Spray Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

The Coating Operator sets up, operates, and monitors plasma spray and related thermal spray equipment to apply high-quality coatings on components according to customer specifications, engineering requirements, and strict quality standards. This role prepares surfaces, applies thermal spray coatings, inspects finished parts, and maintains accurate documentation while supporting a safe, efficient, and continuous improvement-focused manufacturing environment.

• Set up, operate, and monitor plasma spray equipment and related thermal spray systems to perform thermal spray coating operations on various components.
• Prepare component surfaces through cleaning, masking, grit blasting, and other required surface preparation methods to ensure proper coating adhesion.
• Apply thermal spray coatings to components in accordance with work instructions, engineering drawings, coating specifications, and quality requirements.
• Interpret engineering drawings, process sheets, work orders, and coating specifications to determine appropriate coating processes and parameters.
• Measure coating thickness and inspect finished parts using appropriate testing and measuring equipment to verify compliance with specifications.
• Monitor spray parameters during operation and make necessary adjustments to maintain coating quality, consistency, and process stability.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on plasma spray equipment and associated systems to ensure reliable operation.
• Maintain accurate production, inspection, and process documentation, including records of spray parameters, coating results, and quality checks.
• Follow all company safety procedures, environmental regulations, and quality standards to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
• Assist with process improvements, equipment maintenance activities, and special projects to enhance efficiency, quality, and equipment performance.
• Work collaboratively with team members to coordinate coating operations, surface preparation, and inspection tasks to meet production schedules.
• Support inspection of parts and coatings to identify defects, nonconformances, and opportunities for process improvement.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 2–5 years of experience in plasma spraying, thermal spray operations, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with plasma spray systems and thermal spray equipment used for coating applications.
• Knowledge of thermal spray coating processes, materials, and equipment, including coating machine operation and surface preparation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Experience using measuring and inspection equipment to verify coating thickness, surface condition, and overall coating requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to producing high-quality workmanship and meeting precise specifications.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand and work with complex machinery and equipment.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve equipment, process, and coating issues.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions, process sheets, and quality standards consistently.
• Capability to maintain accurate production, inspection, and process documentation.

• Technical or vocational training in manufacturing, coatings, or related fields is preferred.
• Experience with plasma spray, HVOF, flame spray, or other thermal spray processes.
• Familiarity with aerospace, industrial, or OEM coating specifications and requirements.
• Experience with grit blasting and other surface preparation techniques.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience is preferred.
• Quality inspection or coating certification experience is a plus.

You will join a company with a laid-back, supportive culture where you can apply your technical skills in a stable manufacturing environment. The team values quality, safety, and continuous improvement, giving you the opportunity to grow your expertise in advanced coating technologies while working with experienced professionals who respect work-life balance and practical, hands-on craftsmanship.

This role is based in a traditional manufacturing plant that features a variety of manual machines and established production processes. You will work around thermal spray equipment, grit blasting systems, and inspection tools in a shop environment that emphasizes safety procedures and adherence to environmental and quality regulations. The setting is hands-on and industrial, with regular interaction with machinery, coatings, and surface preparation operations.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Charlotte, NC.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Charlotte,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 19, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.