The number of job openings for painting and coating machine operators may fluctuate from year to year due to cyclical changes in economic conditions. When demand for manufactured goods lessens, production may be suspended or reduced, and workers may be laid off or face a shortened workweek. Automotive painters, on the other hand, can expect relatively steady work because automobiles damaged in accidents require repair and refinishing regardless of the state of the economy. Many automotive painters employed by motor vehicle dealers and independent automotive repair shops receive a commission based on the labor cost charged to the customer. Under this method, earnings depend largely on the amount of work a painter does and how fast it is completed.
Employers frequently guarantee commissioned painters a minimum weekly salary.
Helpers and trainees usually receive an hourly rate until they become sufficiently skilled to work on commission. Trucking companies, bus lines, and other organizations that repair and refinish their own vehicles usually pay by the hour. Many painting and coating machine operators belong to unions. Most union operators work for manufacturers and the larger motor vehicle dealers. Top Other occupations in which workers apply paints and coatings include construction and maintenance painters , electrolytic metal platers , and hand painting, coating, and decorating occupations .