To work as a painting and coating machine operator, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education beyond high school is required for this job. Painting and coating machine operators that work with vehicles typically need a driver's license.

On-the-job training

Painting and coating machine operators usually learn their skills on the job. You generally learn from experienced workers or painting machine manufacturers. During training, you begin as a helper. As you get more experience you learn how to set and operate painting machines. Over time, you can learn how to operate computer-controlled painting machines. Training may last up to one year.