Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders: What You Need to Know

If you’re looking for a career that involves hands-on work and attention to detail, a job as a coating, painting, or spraying machine setter, operator, or tender might be the right fit for you. These workers are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that applies coatings, paints, and other finishes to a wide range of surfaces, from cars and furniture to airplanes and buildings.

What Does a Coating, Painting, or Spraying Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender Do?

The exact duties of someone working in this field can vary depending on the specific job and industry. However, here are a few examples of the work that might be involved:

• Preparing surfaces for coating or painting, which might include sanding, cleaning, or masking areas that should not be painted
• Inspecting equipment to ensure it’s functioning properly and making necessary adjustments to settings or machines
• Measuring and mixing paints or other coatings to ensure proper consistency and color
• Operating spray guns, robots, or other machinery to apply coatings to surfaces
• Monitoring equipment during operation to ensure it’s running smoothly and making necessary adjustments
• Cleaning and maintaining machinery and work areas

Education and Training

To become a coating, painting, or spraying machine setter, operator, or tender, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers might also prefer or require some post-secondary education or vocational training in areas such as welding or automotive technology.

Beyond educational requirements, on-the-job training is typically essential for anyone entering this field. Employers might provide training that covers the specific equipment and processes used in their industry.

Progression and Advancement

As workers gain experience in this field, they might have opportunities to advance to roles with more responsibility or higher pay. For example, a coating, painting, or spraying machine setter might progress to become a supervisor or manager.

There might also be opportunities to specialize within the field. For example, someone working in automotive painting might become a specialist in applying particular types of coatings or finishes to auto body parts.

Getting Started in the Field

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a coating, painting, or spraying machine setter, operator, or tender, there are a few steps you can take to get started:

• Research the companies and industries in your area that require workers with this skillset
• Look for entry-level positions in this field, such as assistant or trainee positions
• Consider taking vocational classes or pursuing certification in areas like welding, automotive technology, or industrial coating application
• Gain exposure to the field by completing internships or volunteering with organizations that work with coatings, paints, or finishes

Conclusion

A career as a coating, painting, or spraying machine setter, operator, or tender can offer interesting work and opportunities for advancement. By gaining a solid education and training, and gaining experience in the field, you can build a rewarding career in this dynamic industry.

Salary Information

Coating, painting, and spraying machine setters, operators, and tenders have a salary range of $32,323.20 to $58,052.80 per year, with an average salary of $46,716.80. The job level ranges from entry to experienced, and the union status can affect the salary. On average, union workers in this occupation make $51,750.40 per year, while nonunion workers make $45,448.00 per year.

The highest paid region for this occupation is Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, with an average salary of $61,464.00 per year. On the other hand, the lowest paid region is Birmingham-Hoover, AL, with an average salary of $37,564.80 per year.