Paint Technician

Job overview
Paint technicians do research and development on new and existing types of paint, with the purpose of improving or changing them to the advantage of the consumer.

What do people do in this occupation?
The work of paint technicians can be divided as follows:-

• Analysis
  The chemical and physical analysis of paints, with regard to the type of elements and their quantitative composition.

For this task, paint technicians make use of highly developed apparatus and equipment.

They must have knowledge of the specific chemical and physical properties of literally thousands of different colour pigments, solvents and binding agents, as well as the machinery used in the manufacturing process.

Paint technicians also have to be able to formulate and manufacture various synthetic resins that constitute the binder of paint.

• Testing
  Before technicians can compose a formula for a certain type of paint, they need comprehensive experience and background knowledge on the properties of the different elements that are used in the formula.

The formulation forms an important part of the paint technicians' work and is closely related to finding and testing substituting elements, especially when the prices of the existing elements are rising or when certain elements become unavailable and have to be substituted.

Testing done by standards organisations assures the public of the reliability and quality of the paint.

A great variety of tests are done, such as on application, drying, prevention and resistance (against water decay and corrosion).

• Research
  Most paint technicians with experience and knowledge of the subject are concerned with research since this is a specialised field

What kinds of people are suitable for this career?
Prospective paint technicians must not be colour-blind.

A scientific aptitude, an interest in calculations and ability to reason analytically are essential.

Paint technicians must be methodical and accurate and should find laboratory work interesting

What qualifications are needed?
A BSc degree with majors in physics and chemistry, plus postgraduate qualifications in subjects directly relevant to paint technology.