. Spray Painters typically use liquid paints applied with spray guns, suitable for a variety of surfaces. While both require knowledge of surface preparation and safety protocols, their application methods and end uses differ significantly.

Do you need a license to powder coat?

In most regions, powder coating technicians do not require a specific license, but they may need to follow safety regulations and obtain certifications related to handling hazardous materials and operating spray equipment. Employers often provide training on safety standards and proper procedures. Licensing requirements can vary by location, so it's important to check local regulations for compliance.

Is powder coating hard work?

Powder coating as a job involves operating specialized equipment, working in a physically demanding environment, and maintaining safety protocols. It requires attention to detail, some physical strength, and the ability to work with chemicals and high temperatures, making it moderately to physically demanding work. Proper training and safety measures are essential for this role.
Infographic showing various Powder Coating job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,783 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Automotive and Industrial Paint Booth Outside Sales Professional

Arnold Motor Supply

Urbandale, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Arnold Motor Supply rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

For nearly 100 years, Arnold Motor Supply has provided amazing career opportunities for those who prefer to keep things simple; we focus on relationships, service, and expertise. We're passionate about what we do and always strive to be the best in our business across the five states and 80 locations in which we operate.


The Automotive & Industrial Paint Booth Outside Sales Professional drives sales of automotive refinish and industrial finishing equipment including paint booths, prep stations, mixing rooms, spray equipment, air systems, and related shop solutions. This individual develops new business while growing existing customer relationships by providing consultative solutions that improve customer productivity, compliance, profitability, and quality.


The ideal candidate understands collision repair, industrial manufacturing, finishing operations, and capital equipment sales.


Please note: This role reports to our paint division leader at headquarters, but candidates will work remotely from a home office. Although this position is posted across several locations, candidates should ideally live anywhere in Iowa and as far west as Lincoln, NE.


Essential Responsibilities

Business Development

  • Prospect and develop new automotive collision, commercial vehicle, fleet, industrial manufacturing, powder coating, and finishing customers.
  • Generate leads through cold calling, referrals, trade shows, networking, and existing customer relationships.
  • Identify facility expansion and new construction opportunities.
  • Build relationships with shop owners, plant managers, engineers, estimators, and purchasing personnel.

Sales & Consulting

  • Conduct facility evaluations and workflow assessments.
  • Recommend paint booths, prep stations, air make-up units, mixing rooms, compressed air systems, and finishing equipment.
  • Develop complete turnkey solutions including installation and service.
  • Prepare professional quotations and equipment proposals.
  • Present ROI calculations and productivity improvements.
  • Negotiate pricing and close equipment sales.

Project Management

  • Coordinate with engineering, contractors, electricians, HVAC contractors, and installation teams.
  • Monitor project timelines from order through installation.
  • Ensure customer satisfaction throughout the project.
  • Assist with startup and customer training.

Customer Support

  • Maintain long-term customer relationships.
  • Generate repeat business through preventative maintenance programs.
  • Promote replacement parts, filters, lighting, doors, controls, and service agreements.
  • Identify future expansion opportunities.

Market Development

Develop opportunities in:

  • Collision repair centers
  • Heavy-duty truck repair facilities
  • Fleet maintenance operations
  • Auto dealerships
  • Manufacturing facilities
  • Powder coating operations
  • Agricultural equipment manufacturers
  • Metal fabrication shops
  • Aerospace finishing
  • Industrial coating facilities

________________________________________

Products Sold

  • Automotive paint booths
  • Industrial paint booths
  • Powder coating booths
  • Prep stations
  • Mixing rooms
  • Air make-up units
  • Spray equipment
  • Compressed air systems
  • Paint curing systems
  • Explosion-proof lighting
  • Booth filters
  • Dust collection systems
  • Paint booth controls
  • Booth service contracts
  • Preventive maintenance programs



Requirements

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate is a consultative salesperson who can build trust with collision shop owners, plant managers, and manufacturing leaders. They understand that selling a paint booth is more than selling equipment-they help customers improve throughput, reduce operating costs, ensure OSHA and environmental compliance, and maximize profitability through complete finishing solutions.


Qualifications

  • 3+ years outside sales experience preferred
  • Experience in automotive collision, industrial finishing, manufacturing, or capital equipment sales strongly preferred
  • Strong consultative selling skills
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to read shop layouts and blueprints is a plus
  • Excellent presentation and negotiation skills
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational abilities
  • Proficient with CRM software and Microsoft Office
  • Valid driver's license with ability to travel extensively

________________________________________

Preferred Experience

  • Collision repair industry
  • Industrial painting or coatings
  • Paint booth equipment
  • Body shop operations
  • Manufacturing processes
  • Powder coating systems
  • Air compressor systems
  • HVAC or ventilation systems
  • Capital equipment sales

________________________________________

Performance Expectations (KPIs)

  • Annual sales revenue goal
  • Gross profit margin achievement
  • New customer acquisition
  • Number of facility assessments completed
  • Equipment proposals submitted
  • Closing ratio
  • Service contract sales
  • Preventive maintenance agreement growth
  • Customer retention rate
  • CRM activity compliance

________________________________________

Compensation

  • Competitive base salary plus commission
  • Monthly and annual performance bonuses
  • Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
  • Expense reimbursement
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Ongoing technical and sales training



What Arnold Motor Supply employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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