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Surface Finishes Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operations Associate

Addison, IL · On-site

$38K - $43K/yr

The key responsibilities of the Operations Associate are as follows: · Produce, package and prepare Surface Finishes products for shipment · Position focus is grinding, lapping, diamond turning ...

Experienced Metal Finishers

Willoughby, OH

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

This position plays a critical role in achieving the premium surface finishes our projects are known for. From mirror-polished stainless to brushed brass and custom patinas. The ideal candidate has ...

Grinder

Latrobe, PA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Set up, program, and operate Danobat and Studer CNC ID cylindrical grinders to achieve exacting tolerances and surface finishes. * Knowledge of Overbeck and Heald manual grinders a Plus. * Interpret ...

Grinder Operator

Cleveland, OH

$17 - $21/hr

Hold tight tolerances and surface finishes to produce quality parts. Basic reading and understanding of blueprints Use micrometers and indicators Measure an increment as small as 0.0001 (1/10,000 ...

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Robotic Polisher

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

The Robotic Polisher is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining robotic polishing systems to ensure high-quality surface finishes on metal or composite components. The role involves ...

CNC Machinist

Racine, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Responsibilities also include monitoring machining processes, conducting quality inspections, and making adjustments as needed to ensure accurate dimensions and surface finishes. The ideal candidate ...

CNC Machinist

Racine, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Responsibilities also include monitoring machining processes, conducting quality inspections, and making adjustments as needed to ensure accurate dimensions and surface finishes. The ideal candidate ...

CNC Machinist

Racine, WI

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Responsibilities also include monitoring machining processes, conducting quality inspections, and making adjustments as needed to ensure accurate dimensions and surface finishes. The ideal candidate ...

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Surface Finishes information

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How much do surface finishes jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface finishes in the United States is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surface Finishes Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surface Finishes Technician, you need a solid understanding of surface preparation, coating application techniques, and material properties, often supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools and equipment such as spray guns, abrasive blasters, and quality control instruments, as well as safety standards like OSHA regulations, is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure high-quality, durable surface treatments that meet safety and aesthetic standards in manufacturing or construction environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Surface Finishes professionals, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Surface Finishes professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality across large batches, managing tight production deadlines, and ensuring the safe handling of chemicals. Addressing these issues involves adhering to strict process controls, routinely calibrating equipment, and following safety protocols. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and ongoing training on new finishing techniques can also help professionals stay ahead of industry standards and overcome these challenges.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

In the field of surface finishes, high-level executive roles such as CEO or COO of large manufacturing companies can earn over $1 million annually, often including bonuses and stock options. Additionally, specialized consultants or entrepreneurs in the industry with successful businesses may reach this income level, but such earnings are rare and typically require extensive experience and a strong network.

What does a surface technician do?

A surface technician is responsible for applying finishes, coatings, or treatments to surfaces such as metal, plastic, or wood to improve appearance, durability, and corrosion resistance. They often prepare surfaces through cleaning, sanding, or masking, and may use tools like spray guns or brushes. The role requires attention to detail and knowledge of surface preparation and finishing techniques.

What is an example of surface finishing?

Surface finishing in the context of surface finishes involves processes that improve the appearance, durability, or function of a material's surface, such as polishing, grinding, or coating. For example, electroplating adds a thin metal layer to enhance corrosion resistance and appearance. These processes are commonly performed by skilled workers using specialized tools and equipment to achieve the desired surface quality.

What is surface finishing in career technology?

Surface finishing in career technology refers to processes used to improve the appearance, durability, and performance of a material's surface, such as polishing, coating, or plating. Professionals in this field often operate specialized equipment and may require knowledge of materials science and safety protocols to ensure quality results.

What are surface finishes?

Surface finishes refer to the processes and techniques used to alter the surface of a material, typically metal, plastic, or wood, to achieve a desired texture, appearance, or functional property. This can include methods like polishing, coating, plating, painting, or texturing to improve aesthetics, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, or ease of cleaning. Surface finishes are essential in manufacturing and construction to enhance product performance and longevity. The choice of surface finish depends on the material, intended use, and required properties of the finished product.

What is the difference between Surface Finishes vs Surface Coatings?

AspectSurface FinishesSurface Coatings
CredentialsTypically no specific certifications, but knowledge of finishing techniquesOften requires certifications like NACE or SSPC
Work EnvironmentFactories, workshops, manufacturing plantsFactories, industrial sites, application environments
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, automotive, aerospacePrimarily in corrosion protection, aesthetics, and durability
PurposeEnhance appearance, texture, or prepare surfacesProtect surfaces from corrosion, wear, or environmental damage

Surface Finishes focus on improving appearance and texture, while Surface Coatings provide protective layers to extend the lifespan of surfaces. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and industrial sectors, often overlapping but serving distinct primary functions.

What cities are hiring for Surface Finishes jobs? Cities with the most Surface Finishes job openings:
What states have the most Surface Finishes jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Finishes jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surface Finishes jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surface Finishes jobs are:
Operations Associate

Operations Associate

Surface Finishes

Addison, IL • On-site

$38K - $43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

The key responsibilities of the Operations Associate are as follows:

·       Produce, package and prepare Surface Finishes products for shipment

·       Position focus is grinding, lapping, diamond turning, and machining

·       Perform required data entry and record keeping

·       Perform required quality testing and inspections

·       Maintain safe and clean working environment

·       Immediately address any deviation to Surface Finishes values, procedures, policies, etc.

·       Note:  Processes are not routine. Every job is different with moderate to extreme complexity

Additional responsibilities include the following:

·        Contribute to plant safety initiatives

·        Perform miscellaneous production and warehouse related tasks (for example: preventive maintenance, housekeeping, inventory, incident investigation)