How much does a coating operator make?

In the U.S., pay can vary with experience and skills, useful credentials, the employer or industry, and location. More complex or responsible tasks may pay more.

Set up, operate, or tend spraying or rolling machines to coat or paint any of a wide variety of products, including glassware, cloth, ceramics, metal, plastic, paper, or wood, with lacquer, silver, copper, rubber, varnish, glaze, enamel, oil, or rust-proofing materials. Includes painters of transportation vehicles such as painters in auto body repair facilities. Excludes “Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic” (51-4193).

What's a typical day like?

They set spray nozzles to match a moving conveyor and watch gauges as the machine coats products. They check for uneven spots, touch up flaws, and wear masks and gloves.

In the U.S., a high school diploma or equivalent is typical; workers usually start in an entry-level job and learn on the job for several months. Computer-controlled machines may require extra programming training.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

O*NET reports that 58% of surveyed U.S. workers in this occupation said they face hazardous conditions every day.