Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Salary 2025: $48,250 Median
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn a median annual salary of $48,250, or about $23 per hour, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The top 10% of workers make over $74,730, while the bottom 10% earn less than $36,260.
Total employment for this occupation stands at 158,740 jobs across the U.S. Most workers apply protective and decorative coatings to metal, wood, plastic, and other surfaces using spray guns or automated equipment.
How much Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn
The national mean wage is $52,620, with hourly earnings averaging $25.30. The middle half of workers bring home between $36,260 and $74,730 annually.
- 10th percentile: $36,260
- 25th percentile: $41,560 (approx.)
- Median: $48,250
- 75th percentile: $60,420 (approx.)
- 90th percentile: $74,730
Pay by state
Alaska is the highest-paying state for this job, with an average salary of $69,910. Washington follows at $59,980, then New Jersey ($58,240), Maine ($56,200), and Maryland ($55,510). On the lower end, Michigan averages $44,670, Alabama $44,250, and West Virginia $42,950. Location clearly affects earnings, with northern and coastal states generally paying more.
How to become Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tender
Most workers learn through on-the-job training that lasts a few months to a year. Formal education beyond a high school diploma is rarely required, though vocational school courses in painting or finishing can help. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in manufacturing or a related trade.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level positions in manufacturing, automotive, or aerospace finishing.
- Complete on-the-job training—typically 3 to 12 months—learning equipment setup, spray techniques, and safety.
- Consider earning a certificate from a community college or trade school in industrial coating or spray finishing.
- Optional: Pursue certifications like those from the National Association of Corrosion Engineers for specialized work.
Job outlook
Employment of Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders is projected to grow 0.7% from 2024 to 2034—much slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 15,800 job openings per year, largely from workers leaving the field. Automation and improved coating methods may limit demand, but replacements will keep the occupation steady. Skilled workers in specialized coatings (e.g., aerospace or industrial paint) will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders?
The national median salary is $48,250 per year, with a mean of $52,620. Hourly pay averages $25.30.
How do I become a Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender?
You typically need a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training lasting a few months to a year. Vocational training in spray finishing or industrial painting can help you stand out.
What is the job growth for this occupation?
Employment is projected to grow by 0.7% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. About 15,800 openings per year are expected due to turnover.
Which states pay the most?
The highest-paying states are Alaska ($69,910), Washington ($59,980), New Jersey ($58,240), Maine ($56,200), and Maryland ($55,510).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders data.