Operates spray painting equipment to paint and apply industrial coatings to manufactured items (does not include vehicle painters).

• Grinding, sanding and cleaning surfaces of items to be painted; loading paint, oil, lacquer, varnish and rust-proofing agents into spray equipment; connecting hoses to spray equipment and adjusting spray nozzles to required pressure; securing items to be sprayed within spray booths or placing them onto conveyors; directing spray guns to apply even coatings; moving items to drying areas and stacking them for further painting and packaging; starting and monitoring extractor and drying fans, and heaters; cleaning nozzles, containers and hoses of equipment; may operate paint dipping baths; may mix coating solutions and regulate their temperature.

• Works either outdoors or indoors, depending upon the specific painting role.
• Can usually only work outdoors in favourable weather.
• Works with paint, lacquer and solvent fumes which often requires the use of respirators or specialised ventilation equipment if indoors.
• Worksites may be dirty, especially when preparing surfaces and applying paint.

• Light to medium physical demand. Stands constantly and frequently walks about the worksite to move equipment, supplies and carry out various tasks. Unlikely to sit other than at break times.
• Likely to stretch both up and across on a regular basis when spraying.
• Occasionally squats or crouches especially to access low level and awkward surfaces.
• Occasionally twists the body or neck for some tasks and to survey where to apply paint.
• There is constant handling of paint, solvents, adhesives and other surface preparation substances, that are likely to cause damage to skin or lungs.
• Frequently lifts and carries painting materials and equipment about the worksite to a light but sometimes medium physical demand.
• Many spray-painting tasks are repetitive in nature, especially in the use of hands and arms, spraying, sanding and preparing surfaces.
• Driving is not required.
• Employees use a range of hand, power and machine tools and equipment including paint spraying equipment and compressors, scrapers, water-blasters and sanders.
• Bends occasionally when mixing paint or cleaning down surfaces.
• Frequently climbs ladders or works on scaffold if spray-painting industrial structures. May work at height depending upon specific role/tasks.
• Mental skills necessary include practical and organisational skills.

An NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.