Coating Operator

Coating Operator / Plasma Sprayer

The Coating Operator / Plasma Sprayer sets up, operates, and monitors plasma spray and thermal spray equipment to apply high-quality coatings to components in accordance with 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.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor plasma spray equipment and related thermal spray systems to apply coatings to components.
• Prepare component surfaces through cleaning, masking, grit blasting, and other required surface preparation methods.
• Apply thermal spray coatings to components in line with work instructions, engineering specifications, and quality requirements.
• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, process sheets, work orders, and coating specifications to ensure proper application.
• Measure coating thickness and inspect finished parts using appropriate testing and measuring equipment to verify compliance.
• Monitor spray parameters during operations and make necessary adjustments to maintain coating quality and consistency.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on plasma spray equipment and associated systems to ensure reliable operation.
• Maintain accurate production, inspection, and process documentation for all coating activities.
• Follow all company safety procedures, environmental regulations, and quality standards while performing coating and preparation tasks.
• Assist with process improvements, equipment maintenance activities, and special projects related to coating operations and efficiency.
• Conduct inspection of parts before and after coating to confirm proper surface preparation and coating integrity.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to identify opportunities to improve coating processes, equipment utilization, and overall workflow.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 25 years of experience in plasma spraying, thermal spray operations, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience setting up and operating plasma spray systems and other thermal spray equipment.
• Knowledge of thermal spray coating processes, materials, and equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Experience using measuring and inspection equipment to verify coating thickness and other coating requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to producing high-quality workmanship.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and resolve basic equipment and process issues.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions, process sheets, and coating specifications consistently.
• Solid understanding of safe work practices in a manufacturing and thermal spray environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Technical or vocational training in manufacturing, machining, coatings, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience with plasma spray, HVOF, flame spray, or other thermal spray processes.
• Familiarity with aerospace, industrial, or OEM coating specifications and standards.
• Experience with grit blasting and other advanced surface preparation techniques.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience is preferred.
• Quality inspection or coating certification experience is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a manual, equipment-intensive manufacturing environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to support continuous improvement initiatives.

Why Work Here?

You join a team that values quality craftsmanship and takes pride in delivering reliable coating solutions in a laid-back, supportive culture. The environment encourages learning, hands-on skill development, and collaboration, giving you the opportunity to deepen your expertise in thermal spray technologies while contributing to meaningful industrial and engineering applications.

Work Environment

This role is based in a traditional manufacturing plant that relies heavily on manual machines and hands-on processes. You work in a production environment around thermal spray equipment, grit blasting systems, and inspection tools, following established safety and environmental procedures. The setting emphasizes practical, shop-floor work with a focus on safe operation, attention to detail, and teamwork in an industrial atmosphere.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Charlotte, NC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 2026.