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Powder Coating Jobs in Newark, DE (NOW HIRING)

... of materials (powder processing, mixing, furnacing, other), materials testing (in-process ... plating/coating and application tests. All results will be documented (data summaries, Work ...

Powder Coating information

See Newark, DE salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do powder coating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for powder coating in Newark, DE is $18.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.90 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 Newark, DE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,148 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

R&D Materials Engineer

Coherent

Newark, DE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D group to develop new products from advanced ceramic and metal matrix composite materials.  Activities include hands-on prototyping, continuous improvement of processes, testing, reporting, and interfacing with vendors, customers and various internal departments.  Work functions are broad and can include design, mold production, fabrication of fixtures, processing of materials (powder processing, mixing, furnacing, other), materials testing (in-process measurements, post-fabrication properties, other), process optimization (cycle time, quality, yield), and data collection.  In addition, work with external sources will leverage internal capabilities in the areas of toll processing, materials characterization, plating/coating and application tests.  All results will be documented (data summaries, Work Instructions, reports).  Successful new products will be transferred to manufacturing (specifying equipment, training personnel, monitoring results).  Position includes participation in Lean, Six-sigma, Kaizen, FMEA, 6S, and yield enhancement activities.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, equipment operation, powder processing, furnacing, and inspection
  • Develop and improve production methods for ceramic-based composite materials
  • Perform materials characterization for microstructure, composition, mechanical behavior and thermal properties
  • Generate PC-based outputs on standard platforms (Office, Agile, Oracle, Cumulus, Creo, Solidworks, others)
  • Continuous improvement via participation in Lean/Kaizen, ISO, 8D and other related activities
  • Interface with outside entities (customers, tooling suppliers, equipment vendors, toll manufacturers and test labs)
  • Transfer successful products to Manufacturing, including writing documentation, specifying equipment, conducting training, and monitoring results

Education & Experience

  • BS in Materials Engineering (or equivalent engineering education)
  • 0 to 5 years of experience in advanced materials field

Skills

  • Experience processing advanced materials (ceramics, metal matrix composites, other)
  • Background with materials processing equipment (powders, furnaces, mixers)
  • Knowledge of materials characterization methods (SEM, PSD, wet chemistry, thermal properties, mechanical properties)
  • Aptitude for external interfacing with both vendors and customers

Working Conditions

  • Position requires on-site activities for prototype fabrication (this is not a work from home position).
  • Work schedule is 5 days, 40 hrs per week, first shift.

Physical Requirements

Hands-on, lab-based job environment:

  • Required to frequently lift/push/pull a minimum of 35 lbs
  • Must be able to sit, bend, squat and walk about facility
  • Depending on project assignment, may be required to walk/stand for entire 8 hour day

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards.  This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.

Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently.  They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.