Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers
O*NET 51-2021.00 · SOC 51-2021
Coil Winder is a risky career choice. Median pay is $48k a year with -4% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 1,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Wind copper wire around cores to form electrical coils
- →Tape coil windings to insulate and secure wire layers
- →Apply varnish or resin to finished coils for protection
- →Check coil resistance with a meter to verify specs
- →Trim excess wire leads to required length after winding
Education & How to Get In
Coil Winder roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Coil Winder involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Coil Winder?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Coil Winder Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers is projected to decline 4% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·42% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·44% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Coil Winder make?
The median Coil Winder earns $48k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Coil Winder jobs?
Our model puts Coil Winder at 54 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 42% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 44% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Coil Winder a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 4% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 1,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Coil Winder?
Most Coil Winder roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Coil Winder?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Coil Winder career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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