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Thin Film Coating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... thin-film coating processes. • Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer abilities ...

Coating Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... thin-film coating processes. • Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer abilities ...

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... Understanding of thin-film coating processes. Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer ...

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... Understanding of thin-film coating processes. Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer ...

Coating Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... thin-film coating processes. • Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer abilities ...

Coating Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... thin-film coating processes. • Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer abilities ...

Operators work in a variety of roles, all of which are involved in manufacturing the highest ... Understanding of thin-film coating processes. Strong problem solving, data analysis, and computer ...

Thin Film Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

As a Thin Film Engineer at MKS Newport, you will partner with Thin Film Coating to design, develop, manufacture and test optical surface treatments. In this role, you will report to the Director of ...

As a Thin Film Engineer at MKS Newport, you will partner with Thin Film Coating to design, develop, manufacture and test optical surface treatments. In this role, you will report to the Director of ...

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Thin Film Coating Technician

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Coordinate with operators to meet production schedules and maintain workflow. * Communicate ... Experience with vacuum systems, sputtering equipment, or thin-film deposition processes.

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Thin Film Coating Technician

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Coordinate with operators to meet production schedules and maintain workflow. * Communicate ... Experience with vacuum systems, sputtering equipment, or thin-film deposition processes.

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Thin Film Coating Operator information

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How much do thin film coating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for thin film coating operator in the United States is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Thin Film Coating Operator vs Coating Technician?

AspectThin Film Coating OperatorCoating Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on coating equipmentHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or industrial settings, operating coating machineryIndustrial or manufacturing environments, performing coating applications and maintenance
Job FocusOperating and monitoring thin film coating equipmentApplying, inspecting, and maintaining coatings on various surfaces

The main difference is that Thin Film Coating Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring coating machinery for thin films, while Coating Technicians are more involved in applying and inspecting coatings. Both roles require similar certifications and work in industrial settings, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the coating process stage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a thin film coating operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Thin Film Coating Operator, you need a solid understanding of materials science, precision measurement, and manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with vacuum deposition equipment, cleanroom protocols, and process control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help operators maintain high quality and safety standards. These skills ensure the production of reliable, high-performance coated products essential to industries like optics and electronics.

What are some common challenges a thin film coating operator faces during production runs, and how are they typically addressed?

Thin Film Coating Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent coating thickness, minimizing contamination, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. These challenges require careful monitoring of process parameters, regular cleaning of equipment, and prompt communication with maintenance or engineering teams. Operators typically follow strict protocols and utilize precision instruments to ensure quality, while ongoing training and teamwork help address issues efficiently.

What does a thin film coating operator do?

A Thin Film Coating Operator is responsible for operating equipment that applies thin layers of material onto various substrates, such as glass, metal, or plastic. This process is often used in the production of optical coatings, electronics, or decorative finishes. The operator monitors machinery, prepares materials, ensures quality control, and troubleshoots issues during the coating process. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.
More about Thin Film Coating Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Thin Film Coating Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,086 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Thin Film Engineering Technician

Dontech Inc

Doylestown, PA • On-site

$31 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description


Location: Doylestown, PA
Department: Production - Coating
Reports to: Production Manager - Coating

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Thin Film Engineering Technician to work with the R&D Engineering team on the design, hands-on development, and optimization of advanced optical coatings for electronic display, touchscreen, precision optics, and aerospace applications (including satellites and interplanetary spacecraft). This role is pivotal in supporting high-performance and high-reliability aerospace, defense, avionic, medical, and industrial markets.
This is an excellent opportunity for an energetic, forward-thinking individual to work in a fun, fast-paced environment.

In this role, you will:
  • Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and production staff to ensure successful transfer of coating designs and process details to manufacturing.
  • Help create and optimize processes for complex thin film coatings (e.g., AR, dichroic short wave pass filters, dielectrically enhanced ITO coatings) using industry-standard software (TFCalc, FilmStar) and through hands on processing of batch and roll-to roll thin film coating systems.
  • Operate and help maintain thin film vacuum deposition systems (e-beam, ion-assisted deposition, sputtering) in a cleanroom environment. Prepare, run, and monitor thin film coating processes, including multilayer stacks for reflection, transmission, and conductivity performance.
  • Measure and evaluate coatings using optical and physical metrology tools (e.g., spectrophotometers, profilometers, ellipsometers, adhesion and abrasion resistance).
  • Troubleshoot coating runs/defects and assist with root cause analysis for process deviations.
  • Help perform preventive maintenance on vacuum pumps, chambers, and associated equipment.
  • Support fixture design and provide input on process improvements.
  • Help develop and maintain process documentation including best practice work instructions, engineering-to-production work order conversions, FMEA, control plans, and PPAPs.
  • Mentor less experienced technicians and provide technical leadership across coating operations.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate customer specifications into manufacturable coating solutions.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of processes, runs, and test results.
  • Support production as needed.
  • Safely handle equipment and materials in accordance with company policies and industry standards.
Why Join Dontech?

Since 1971, Dontech has been at the forefront of engineering and manufacturing advanced optical coatings, filters, and assemblies that solve mission-critical challenges in aerospace, avionics, military, medical, and high-reliability industrial applications. We innovate solutions for problems worth solving - whether it’s creating conductive optical filters for cockpit displays, thermal coatings for satellites, or transparent heaters for medical imaging systems.
As a Thin Film Engineering Technician, you’ll be part of a close-knit, results-driven team dedicated to innovation, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction. At Dontech, you won’t just be operating equipment—you’ll be contributing to the performance and reliability of systems that matter.
We are a privately held, family-owned company with a 50+ year track record of growth, teamwork, and integrity. If you value hands-on problem-solving, technical excellence, and a collaborative culture, we’d love to have you apply to be considered for our team.

Qualifications
  • Associate’s degree in a technical discipline (physics, engineering technology, optics, or similar) or high school diploma with equivalent relevant technical experience – combination of hands on and formal education towards a Bachelor of Science in Optical or Electrical Engineering, or towards a Bachelor of Science in Physics. We value high skill level and relevant experience over only having the formal education. Candidates with significant relevant experience are encouraged to apply.
  • 5–10 years of experience in high-performance optical thin film coating design and manufacturing. Hands-on experience with thin film vacuum deposition processes (electron beam, ion-assisted, DLC, sputtering, and IBS).
  • Deep understanding of high vacuum systems, deposition physics, and thin film characterization. Familiarity with optical test equipment and coating evaluation methods. Proficiency in coating design software and optical simulation tools.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Experience in low to mid-volume, high-mix production environments.
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to follow detailed work instructions and keep accurate technical records.
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
  • Reliable, on-site attendance.
  • U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Person status required (per ITAR regulations).
  • Dontech may consider candidates with less experience who demonstrate strong technical (e.g., mechanical/electrical) aptitude, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn. Pay rate offered would be commensurate with experience.

The Physical Demands: The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is:

  • Regularly required to communicate, verbally (in person or over the phone), in writing and via email;
  • Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle, hold or reach;
  • Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. regularly;
  • Ability to lift up to 45 lbs. occasionally (may be done with the assistance of another employee);
  • Ability to perform duties inside a clean room, wearing required appropriate gowning, including but not limited to latex/non-latex gloves, and paper half-mask;
  • Considerable mental and visual effort;
  • Color vision correctable to 20/20;
  • Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles and electrical shock;
  • Occasionally working in an area where the noise level is above normal; and
  • Must be odor tolerant of cleaning agents (e.g., acetone, rubbing alcohol).
What We Offer
  • Compensation includes a competitive base hourly pay rate, taking into consideration applicable experience. Eligible for overtime and annual bonus consideration.
  • Opportunities for technical growth and hands-on learning in advanced optics and thin film technology.
  • A collaborative environment rooted in Dontech’s Core Values: innovation, teamwork, integrity, customer satisfaction, and employee work/life balance.
  • The chance to make a direct impact on high-reliability applications—from aircraft cockpits to space exploration.

Dontech's Benefits Package for Full-Time Regular employees (regular schedules of 30+ hours per week) includes:

  • Medical (or opt-out), including Telemedicine and a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) option
  • Vision
  • Prescription
  • Dental
  • Hospital / Accident / Critical Illness options
  • 401(k)
  • Profit Sharing
  • Flexible spending accounts for health care or dependent care savings
  • Life (Company paid as well as optional additional voluntary coverage)
  • Short-term Disability
  • Long-term Disability
  • Legal Insurance option
  • Identity Theft Insurance option
  • Training Opportunities
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Time Off (prorated for regular schedules between 30 and 40 hours/week)
  • Paid Holidays (prorated for regular schedules between 30 and 40 hours/week)
Ready to apply?

If you’re excited by the idea of innovating coatings that perform in the world’s most demanding environments, we’d like to hear from you. Apply today and help Dontech continue solving problems worth solving.

Dontech Inc. is located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, north of Philadelphia in Central Bucks County.
Dontech Inc.
700 Airport Blvd.
Doylestown, PA 18902
http://www.dontech.com/
Apply through this site or by mail to above listed address.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Dontech Inc, please call Human Resources at 215-348-5010.