Coating Operator 1

AkzoNobel; Lancaster (SC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Progression pay-for-skill

Medical insurance with HSA

Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits

Annual bonus

401K with company match

Generous vacation, personal andHoliday

Employee appreciation days

Paid parental leave

Diversity & Inclusion networks

Career growth opportunities

Employee referral bonus

Job summary

AkzoNobel in Lancaster, SC seeks a Coating Operator 1 trainee to support safe, efficient production. You will assist with machine setup, loader operations, and basic coating processes under supervision, learning coating heads, ovens, and related equipment.

The role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and teamwork within a structured Operator 1 Training Plan, with opportunities for advancement to Operator 2 upon qualification. Training includes use of the ERP system and adherence to quality standards.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing experience preferred.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist with machine setup and operation for production runs.
• Handle material rolls at unwind and rewind stations.
• Follow quality control procedures and report defects.
• Record material transactions in the ERP system.
• Maintain housekeeping and safe working environment.
• Assist in cleaning equipment and handling hazardous materials per procedures.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Syteline ERP

Job description

Requisition ID56463-Posted11/02/2026-Lancaster, SC, Highway 9 bypass W1872- Posting Country:State (1) -G5

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

Assist in the safe and efficient operation of coating equipment by supporting machine setup, material handling, equipment cleaning, quality inspections, and daily production activities. Develop a foundational understanding of coating processes, equipment, safety requirements, and quality standards while completing the established Operator 1 Training Plan and demonstrating proficiency in required tasks under the guidance of qualified operators and supervision.

Key Accountabilities

• Maintain an acceptable level of housekeeping and cleanliness throughout assigned work areas, including clean room requirements.
• Assist with machine setup, operation, and preparation for production runs under the direction of qualified operators.
• Perform splices and assist with loading, unloading, and positioning material rolls at unwind and rewind stations.
• Develop and demonstrate basic knowledge of coating equipment, including coating heads, ovens, unwind, rewind, laminators, web handling systems, and associated components.
• Demonstrate an introductory understanding of coating application methods, including direct slot, reverse roll, and slot post-meter coating.
• Use the ERP system (Syteline) to record and complete required material transactions.
• Read and understand job orders, specifications, and production instructions.
• Assist with monitoring coating quality at the coating head (wet) and rewind (dry), identifying and flagging defects in accordance with established quality standards.
• Follow established quality control procedures, including defect identification, documentation, and nonconforming material reporting.
• Assist with equipment cleaning before and after production runs, including pumps, hoses, filters, vacuum boxes, and other support equipment.
• Properly handle and transport raw materials using approved procedures and authorized material handling equipment.
• Assist in minimizing production waste, improving machine efficiency, and maintaining product quality.
• Maintain storage cabinets and ensure required supplies are available in assigned production areas.
• Follow established safety procedures, including PPE requirements, machine guarding, grounding and bonding, emergency response, and incident reporting.
• Properly handle, collect, label, and manage hazardous waste generated during daily operations in accordance with established site procedures and applicable RCRA regulations.
• Complete initial hazardous waste management training during onboarding and annual refresher training covering waste handling, labeling, storage, accumulation requirements, spill prevention, emergency response, and individual responsibilities. Training includes a knowledge assessment (quiz) to validate employee understanding and competency.
• Attend required monthly safety training and other assigned training sessions.
• Complete the Operator 1 Training Plan and demonstrate proficiency in assigned tasks through documented training and trainer sign-off.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, operators, and other team members.
• Follow all company policies, safety requirements, and established operating procedures.
• Perform other assigned duties as directed by supervision.

Level of Autonomy

• Ability to read and interpret written information
• Work in a team environment

Job Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Previous manufacturing experience
• Good communication and interpersonal skills

Training and Qualification Requirements

• Employees must successfully complete the established Coating Operator 1 Training Plan, demonstrating competency in required safety practices, equipment knowledge, quality procedures, material handling, housekeeping, and operational tasks. Qualification is verified through documented training, demonstrated proficiency, and authorized trainer sign-off. Successful completion of Operator 1 training establishes eligibility for evaluation for advancement to Operator 2, subject to additional qualification requirements.

Total Compensation

Perks for Joining AkzoNobel!

• Progression (pay-for-skill) pay plans
• Medical insurance with HSA
• Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits
• Annual bonus
• 401K retirement savings with 6% company match
• Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay
• Employee appreciation days
• Paid Parental leave
• Active Diversity and Inclusion Networks
• Career growth opportunities
• Employee referral bonus

At AkzoNobel we are highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace where all employees can be their best self. We strive to embrace diversity in a context of tolerance. Our talent acquisition process plays an integral part in this journey, as setting the foundations for a diverse environment. For this reason we train and educate on the implications of our Unconscious Bias in order for our TA and hiring managers to be mindful of them and take corrective actions when applicable. In our organization, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability.